2006 SELECTBOARD ARCHIVE OF MINUTES

1. Call Meeting to Order
2. Guests

   Ruth Wallman-Lake Champlain Islands Chamber of Commerce

   Annual Report

3. Minutes of November 6, 2006

   Review/Discussion/Approval

4. Public Works Foreman
5. Water
6. Cemetery Commission

7. Insurance Policy Revisions-Claudine & Jeff Williams

8. Town web site discussion
9. Town Report Selectboard Narrative
10. 2007-2008 Budget
11. Bills/Budget
12. Correspondence

    VLCT Memo regarding FY08 dues

    VLCT Memo regarding complaint filed against Blue Cross Blue Shield

    Blue Cross Blue Shield letter dated November 15, 2006

    State of Vermont Department of Health, Health Officer confirmation letter

    VLCT Memo re: 2007 Health Trust Health Insurance Renewal

13. New Business
14. Old Business

    Town Hall Vote

15. Executive Session (if necessary)
16. Adjournment

DRAFT

MINUTES OF MEETING

SELECTBOARD MEETING

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2006 

ATTENDEES:

Larry Dupont                            Marie Kilbride                          Walter Page

Joe Poquette                            Jeff Potvin                                Kevin Daignault

Ruth Miller 

INVITED GUESTS:

Brian Costello                           Chip Porter                              Kathy Richeleau

Claudine Williams 

GUESTS:

Ken Bassett                              Jim Giroux                                Tracy Giroux

David Jacobs                            Paula Knight                             Jack Miller                  

Eileen Mitchell                         Ann Porter                               Karl Raacke                

Alison Rogers                           Ira Trombley                            Bart Wilcox 

Call Meeting to Order:

Co-Chair, Marie Kilbride, called the meeting to order at 7 PM. 

Guests:

Brian Costello-Island Line Steering Committee:

Brian was recognized and outlined improvements to the bicycle routes through the Islands from South Hero to the Canadian border.  He indicated the Steering Committee has representatives from all the towns along the route and the Committee came up with recommendations brought before the Selectboards of all four towns which were endorsed by the towns.  The recommendations were then studied further by Committee to come up with more specific routes.  The three routes originally studied included the existing Champlain Bikeways; the second was the old railbed to see if there is any potential for using segments of it; and the third was a combination of on road and off road routes.  With the endorsement of all four towns, the Committee members approached a significant number of owners of the old railbed and very little potential for development of individual sections of the railbed was revealed.  Other alternatives were then studied specific to North Hero and the Committee looked at the existing natural resources in the town, as well as the desire to offer alternatives.  The alternative endorsed by the Steering Committee would connect three of the existing natural areas in the southern part of town.  This included the area west on South End Road with a connection south from there to the state owned property at Bow & Arrow Point and then north along West Shore Road, continuing along Pelots Point Road to the Pelots Point Natural Area and a connection back along Station Road to the village.   

Walter Page advised he had spent time with Brian discussing this proposal and he had concerns relating to large numbers of bicyclists riding down Pelots Point Road and

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

NOVEMBER 6, 2006

PAGE 2

 intermingling with traffic on a narrow road.  Brian further indicated that the Bicycle Ferry brings 12 to 18 riders at a time.  Another loop would be from South Alburg around to the Dunes State Park over to North Hero and winding over to Lakeview Drive up to the State Park and then back over Bridge Road.  Marie Kilbride felt that efforts to get bicyclists off Route 2 would probably save lives, in that it is probably a more heavily trafficked and faster traffic area.  Walter expressed concern in that people who reside along the routes have not been contacted for their input.   

Larry Dupont expressed concern for taking the bicyclists off Route 2 in that the route is the straightest road on the Islands.  He also questioned bicyclists being on Pelots Point Road, a narrow side road and the town park at Pelots being shared with the bicyclists.  He then questioned if public bathrooms would then have to be provided.  The people residing on Bow & Arrow Point have indicated their concerns and absolutely do not want the route to go down to their area.  Larry also pointed out that with a boy’s camp on Abnaki Road, the traffic can be backed up through the whole area when parents are picking up or dropping off children.   

Brian Costello then indicated he is asking for endorsement of the recommendations of the Committee so they can then take the project to the next step of going to a consultant to have him look at the routes and come up with specific improvements such as signage.  He would also meet with a traffic planning professional to come up with recommendations to be considered further for inclusion into the existing Champlain bikeways route.   

Walter Page indicated he would make a motion to endorse the proposed bikeways so the Board can vote on it and Jeff Potvin seconded the motion.  Larry Dupont offered an amendment to the motion that the southern portion to Bow & Arrow Point and the northern portion to Pelots Point be removed as both are dead end routes.  There being no further discussion, the motion as amended was unanimously approved (5-0). 

Brian then questioned if he could then proceed with a study to address improvements to Route 2, as well as existing routes, and come back with recommendations pertaining to safety.   The Board agreed to his proceeding with the study. 

Claudine Williams-Insurance Policy Review:

Claudine introduced her colleague, Kathleen Richeleau.  She then proceeded to review the proposed insurance policy for the policy term 11/15/06 to 11/15/07 (see attached).  It was noted a public official’s liability policy which includes employment practices liability (wrongful termination, discrimination, harassment) insurance is not included.  Approximately 65% of claims against boards are for employment practices liability.  An employee manual must be provided in order to obtain this coverage and it was noted the Town Clerk is currently working on a manual so this option would be available to the

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

NOVEMBER 6, 2006

PAGE 3

town.  The Board members expressed interest in obtaining a quote on this coverage.  The total estimated premium is $41,764, which is about $200 more than last year’s policy.  Claudine advised a Board member could sign the quote and any changes could be made after the fact, but the policy needs to be bound by the 14^th of November.  Walter Page made a motion to have Marie Kilbride sign on behalf of the Board and Joe Poquette placed a second.  All members were in agreement.  Insurance coverage will be addressed again at the next meeting of the Board.

Chip Porter-Chair, Board of Adjustment:

Marie Kilbride noted that a letter had been forwarded to Chip from Larry Dupont requesting Chip to appear before the Selectboard.  A notice was received by the Co-Chairs of the Selectboard indicating that the Board of Adjustment (BOA) will be seeking legal counsel pertaining to an appeal of a decision made by the Zoning Administrator.  Chip read his statement into the record indicating “his dismay at the tone of the summons to the Selectboard meeting”.  He noted “it is important for the Town boards to work together.  If it was not the intent of the Selectboard to be disrespectful of the Chair and members of the Board of Adjustment, then this matter may not be pursued any further”.  He further indicated “the Board of Adjustment has acted properly and within its statutory authority.  The Board has acted to insure that the best interest of the Town and the applicant are served by rendering a complete and correct decision, as well as a legal one.  The Board has tried to maintain good lines of communication with you.  The Board of Adjustment has received two requests from Hero’s Welcome as represented by Joe Bauer; an appeal of the Zoning Administrator’s decision and a request for a modification of an existing conditional use.  Those hearings are scheduled to begin this Thursday.  The matters are complicated and involved.  As a result, the Board voted unanimously to retain Richard Whittlesey in this matter in accordance with State Statute.  As a courtesy, I advised the Selectboard that we would be seeking counsel.  We believe it is important to provide the Town and the applicant with a complete and well rendered decision.  I can discuss some of the procedural issues with you tonight.  By law, I am unable to discuss the merits of either application and specifically cannot do so with the Selectboard because you are a party of interest.”   

Walter Page advised the question of Board’s pursuing legal counsel has arisen in the past and Chip advised that what makes this unusual, is that since 1971 this is the first time the Board of Adjustment has sought legal counsel.  He added that some decisions have been appealed and in those incidences the Selectboard hired legal counsel.  He also pointed out that most zoning boards hire legal counsel to address every decision and he felt the Board of Adjustment has acted properly.  Joe Poquette questioned if Chip felt the appeal wouldn’t be able to follow the normal channels to get through the BOA without an attorney present and Chip indicated his Board had voted 7-0 to hire counsel because they feel the issues are complicated enough that they want to make sure they get it right.  A discussion was then held regarding the time line of the appeal and the BOA seeking legal

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

NOVEMBER 6, 2006

PAGE 4 

counsel.  Chip stressed again that he feels the BOA has acted properly and that it’s trying to insure the best interest of the town and the applicant.   

Minutes of October 16, 2006, Review/Discussion/Approval:

Jeff Potvin made a motion to approve the minutes of October 16, 2006 and Joe Poquette seconded the motion.   

Page 5, paragraph 7, Walter Page informed that North Hero does not have a town charter and very few towns do have a charter.  The plus side of having a town charter if you think you want to make changes in what you are allowed to do under State Statute, if a charter is in place you’re a year ahead because then all you have to do is get the town’s approval for amendment to the charter and it then gets processed through the legislature and through the executive branch.  He pointed out that with the situation that exists with Listers, etc., a charter may be something that they would consider bringing to the town at the March meeting.  Walter also indicated he will be speaking with Attorney Paul Gillies concerning this same topic.  There being no further discussion, the minutes were approved (5-0) on a voice vote. 

Public Works Foreman:

            Roger Collins, water problem 168 Bridge Road:

Marie Kilbride advised an email had been received from Roger Collins regarding a water problem that exists on his property on Bridge Road.  Kevin Daignault advised he has been trying to get the Fire Department to flush the two culverts, which he believes will take care of the water on Roger’s lawn.  He has cleaned out the ditch and feels the culvert cannot be dropped and once the culvert is cleaned out the water should flow through.   

Kevin then advised the paving on Pelots Point Road and Abnaki Road has been completed and he and Robin are in the process of doing the shoulders at the current time. 

Kevin also indicated he needs two tires for the driver’s side of the big truck.  Joe felt it reasonable to purchase two recap tires to get through the winter with that truck, and the Board should really consider replacing the truck.  It was noted that the tires on the one-ton truck will probably get them through half of the winter.  

South Hero is to get back to Kevin after their meeting this date regarding roadside mowing. 

Kevin advised he met with Mike Smith this date regarding the rip-rap job on South End Road.  Mike does not believe a permit is necessary from the Army Corps of Engineers because no work would occur in the water, but would be conducted above the high water mark.  A letter of confirmation is needed before proceeding with the job.

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

NOVEMBER 6, 2006

PAGE 5

Water:

Joe Poquette advised the line replacement by Log Cabin Lane on Route 2 has been completed, as well as the section by Beaver Creek. 

Revision Resolution calling for repeal of VT statewide property tax:

Marie Kilbride advised she had asked for a change in the resolution with “so that” being deleted and “and” being inserted, but she now felt the sentence didn’t make sense.  Walter Page questioned where the resolution came from and was advised it was from the Vermont Coalition of Municipalities.  They had sent it around to Boards throughout the State asking them to vote to approve it or not.  They did not ask the Board to vote on a revised resolution and send it back.  Marie advised she didn’t have a problem with the content of it, but merely the organizational aspects of it.  She further indicated she would be happy to sign it if a couple of words got changed.  Larry Dupont made a motion that the Board accept the new revision to the resolution calling for the repeal of the Vermont statewide property tax and Joe Poquette seconded the motion.  On a voice vote the Board approved the resolution as revised (4-1).  Walter Page voted “nay”. 

Discussion-State statute regarding trash burning:

Larry Dupont advised he had received a packet of information pertaining to a new State statute, 24 V.S.A. Section 2201 which pertains to trash burning.  He has been asked to put information on the town web site to bring folks up to date on new facts on trash burning.  Joe Poquette questioned who would be enforcing the new laws and Larry Dupont advised they suggested designating an enforcement officer.  What the act did was authorize the towns to enforce it at the local level and Jack Miller advised they had instructed him as Health Officer in the enforcement of the law.  Jack reminded they are getting strict with trash burning and the only burning allowed now is of brush and leaves.  Jack is to report back at a future meeting. 

Historical Society Tax Exemption status on building:

Ruth Miller advised she had received a telephone call from Roger Kilbourne at Property Valuation advising there was a 10-year certificate of exemption issued for the Historical Society, which ran out in June of 2006.  Roger advised that the Selectboard should determine if they want to put this back on the ballot at the March meeting for voter approval.  If the Board should feel they need to pay property taxes, the property is valued at $206,000.  Tracy Giroux advised she had a letter from the Historical Society requesting the official warning for the March 2007 Town Meeting include an article which reads, “Will the voters of North Hero continue to authorize the Selectboard to make the North Hero Historical Society exempt from property tax”.   Marie Kilbride advised she had called Terry Knight at Property Valuation and Review to ask questions about the period of time desirable and if this is something the Board decides or if the voters decide.  Terry indicated if it is like the case under consideration such as the American Museum of Fly Fishing, the Historical Society property by definition could be tax exempt and suggested

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

NOVEMBER 6, 2006

PAGE 6 

Marie call Suzanne Monty, the Assistant Attorney General for the Department of Taxes, Property Valuation & Review.  Marie spoke with her and she suggested the case law around the American Museum of Fly Fishing sets up three criteria for determining whether the property of a non-profit is exempt.  Suzanne strongly recommended that Marie contact a town attorney to see if this sort of application on behalf of the North Hero Historical Society is in fact something they should be doing or if it is something that should be put on the ballot.  Marie then made a recommendation that she contact Paul Gillies for advice.  Joe Poquette felt whatever is the simplest should be pursued. 

Bills/Budget:

Bills and attached warrant were circulated for approval.  Joe Poquette asked that a letter of request be received from the Fire Department for their annual allocation.   

Correspondence:

A memo was received from VLCT regarding the status report on the 2007 Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Insurance rates.  It was noted that an average increase of 36% is expected.  Claudine Williams advised there are other markets available for health coverage and she was asked to research this further and report back to the Board 

The State of Vermont Department of Taxes reappraisal evaluation – 2006 equalization study was received through the Board of Listers and on the three equity measures the Department looks at following reappraisal, North Hero has been deemed acceptable. 

VLCT Memo-Preliminary Unemployment Rate Assessment for 2007:

At the annual meeting of the membership earlier in October, it was announced the rates effective January 1, 2007 would remain stable. 

Andrew Crossman letter-Revolt, Act 60/68:

A letter was received from Andrew Crossman, a member of the Selectboard in the town of Plymouth, urging an article be voted on at March meeting to withhold money from the state. 

VLCT Health Trust, Inc., Annual Meeting Announcement:

17^th Annual Meeting announcement of the membership of the VLCT Health Trust to be held on Friday, November 17, 2006 at the Stoweflake Resort in Stowe. 

Thank you from Cecile Myott Family gratefully acknowledging and thanking you for the flowers and kind expressions of sympathy. 

New Business:

None

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

NOVEMBER 6, 2006

PAGE 7

Old Business:

Walter Page distributed information responding to questions previously asked, which included a bid estimate from KR Adams for construction of a new town office and an estimate for tearing down and removal of the Community Hall from the site, (received via a telephone call) which came in at $59,900 from Hodgdon Bros. in Swanton. 

Executive Session:

Joe Poquette made a motion to enter into Executive Session for a personnel issue at 9:10 PM and Larry Dupont seconded the motion.   

Jeff Potvin made a motion to come out of Executive Session at 10:15 PM and Joe Poquette seconded the motion.  No action is necessary following the session. 

Adjournment:

Jeff Potvin made a motion to adjourn at 10:16 PM and Joe Poquette seconded the motion.  The meeting adjourned.

Respectfully submitted,

DRAFT

MINUTES OF MEETING

SELECTBOARD MEETING

MONDAY, OCTOBER 16 2006

ATTENDEES:

Marie Kilbride                          Larry Dupont                            Walter Page

Joe Poquette                            Jeff Potvin                                Kevin Daignault

Ruth Miller

INVITED GUESTS:

Mike Elwell                              Ross Hamilton                          Bill Hinman

John Lambert

GUESTS:

Bruce Batchelder                      Skip Dorwaldt                          Jim Giroux

Tracy Giroux                            Mary Jane Healy                      David Jacobs               

Paula Knight                             Jack Miller                               Eileen Mitchell

Karl Raacke

Call Meeting to Order:

Co-Chair, Larry Dupont, called the meeting to order at 7 PM.

Mike Elwell-Northwest VT Solid Waste District:

Mike gave an overview of the building project that will be put before the voters of the District on November 7^th, which will authorize the District to borrow up to $1,060,000 for a new recycling facility in Georgia. 

Bill Hinman-Long Term Contract approval:

Bill presented his Assessor Agreement for a term from October 1, 2006 and ending March 1, 2007.  Walter Page made a motion to sign the contract as written and Joe Poquette placed a second.  It was noted the Board of Listers had written a recommendation to the Selectboard that Hinman Associates be contracted.  On a voice vote the contract was unanimously approved (5-0) and the contract was signed.

Ross Hamilton-Emergency Management Director:

Ross advised he has served as Emergency Management Director (EMD) for North Hero for the past two years.  He then reminded that Skip Dorwaldt is the Deputy Emergency Management Director and went on to outline the purpose of an EMD and the training involved.  He noted that ever since the ice storm, the Islands have been a role model for VT.  As the Islands already have Fire Departments, Rescue Squads and Police that talk to each other on a regular basis, EMDs hesitate to get involved at that level.   The Islands are in a unique situation and as EMDs, they realize it.  They are more pointed toward organizing government aid, Red Cross, transportation, food and shelter.  EMDs would be the ones to call on for resources from outside the county and are prepared to designate and staff a Command Center.  A Rapid Response Plan has been formulated for North

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

OCTOBER 16, 2006

PAGE 2

Hero in the past and a draft of an Emergency Management Phone Tree was circulated.  Any suggested changes are welcome and should be forwarded to the Town Clerk.  Ross then indicated North Hero will probably never be ready for every type of emergency, but will be as prepared as can be and added he felt North Hero is about halfway there and gaining and is probably the best prepared of the Islands.

John Lambert-Zoning Fees:

John advised he had changes to the zoning fees that have been discussed at the Planning Commission level; namely, the accessory building fee is recommended to be reduced to $50 for the first 100 square feet and anything beyond that would be an additional $.20 a square foot.  He then informed that the Appeals fee was not addressed.  It was $50, but the Planning Commission recommends a fee of $100, which includes appeals only at the Town level.  Marie Kilbride made a motion to approve the fee changes and Joe Poquette placed a second.  On a voice vote the motion was unanimously approved (5-0).

                        -Zoning Bylaws, Section 240 approval:

John informed that off island district, Section 240 of the Zoning Bylaws, was being treated differently than the remainder of the Town, in that at the current time if you are a resident of Butler Island and you wished to acquire a building permit, you would have to go before the Board of Adjustment automatically.  The proposed change would not make the hearing before the Board necessary, as long as the set backs could be met.  John pointed out that every time a property owner would desire to make a change, the Zoning Administrator would have to go out to the Island and post a notice on the property.  Once the variance was obtained, another trip would have to be made to post the building permit and then a trip for inspection for a certificate of compliance.  If there was a septic issue, yet another visit would have to be made for a septic certificate of compliance.  The proposed change would eliminate B. of Section 240, “No development or construction without a conditional use permit from the Board of Adjustment”. 

He advised the Planning Commission has already had a hearing regarding this issue and the Commission has approved the change.  It is now being presented to the Selectboard for approval to be warned for a public hearing and then final approval by the Selectboard.  Joe Poquette made a motion to warn the recommended change and Jeff Potvin seconded the motion.  On a voice vote approval was unanimous (5-0).

                        -Regional Planning Commission:

John then gave a brief overview on what the Northwest Regional Planning Commission does to serve the communities of Franklin and Grand Isle Counties.   

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

OCTOBER 16, 2006

PAGE 3 

Larry Dupont advised he had been filling the position of TAC representative and it was impossible for him to attend their meetings held on Thursdays.  He asked John if he would bring a recommendation to the Board for someone to serve in that capacity. 

Minutes of October 2, 2006, Review/Discussion/Approval:

On page 2, paragraph 2, Walter advised he had met with Brian Costello and they had reviewed the status of the Islands Steering Committee and in closing Walter had suggested Brian not attend the meeting of the Selectboard on October 16^th, but did ask him to attend the next meeting to be held November 6^th.   

Page 2, paragraph 3, Joe Poquette advised Mike Burke had delivered a letter advising he had no problem with the roof drains being hooked in.  An in depth letter was received regarding the site visit.  Jim Giroux was advised he could have Joe’s copy of Mike’s report. 

Page 3, paragraph 2, “50,000 in the budget for paving”….  Kevin advised he had a letter from Whitcomb’s advising they could provide a bid on the project, but would not be able to do the actual paving until next spring.  Pike Industries gave a bid and indicated they would start the project within a week to ten days to do the Pelot’s Point and Abnaki Road projects.  The bid from Pike totals $44,844.30 and Joe reminded that is a generalization of their cost as the bid is per ton and if four trucks are on the road to finish the project and the limit is reached, they would not send the trucks back.  He further advised he did inform Kevin it was unacceptable to wait until spring so he should go ahead and get Pike to do it.  The contract does need a signature.  Marie Kilbride made a motion to have Joe sign the contract and Walter Page seconded the motion.  On a voice vote the motion was approved (5-0) and Joe Poquette signed the contract. 

Jeff Potvin made a motion to approve the minutes and Joe Poquette seconded the motion.  The minutes were approved (5-0). 

Public Works Foreman:
Kevin Daignault advised the trees at the Library have been cleaned out. 

The trailer previously stored on the Miller property has been moved to the School. 

Kevin then requested an Executive Session. 

Water:

Joe Poquette advised the new section of pipe on the north end along Route 2 is completed.  He also advised Alburgh is still negotiating with the State on the water project.   

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

OCTOBER 16, 2006

PAGE 4 

The new Water Operator started this date and the changeover period is 60 days with the existing company. 

Resolution Calling for the Repeal of the VT Statewide Property Tax:

Larry Dupont advised several resolutions had been forwarded to the Board membership and he felt it was worth placing this on the agenda to discuss.  He then read into the record the latest one received (copy attached), which is not connected to any political party, but was forwarded by the Vermont Coalition of Municipalities.   

Marie Kilbride then reported on her attending the annual Town Meeting of the Vermont League of Cities & Towns approximately 10 days prior.  First on their agenda was wording that would cause the League to bring to the legislature a bill that would eliminate Act 60/68, substituting in its place something that is more workable.  She indicated many towns participated and the vote was not a close vote. 

Marie Kilbride expressed concern with the Resolution in that it seems to put first the repeal of the statewide property tax so that a more fair and equitable mechanism can be developed and it seemed to her that Act 68 “cannot be repealed with nothing to substitute for it”.   

After a further discussion, Joe Poquette made a motion to sign the Resolution and Walter Page seconded the motion.  Jeff Potvin indicated he wanted to find out where the Resolution came from and have the opportunity to ask some questions about it before voting to sign it.  On a voice vote approval was given with 3 members of the Board voting to sign the Resolution.  Jeff Potvin voted “nay” and Marie Kilbride abstained. 

Second Class Liquor License approval – Holiday Harbor Motel:

Joe Poquette made a motion to recess the Selectboard meeting and enter into a meeting of the Liquor Control Board.  Jeff Potvin seconded the motion and the Board entered into a meeting of the Liquor Control Board at 8:14 PM.   

Larry Dupont advised a second class liquor license has been received from Bruce Batchelder for the Holiday Harbor Motel.  Jeff Potvin made a motion to approve the license and Joe Poquette seconded the motion.  There being no discussion, the motion was unanimously approved on a voice vote (5-0).   

Joe Poquette made a motion to come out of Liquor Control at 8:17 PM and Marie Kilbride seconded the motion.  After a unanimous vote, the Selectboard came out of Liquor Control and returned to the scheduled agenda of the Board. 

Budget 2007-2008:

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

OCTOBER 16, 2006

PAGE 5 

Larry Dupont advised he had this put on the agenda to begin thinking about working on next year’s budget.  After discussion, it was determined the Board would wait until a little closer to the time to work on the budget and a form letter would be sent to the various Town departments asking for their budget input.  It was determined a work session would be scheduled to occur just prior to a Selectboard meeting to address budgeting.  A request for narratives has been received from the Board of Auditors with a deadline indicated of December 1^st.  Larry Dupont received approval to start a draft narrative from the Board. 

Bills/Budget:   

Bills and attached warrant were circulated for approval.   

Ruth Miller expressed concern regarding the number of windows being repaired and painted at Camp Ingalls.  Discussion ensued about the possibility of adding windows to the east side of the building allowing for ventilation.  Joe Poquette suggested meeting with the members of their Committee to review their plans at some point in the future. 

Informational Brochure approval:

Walter Page made a motion to deal with the brochure in a working session at the end of the meeting as he felt it would take some time to review.  Joe Poquette seconded the motion which was unanimously approved (5-0). 

Correspondence:

VT Public Interest Research Group:A letter was received pertaining to mercury exposure in fish.  After discussion it was determined the Fish & Game Department do an excellent job and a motion was made to table the request by Jeff Potvin and Joe Poquetee seconded the motion which was approved on a voice vote. 

Champlain Islands Parent-Child Centers:

An informational letter and invitation was received from the Campaign Co-Chairs to a Service Recognition Evening to be held on October 28^th. 

New Business:

Walter Page advised he had had a discussion with Bill Hinman about Listers and Town Charters and he requested permission to determine first if Town Hero has a Town Charter and secondly he would like to pursue a discussion with Paul Gillies as to the merits of town charters.  He further indicated there are issues pertaining to Pelot’s Recreation Area which involve animal issues and leash laws. 

Old Business:

None

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

OCTOBER 16, 2006

PAGE 6 

Informational Brochure approval:

A discussion was held regarding the contents of the brochure and all were in agreement that Marie would implement the suggested changes and then email the corrections to the other members of the Board for their approval by October 18th.  Marie Kilbride also distributed a listing of proposed covenants and Board members were asked to add to the list.   

Executive Session (if necessary):

Jeff Potvin made a motion to enter into Executive Session at 9:20 PM  and Marie Kilbride seconded the motion.  The motion was approved to go into Executive Session for a personnel matter. 

Walter Page made a motion to come out of Executive Session at 10 PM and Marie Kilbride seconded the motion.  No action is to be taken as a result of Executive Session. 

Adjournment:

Joe Poquette made a motion to adjourn and Jeff Potvin seconded the motion.  The meeting adjourned at 10:02 PM.

Respectfully submitted, 

DRAFT

MINUTES OF MEETING

SELECTBOARD MEETING

MONDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2006

ATTENDEES:

Marie Kilbride                          Walter Page                             Joe Poquette
Jeff Potvin                                Kevin Daignault                        Ruth Miller 

ABSENT:
Larry Dupont 

INVITED GUESTS:
Gordon Lowe                           Roger Poquette                        Carol Poquette
Louis Dorwaldt, Jr.                   Dwayne Cormier                      Paula Knight 

GUESTS:
See attached list. 

Call Meeting to Order:
Co-Chair, Marie Kilbride, called the meeting to order at 7 PM. 

Gordon Lowe – Presentations:
Walter Page presented Gordon with a plaque and a personalized letter signed by the members of the Selectboard recognizing his many years of dedicated service to the Town of North Hero.   

Bill Hinman – Long Term Contract approval:
Marie then advised Bill Hinman was scheduled for approval of his long term contract.  Walter advised he had spoken with Bill earlier in the day and Bill was unable to attend the Selectboard meeting and he asked that he be put back on the agenda for the next meeting of the Board.  Walter further advised he had spoken with Bill about costs as specified in the contract.  He then distributed a cost analysis report (copy attached) he had compiled and reviewed it with the Board.  It would appear that ballpark figures over a four-year cycle with including one reappraisal would be comparable.  He also pointed out that cost is not the only reason a contract is being discussed with Bill.   

Another issue is whether or not the Board would want to contract with Bill through the end of the fiscal year or do one through the end of March and revisit the issue at that  time.  Aside from the cost issue, Walter expressed the thought that the days of lay people from the community serving as Listers are really gone.  He did point out the current Board of Listers is recommending Hinman & Associates be contracted as the town assessor.  He also noted that other towns have opted to change their charters and not utilize Listers, but hire assessors.  After further discussion, it was determined the Board would like to have Bill meet with them at their next meeting and address the contract at that time. 

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING
OCTOBER 2, 2006
PAGE 2 

A further discussion ensued regarding the current year budget and funds that would be available for payment of the contract.  Joe Poquette asked if there was a deficit or a surplus at the end of the fiscal year and Ruth Miller advised there was a surplus, but she didn’t have the figure with her at the meeting.  Joe then reminded that a budget is really just a guideline and legally the town does not have the right to have a savings account.  Walter felt that a great deal of attention needs to be paid in constructing the budget for the next fiscal year.   

Brian Costello – Island Line Steering Committee Recommendations:
Walter Page advised Brian is not attending the meeting, largely because he was asked not to attend.  Definitive statements have not yet been received from Brian as to what his Committee is recommending.  The recommendations received came out of a meeting where they did not have a quorum and the map forwarded through email has errors in it.  Walter then advised there are several reasons why he felt Brian should not be presenting to the Board and he has arranged a meeting with Brian in the near future to review exactly what it is he thinks the Committee wants to recommend and that it be distributed to the full Board before a meeting.  The issue was tabled until the time of the next meeting. 

Minutes of September 18, 2006, Review/Discussion/Approval:
Walter Page made a motion to accept the minutes and Marie Kilbride seconded the motion.   

On page 3, last paragraph, Joe Poquette questioned if a decision had been made pertaining to the Kenny property water problem or did they agree to wait for a letter from Mike Burke.  Jim Giroux advised he had been informed by Mike he had a water run-off problem and approval had been received to tie his water problem into the surface drains which belong to the town.  Joe then advised he didn’t think there was any way to do any digging into the underground drain without clarification that the digging isn’t in violation of waste water laws.  Joe further advised he is still waiting for a written report back from Mike Burke for further consideration and Joe was asked to contact Mike as to the status of the report. 

There being no further discussion of the minutes, on a voice vote the minutes were unanimously approved (4-0). 

Public Works Foreman:
Vermont Offender Work Programs fees – Kevin Daignault advised the cost per day for the offender program is now $150 per week to mow and trim all the cemeteries and the bill distributed for discussion is actually for a four-week period during the month of July.  Joe Poquette indicated he seemed to remember the fees being minimal for the program and if the fees are now up to that amount, perhaps the town should look into the work

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING
OCTOBER 2, 2006
PAGE 3 

being done inhouse or put the mowing out to bid once again.  It was suggested this issue be brought up again when compiling the next budget. 

Kevin then advised two roads in town need resurfacing; namely, the first section of Pelots Point Road and a section of Abnaki Road. Another road that was pointed out as needing attention is North End Road West.  Joe felt the town should notify a paving company of how much money the town has to spend and either then drag shim it and go as far as you can or pick a section of road and get it done.  It was noted there is $50,000 in the budget for paving and apparently it is customary to do paving in September or October.  Jeff Potvin felt Kevin should schedule the work to be done.  Pelots Point Road should have the holes filled ahead of time and the road could then be capped.   Also discussed was the condition of Lakeview Drive, along with ditching and culvert issues in the area.  It was noted a yearly bid is received from paving companies and Kevin advised Whitcomb’s had come in with the best price.  Joe advised it would be a little more expensive to drag shim Abnaki Road.   It was agreed that the sections on Abnaki Road and Pelots will be done, at least as much as the town can afford at the current time.   

Kevin advised he had pulled stumps along West Shore Road and the area now needs to be ditched from Dubuque’s south on the east side.  He anticipates the west side will also have to be ditched once the stumps are pulled there and he feels the job cannot be done with the backhoe. 

Roadside mowing needs to be done for the fall, but the mower on the backhoe isn’t going to get the job done.  Kevin asked if he could rent a mower to do the fall mowing and Joe noted the backhoe did a good job of cutting the brush back on West Shore Road, but it doesn’t work well to do roadside mowing as the ground speed is too fast for the mower.  Joe recommended that a mower be rented for the fall mowing and all were in agreement. 

Kevin then advised the trees at the Town library are scheduled to be trimmed back next Monday. 

Marie Kilbride questioned if there were other guests in the audience who wished to be recognized and Jack Miller indicated he had an issue he would like to present to the Board and pointed out he is researching the cost of a sign to be placed on the North Hero School grounds, much like the one currently at the Grand Isle School.  He advised he would expect to be coming back before the Board at a future meeting with further information.  Along that line, Joe Poquette pointed out the shape the signs are in on both ends of Town and felt this should be addressed.  Ruth Miller reminded that locked display boxes were discussed and approved at one point for posting of town notices, but no follow-up has occurred.  Walter Page asked if Jack would be interested in building the boxes and he indicated he could put something together. 

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING
OCTOBER 2, 2006
PAGE 4 

Resignation/Appointment of Fire Warden – Dwayne Cormier:
Dwayne Cormier was recognized and indicated he was in attendance on behalf of the Fire Department, as it was their understanding there was to be an appointment of a Fire Warden.  Marie suggested the agenda be changed to discuss the resignation/appointment of a Fire Warden at that time rather than further down the agenda.  It was noted by Marie Kilbride that Warren (Butch) Robare has submitted a letter of resignation from the Fire Warden position and Butch indicated he has spoken with Todd Keyworth, owner of Harborside Market who would be willing to accept the position.  Dwayne advised he has a handbook for Todd and the Fire Department will work further with him to familiarize him with the Fire Warden duties.  Dwayne also pointed out that four other individuals from the town can be appointed to share the position to cover during Todd’s absence for any given reason.  Ruth Miller advised that Ron Tier and Michael Murdock were two names that had been brought to her attention.  Joe Poquette made a motion to appoint Todd Keyworth to the position and if other individuals such as Ron and Mike are willing to take the appointment, he would recommend their appointment as well.  Jeff seconded the motion and on a voice vote the motion was unanimously approved (4-0).  Dwayne will research other people in the community who would be interested in serving and notify the Board. 

Water:
Jeff Potvin questioned what is occurring with the Alburgh project and Joe advised Alburgh is still involved in meetings with the State.  

Reappointment of Health Officer:
Marie Kilbride advised she had a letter from Jack Miller indicating his interest in serving in the capacity of Health Officer for the next year.  A letter has also been received from the State of Vermont Department of Health advising the town’s Health Officer’s term of office is due to expire on October 31, 2006.  Joe Poquette made a motion to have Jack Miller continue as Health Officer and Jeff Potvin placed a second.  On a voice vote the motion was unanimously approved (4-0). 

Jack then informed he had been to a recent meeting of the Department of Health which addressed the pandemic issue and the officials indicated they need to have the names of alternate members who would represent the Selectboard if the elected official should become incapacitated.  A form will be sent to each Board member asking for the name of a replacement.  The alternate would only act if there was a pandemic situation and the Board member is incapacitated.   

Approval of October 28, 2006 as Informational Meeting date:
Walter Page made a motion to accept October 28^th as the Informational Meeting date and Joe Poquette seconded the motion.  On a voice vote the date was unanimously approved (4-0).

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING
OCTOBER 2, 2006
PAGE 5 

Official Warning for 11/7/06 election:
Walter Page noted that the corrections noted previously were made and Paul Gillies approved the corrections.  Larry Dupont signed the warning before leaving town.  The warning was signed by the Board members in attendance. 

Informational Brochure:
Walter Page indicated he had quickly reviewed the brochure and commented on the information currently included in that he isn’t sure that level of detail is necessary.  The answers will need to be available at the Informational Meeting, but he isn’t sure it needs to be included in an informational brochure.  Marie reminded the brochure is a “first draft”.  Jeff Potvin felt the level of detail is necessary.  Marie felt the information should be provided, as not everyone will be able to attend the informational meeting and they will be making decisions not fully informed.  However, by including information in a brochure, at least they will have the basic details of the options.  Walter stressed that the question to be answered by the vote is whether or not the voters want to save the Town Hall and that’s why the same numbers are being used on both options.  If that is the case, then he felt the Board should not get into providing a lot of numbers in the brochure which relate to construction costs.  Joe felt the statement included which reads “The Selectboard proposes to do what many families do when they want to buy a house; that is, they decide on how much they can afford to spend and then go out to see what they can get or build for that amount” is an excellent statement.  He did point out that there should be a statement included indicating the previous bond vote isn’t possible to do because of the secondary waste water field, but he felt the brochure in it’s current version is a very good start.   

After further discussion, it was determined the brochure should be ready to mail by mid October.  Walter will email any further comments that he has for consideration.  He stressed this should be seen as an end to a process that was put in place several months ago and whatever direction the voters approve, the process will then proceed in that direction.  Joe reminded the Board will not be able to answer all the questions to everyone’s satisfaction and not everyone will be happy with the answers.   

Jeff Potvin advised he had made inquiry into obtaining the State complex on Station Road and was informed that facility would not be available to the Town.  

Marie will work on a second draft and forward it to Ruth for distribution to the other Board members and approval will be sought at the next Selectboard meeting on the 16^th of October. 

Bills/Budget:
The bills and attached warrant were circulated for approval. 

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING
OCTOBER 2, 2006
PAGE 6 

Correspondence:
Marie Kilbride advised a memo from the Vermont League of Cities & Towns concerning reforming the procedure for funding education in the State of Vermont was received.  They are indicating what is currently in place is a failed system and they are proposing to their membership to restrict the State’s ability to use the property taxes collected for anything other than locally determined education costs; give local voters the tools to provide the best education in the most affordable manner; replace a significant portion of the education property tax with alternate State taxes; assure to the extent that property taxes and the current system are used to fund education and the tax base is as large as possible to keep the tax rates as low as possible; and as long as the State insists on imposing a State property tax to fund education, relieve locals of the obligation to administer it.  A vote of the membership is scheduled for October 5^th at the Barre Municipal Civic Center.  After discussion, it was determined Walter would check his schedule to determine if he can be the delegate from North Hero.  If he cannot attend, Skip Dorwaldt would be approached and if he cannot attend, Marie Kilbride will make arrangements to attend.   

New Business:
None 

Old Business:
Joe questioned if The Johnson Company had been notified to proceed with the fall landfill testing and Ruth verified she had called them. 

Executive Session (if necessary):
None 

Adjournment:
Joe Poquette made a motion to adjourn, Walter Page placed a second and the meeting adjourned at 8:30 PM.

 Respectfully submitted,  

DRAFT

MINUTES OF MEETING

SELECTBOARD MEETING

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2006

ATTENDEES:

Larry Dupont                            Marie Kilbride                          Walter Page

Kevin Daignault                        Ruth Miller

GUESTS:

See attached.

Call Meeting to Order:

Larry Dupont, Co-Chair, called the meeting to order at 7 PM.

Guests:

Terry Schaefer, Co-Chair, of the North Hero Water Board was recognized and provided an update of what has been happening within the Water Department.  He advised emergency work has been done on the North End due to high acidity in the soils causing the pipes to be eaten from the outside in, resulting in six water leaks, three of them in the Beaver Creek area, with one of them dumping about 500 gallons a minute.  After repairing two of the three, it was determined at an Emergency Meeting of the Water Board, that 1100 feet of pipe needs to be replaced, which would amount to approximately $30,000 including labor and materials.  Some inquiring was done pertaining to cost of materials and labor and Bushey Excavating was subsequently contracted and they work right out of Poquette’s pit, which reduces travel time.  Other areas which will need to be addressed in the near future include one near Log Cabin Lane and the other on Blockhouse Point Road.

Terry then indicated the Water Board would like to hire a new Water Plant Operator.  Currently Simon’s Operations Systems (SOS) is contracted.   Terry has negotiated with two licensed Class IV applicants for a 40-hour a week position.  Comparing the two applicants dollar-per-dollar and comparing SOS, it turns out that the Water Department would be spending about $5,000 more with an advantage being it would be for 40-hours a week, not as currently done with 20 hours a week.  The current Operator has a Class II operator’s license and the plan is to get a Class IV.  The chosen applicant is an experienced plant operator and the plan is to hire him and severe relations with SOS.  Terry advised he has put together a very descriptive job description and has based the contract on the description.  He then outlined the benefits for the Operator, who would be a Town employee.  It was noted that the Town would pay for the education necessary to maintain a current Operator’s license.  Jack Miller brought up that at the current time, North Hero does not have a licensed waste water individual and Terry explained the filtration system has five backwash tanks and North Hero should have a licensed Operator for that function.  A discussion ensued as to whether or not the Water Board can hire without Selectboard approval.  However, as this was not a warned article on the agenda for this meeting, it was determined this should appear on the next meeting

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

SEPTEMBER 18, 2006

PAGE 2

agenda.  In the meanwhile, Terry will review the bylaws and determined if Selectboard  approval is necessary or if the Water Board can approve hiring of a Plant Operator.

The question of water quality, a concern of many water users over the course of the last few weeks, was raised and Terry advised it probably was not due to the leaks that are being dealt with, but believe it is more of a water chemical reaction.  A recent change was made from chlorination to a potassium treatment and what that seems to be doing is trading one problem for another.  It is anticipated an intense flushing will be completed this fall to eliminate the problem.

Larry advised that Bill Hinman was on the agenda for presentation of his long term contract.  The Board of Listers submitted a letter recommending Hinman Associates be contracted for the long term and Larry Dupont read their recommendation into the record (see attached).  Larry then indicated he had met with Bill and gone over his proposed contract questioning what the bottom line would be for cost.  The Town would agree to pay Bill a fixed fee of $4,000 upon signing the contract and $47/hour for up to 156 hours per year and $31.50/hour for the Assistant Assessor for up to 416 hours per year.  Larry did question Bill as to cost for the BCA hearings and Bill indicated an additional $3,000 to $3,500 would be incurred as some of his time is included in the short term contract previously signed.  Walter Page indicated he had reviewed the contract in detail and it was as previously outlined by Bill.  After further discussion, it was felt the contract should be for the term of October 1, 2006 through June 30, 2007 and approval of the Assessor Agreement should be placed on the agenda for the next Selectboard meeting.  The question arose as to whether or not North Hero would have to pay in the future for a townwide reappraisal or if Bill would keep the data up to date.  It was determined Bill is in the Town Office on Monday afternoons preparing for BCA hearings, which begin at 5 p.m., and Board members could meet with him for a few minutes for clarification.

Minutes of August 14, 2006, August 22, 2006, September 7, 2006:

Walter Page made a motion to approve the minutes pertaining to all three dates and Marie Kilbride seconded the motion.  On a voice vote the minutes were approved (3-0).

In reviewing the minutes of August 14, 2006, page 2, paragraph 4, Larry Dupont advised he and Marie had conducted the employee evaluation pertaining to Robin Rousseau.  Page 4, paragraph 3, under the Delinquent Tax Collector report, Marie questioned if a decision had been made to publish delinquent property taxes and delinquent water accounts in the Town Report and Ruth Miller advised it would have to presented back to the Selectboard for further consideration as to placement on the official warning for the March meeting.

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

SEPTEMBER 18, 2006

PAGE 3

The minutes of August 22, 2006 were accepted as written with Marie Kilbride noting that given the range of the conversation that was held, she felt “Ruth did a wonderful job in putting this together”. 

The minutes of September 7, 2006, page 2, last paragraph, fourth line from the bottom of the page “Also included should be Mike Dugan’s statement that the cost of putting a Town Office and Town Hall in the same building would be monetarily impossible”.  Using the word “undesirable” or “unfeasible” instead of “impossible” would be more appropriate. 

Public Works Foreman:

Kevin Daignault advised that ditching and culvert repair had been completed at the Sandra Spiegel residence on Bridge Road.  It was noted that Sherry Siebenaler had approached the Town last year about her water problem on Bridge Road and Sue Maple will probably continue to have water problems even following the installation of a culvert. After further discussion, it was decided Joe Poquette and Jeff Potvin should look at the area and try to come up with a solution for the problem area. 

Kevin also advised that the brush has been cut back, the ditches cleaned out and shoulders are being put in on West Shore Road. 

The school generator recently had an internal fire in the circuit boards, which was repaired by Dwayne Cormier.  However, the battery in the generator needs to be replaced.

Water:

Previously discussed under “Guests”.

Kenny property water problem:

Larry Dupont advised Joe Poquette is the individual who was working with Mike Burke on this issue and to date no letter had been received from Mike giving input into the problem.  Jim Giroux advised Mike had indicated it was a water run-off problem and Jim had asked if the water problem could be tied into the surface drains, which belong to the Town. Mike indicated on his visit he would have no problem with that.  Larry indicated that Joe should coordinate with Mike to get a report back for consideration at the next Selectboard meeting.  However, Jim felt it had been almost two months and he really wanted to take care of the drainage problem and would be doing the work himself.  After further discussion, it was felt Jim should be allowed to work on the problem and Walter Page made a motion to allow Jim to lay drainage tiles as described by Mike Burke and Marie Kilbride seconded the motion.  On a voice vote the motion was approved (3-0).

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

SEPTEMBER 18, 2006

PAGE 4

Appointment of Cemetery Commissioner:

Larry Dupont noted that Gordon Lowe has resigned from the Cemetery Commission as he is moving to Wake Robin in Shelburne this fall.  The Commission has recommended the appointment of Michael Tranby, who would serve until the time of the March meeting.  Marie Kilbride made a motion to appoint Michael Tranby to the vacancy and Walter Page seconded the motion.  On a voice vote, Michael was unanimously approved as Commissioner (3-0). 

Approval of Landfill Monitoring Well Sampling:

A letter was received from The Johnson Company advising their company is scheduling their fall monitoring well sampling and asked if North Hero wishes this done again this year.  Walter Page made a motion to approve the sampling be done and Marie Kilbride seconded the motion, which was unanimously approved on a voice vote.

Approval of Lease Agreement:

Walter Page made a motion to sign the Lease Agreement pertaining to the Town Office for another year.  Marie Kilbride seconded the motion and the motion was unanimously approved (3-0).  Marie signed the Agreement on behalf of the Town.

Approval of Town Hall access form:

After review (see attached) Marie Kilbride made a motion to approve the access form and Walter Page seconded the motion.  The form was approved on a voice vote (3-0).

Discussion & approval of Official Warning for 11/7/06 election:

Larry Dupont noted that Paul Gillies had been contacted and confirmed his view that “the proposed articles conform to Vermont’s law on bonding and voting.  The form follows 24 V.S.A. Section 1758.  The sole issue is whether the transfer of ownership fits with the construction of a new building.  In the selectboard’s view, the two are inextricably linked, and so the article is proper, because it reflects precisely how the board believes this decision should be made.”    Larry then read into the record the articles to appear on the Official Warning for the election.  It was suggested that the word “new” in article one be deleted and it was questioned why the wording wasn’t included after “…for the purpose of transferring ownership of the Town Hall and land… to a non-profit or coalition of non-profits…”.  After further discussion about the structure of the two articles, Walter Page made a motion to approve the Official Warning as amended and Marie Kilbride seconded the motion, which was approved on a voice vote (3-0).  The Warning will be changed to reflect the changes and then be forwarded to Paul Gillies for his confirmation.  It was noted by Walter Page that Mike Dugan is updating (in conjunction with Ken

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

SEPTEMBER 18, 2006

PAGE 5

Adams) the estimate costs for building a single story building, as well as getting a current price for demolishing the Town Hall.  

The timeframe for dates of procedure for the bond vote was presented by Ruth Miller.  She indicated the Official Warning would need to be posted somewhere between September 28^th and October 6^th.  The Official Warning would need to appear in The Islander on October 24, 2006 and the Informational Meeting was suggested to occur on Saturday, October 28^th at 2 p.m. at the North Hero School.  It was determined after a discussion the Warning would be published for one week in The Islander and put on the Town web site as well.  The Information Meeting will be scheduled on October 28^th dependent upon availability of the School Gym. 

Correspondence:

Bob Ayers, Library Trustee, memo regarding water heater:

An email was received from Bob Ayers confirming the cost of replacing the library water heater and the additional work that had to be accomplished to the piping in the basement.

North Hero Planning Commission response to Ruth Wallman re: horses bathing in the Lake:  A copy of a letter addressed to Ruth Wallman from Jack Miller and John Lambert of Zoning and Planning confirms that no appropriate area could be found for the horses to bathe in the Lake and a conditional use permit should be requested with a hearing before the Zoning Board of Adjustment to address this issue if pursued in the future.

North Hero Planning Commission response to Town Hall concern:

A response from John Lambert, Chair of the North Hero Planning Commission agrees with the Selectboard that the Town Hall is a work in progress and does not constitute abandonment of a structure.

Memo of concern from Lovi Odette Galego:

After discussion, it was determined a brief letter would be written thanking her for her letter and concern.

New Business:

Larry Dupont asked if the Selectboard would like to be compensated at this point with half of their yearly stipend for 2006-2007 and Board members agreed.  In a conversation with Terry Schaefer, he indicated the Water Board would also like to do the same at this point in time. 

Old Business:

None

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

SEPTEMBER 18, 2006

PAGE 5

Executive Session (if necessary):

Not necessary.

Adjournment:

Walter Page made a motion to adjourn and Marie Kilbride placed a second.  The meeting adjourned at 8:30 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

DRAFT

MINUTES OF MEETING

SELECTBOARD WORK SESSION

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2006

ATTENDEES:

Larry Dupont                            Marie Kilbride                          Walter Page

Joe Poquette                            Jeff Potvin                                Ruth Miller

GUEST:

Eileen Mitchell

Call Meeting to Order:

Larry Dupont, Co-Chair, called the meeting to order at 7:31 AM.

Town Office Survey Discussion:

Larry then advised that Attorney Paul Gillies had suggested the Board should spend some more time working out details of a bond vote and if further questions arose, Paul would be available by telephone.  He further advised a copy of the Town Office Survey was forwarded to Paul for him to come up with the wording for a future bond vote which includes two articles and Paul forwarded wording of the two articles in a memo dated September 6, 2006 (see attached). 

A discussion then ensued as to where the Board left off in their previous work session.  It was decided that option one on the Town Survey was not feasible for monetary reasons and attention was then turned to the next highest vote getter, option four, along with option two to be addressed for a future vote.  A question arose as to whether or not a bonded indebtedness vote could also include an option to give the building away and be a legal question that also meets State statutes.  It was Walter Page’s belief that another survey had to be taken, which would then be followed by a vote for bonded indebtedness.  A dollar amount for the options was discussed and it was felt the dollar amount for each option should remain the same with the amount being a “not to exceed amount”.   The possibility of another opinion survey was discussed, which would not include a dollar amount versus warning the two articles for a vote in November, compiling an informational brochure to be mailed to the voters and scheduling an informational meeting prior to the vote.

Marie Kilbride reminded that previously the Secretary of State had advised against putting an opinion question with a bond question on the same ballot as they don’t carry the same weight.  Two questions can be put forth on the same ballot and then go for the bond vote at a later time.  Marie suggested that two questions be put to the community to get the sense of what the community wants and then go for a bond vote later.

Marie also expressed a desire to get a statement from Mike Dugan confirming that placing offices and the Town Hall in the same building is not feasible based upon cost. 

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD WORK SESSION

SEPTEMBER 7, 2006

PAGE 2

After further discussion, it was decided a telephone call should be placed to Attorney Paul Gillies for clarification as to the wording of proposed articles as outlined by Paul.   Larry Dupont read the article, “Shall the Selectboard transfer ownership of the existing Town Hall and property along with all liabilities and future indebtedness to another party and seek to construct an office space at an alternative site at a cost not to exceed $________.”  The question was then asked if a legal bond vote could be done with the two questions being in the article; namely, transferring ownership of the existing Town Hall and getting approval to spend an amount not to exceed $______.    Paul then indicated the two questions can be put together in an article if the plan is to link the two questions.  In other words you would not build unless you give up the existing building.  He then indicated it is legal to word an article in that manner.  He clarified in that the voters would be giving authority to proceed with a plan, but it would not be a mandate.  Putting the two together effectively represents what the Board wants to do and it is legal and gives the Board liberty to pursue the option.  He added that voters are giving approval for the bond and the bond proceeds might be used for the legal work to do the conveyance. 

Marie Kilbride and Walter Page both questioned why article #1 doesn’t mention giving the existing building to a non-profit or a coalition of non-profits and Paul indicated that was an oversight and he would fix that and forward a revised copy. 

Concern was then expressed by the Board in that Paul’s legal opinion seemed to be different from what was expressed in an earlier opinion.  It was suggested that once Paul’s revised wording is received, a request be made he put in writing that the wording constitutes a legal bond vote that meets all State statutes. 

Walter Page then raised the issue of the dollar amount to be included in the proposed articles.  Joe Poquette pointed out that the town of Fairfield spent $450,000 and have a very nice Town Office.  It was stressed that even though approval is obtained to bond up to $700,000, it doesn’t mean that amount will be spent. 

Marie Kilbride indicated she would be willing to work on a brochure to be distributed to the voters, which would include a comment that the cost of placing a Town Office and the Town Hall in the same building exceeded cost expectations so the next most popular option is being put forth.  Marie also suggested that covenants should be addressed pertaining to turning the Town Hall over to any group.  Joe Poquette felt that a statement indicating why a Town Office cannot be built directly behind the existing Town Hall, explaining the results of the monitoring wells should be included in the brochure.  Also included should be Mike Dugan’s statement that the cost of putting a Town Office and Town Hall in the same building would be monetarily impossible.   The question was also brought up as to what would happen if the non-profit(s) could not accomplish a restoration of the Town Hall.  Jeff Potvin stressed putting in the brochure what the impact

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD WORK SESSION

SEPTEMBER 7, 2006

PAGE 3

will be on property taxes in the future.  Marie and Larry were tasked with compiling an informational brochure with input from all the Board members and it then be forwarded  to Ruth Miller, who will then forward it to all the Board members.

The timeframe of a vote being conducted on November 7^th was reviewed in that Paul indicated the warning needs to be posted at least 30 days before November 7 (which is October 8) and no earlier than 40 days (September 28), and printed in the official newspaper at least 10 days before the vote.   As both Joe and Jeff are unable to attend the next meeting of the Selectboard on the 18^th of September, it was determined the official warning would be readied and both Joe and Jeff would sign it before the meeting on the 18th and a motion would then be made on the 18^th to sign the warning and all in attendance would then sign. 

Ruth was asked to gather the specific dates of the procedure for the September 18^th meeting.  The question arose if any professionals would be invited to a public informational meeting and it was determined that question would be addressed at a later date.  Walter indicated he would contact Mike Dugan to get a written confirmation of his statement and Joe Poquette expressed a desire to trim the dollar amount down which would be presented in the articles.

Bills/Budget:

The bills and attached warrant were circulated for approval.

It was determined the next work session of the Selectboard will be scheduled for September 18^th from 6 to 7 p.m. with the regular meeting of the Selectboard occurring at 7 p.m.

Adjournment:

Walter Page made a motion to adjourn and Joe Poquette placed a second.  The meeting adjourned at 9:06 a.m.

Respectfully submitted,

DRAFT

MINUTES OF MEETING

SELECTBOARD WORK SESSION

TUESDAY, AUGUST 22, 2006

ATTENDEES:

Larry Dupont                            Marie Kilbride              Walter Page

Joe Poquette                            Jeff Potvin

INVITED GUEST:

Michael Duggan

GUESTS:

Jack Miller                               Eileen Mitchell

Call Meeting to Order:

Co-Chair, Marie Kilbride, called the Work Session to order at 6:35 PM.

It was suggested the order of the agenda be changed and the Meeting dates for September was addressed first.  After discussion it was determined another Work Session will occur on Thursday, September 7^th at 7:30 AM in the Town Office.  A regular Selectboard Meeting will occur on September 18^th at 7 PM in the School Library with a Work Session occurring just prior to that from 6 to 7 PM.

Town Office Survey Discussion:

Michael Dugan, Architect, was introduced to all.  Walter reminded that he and Joe had been asked to explore matters relating to the Town Hall and the presentation of options.  At the time, it was felt that someone from outside should present a “back of the envelop” calculation of the costs.  He then explained the content of two previous phone conversations held with Mike on the matter, which included the four options put to the voters in a survey on June 6, 2006 and the fact that public hearings were held prior to the vote.  It was decided the top two vote getting options would then be worked out in further detail and presented back to the voters for final determination.  In that process the figure of $700,000 was used, thinking the options would not entail any more than that, but not being entirely sure.  Written materials were distributed indicating that harder numbers would be furnished when the options were narrowed down to two.  He then explained the options included in the survey.  A lengthy discussion ensued which included:

·        putting the Town Office at ground level and what the building would look like raised to provide space for the offices;

·        replacing and reinforcing the roof and sidewalls to bring the exterior up to code;

·        putting offices in the building, along with the hall, but not changing the height of the building;

·        concerns about the possibility of grants and restoration funds being eliminated;

·        studies pertaining to water under the Town Hall basement floor;

·        constructing a slab and leaving the building as a one-story hall;

·        Town Offices placed in the basement in the 1960s;

MINUTES OF WORK SESSION

AUGUST 22, 2006

PAGE 2

·        voters should make the decision as to what to do with the building;

·        the Town Hall being utilized as community offices only;

·        concern that the Board is not responding by fleshing out the two top vote getting options;

·        giving away a very valuable piece of property;

·        building a Town complex elsewhere which includes the fire station, public works and town offices;

·        tearing the existing building down and building a replica;

·        the extent of the renovation and the cost involved to bring the building up to code;

·        historic preservation grants and community arts/performance grants;

·        water/mold problems in the Town Hall;

·        occupying the lower level means fixing the roof;

·        no interaction between floors is like two separate buildings;

·        renovating the existing Town Hall means ending up with the “skin of old”;

·        urging for “back of the envelop” numbers for option #2;

·        moving the offices from the Town Hall site means purchasing another site;

·        placing Town Offices off the Town Hall site means purchasing land;

·        sentimentality of the Town Hall

·        too expensive a project to restore the Town Hall with the end result being what few people really want;

·        actual usage of  the old Town Hall facility during the course of a year;

·        possibility of moving the Town Hall to another site and utilizing the current site for a new Town Office utilizing the current septic, etc.;

·        obtaining an estimate of cost for option #2 on the survey and whether money should be spent for the estimate when in all probability the option isn’t feasible;

·        15 to 20% increase in building costs since two years ago;

Each Board member then gave an opinion of where the Board should go after the discussion.  Jeff Potvin indicated putting Town Offices back in the Town Hall are not an option and his personal opinion is that he would like to see the Town Hall remain where it is with the Town Offices placed elsewhere, with consideration being given for a Town Complex including the Fire Department and Public Works Department, along with the Town Offices.

Joe Poquette felt the mold is what is really scary about the existing Town Hall and felt going to a slab would eliminate many issues.  He really doesn’t have any sentimentality regarding the Town Hall and doesn’t care if the building stays or goes, but the voters should decide what to do whether they want to tear down the old building and rebuild or give the building away and seek a site for Town Offices elsewhere.

MINUTES OF WORK SESSION

AUGUST 22, 2006

PAGE 3

Larry Dupont has been looking to the future to find out what is most economical for the community and feels if the building goes away to another entity for a while that is probably a high probability and the Town would then have the expense of maintaining the building in the future.  It would be nice to have both entities located in the village because it would be frugal for the community in the future.  However, after listening to Mike, the expense involved would be too much and the community probably would not support that type of project.  He felt, therefore, he would have to move from that choice as it’s not viable and go to the next choice to offer to the community.

Walter Page indicated if the number of $700,000 is outlandishly low and it really is $900,000 and up, then there really is no choice and options #1 and #3 should be warned with #1 being tear it down and build Town Offices on site and #3 is give it to a non-profit or coalition of non-profits.  However, he would argue that a stipulation be included that it not be given back to the Town at some point in the future.

Marie Kilbride indicated she agreed with what each Board member said prior to her speaking and it is interesting to note that the Board is unanimous in their choices following the discussion.  Marie then pointed out that it was never determined if covenants would be placed on any titling of land and Walter felt legal counsel should be sought regarding that issue.  It was felt by all that legal counsel should be sought to put options forward and pull a presentation together.  It was also noted that the timeframe for presenting this to the voters in November had been reviewed and it was feasible to pull this together for that election.

A discussion ensued about the Town providing the non-profits with a fund for remediation of the “brown field”, should the voters approve that option and Eileen Mitchell indicated she did not feel that should be part of the question put to the voters.  It was suggested Paul Gillies be consulted regarding the legalities involved with the options and it was felt Paul should be invited to the work session scheduled for September 7^th.  Mike advised he has a one-story office plan from years ago he would be willing to submit to a contractor to get “today’s price” so that all would feel comfortable with the number. 

Mike was thanked for his input presented and Walter Page made a motion to enter into Executive Session at 8:37 PM.  Larry Dupont seconded the motion.  Walter Page made a motion to come out of Executive Session at 8:57 PM and Joe Poquette placed a second. Walter Page then made a motion to adjourn and Joe Poquette seconded the motion.  The meeting adjourned at 8:59 PM. 

Respectfully submitted, 

DRAFT

MINUTES OF MEETING

SELECTBOARD MEETING

MONDAY, AUGUST 14, 2006

ATTENDEES:

Larry Dupont                            Marie Kilbride                          Walter Page

Joe Poquette                            Jeff Potvin                                Ruth Miller

GUESTS:

See attached.

Call Meeting to Order:

Marie Kilbride, Co-Chair, called the meeting to order at 7:32 PM.

Guests:

None

Minutes of July 17, 2006 (Work Session), July 17, 2006 (Selectboard), July 25, 2006, July 31, 2006:

Walter Page moved adoption of the minutes of July 17, 2006 Work Session and Joe Poquette placed a second.  There being no discussion, the minutes were approved as written (5-0).

Walter Page moved acceptance of the minutes of July 17, 2006 Selectboard meeting and Joe Poquette placed a second.  Larry Dupont questioned if Jack Miller had followed up on the issue of the horses swimming in the lake and Jack advised he had made a site visit and found the trail acts as a natural drainage ditch and had concern about horse droppings being washed into the lake by rain.  He felt it inappropriate that the horses be allowed in the lake and he suggested the people involved go before the Board of Adjustment and let the Board make the decision. 

Joe Poquette mentioned that the tree at the Library hasn’t been taken care of yet.  Kevin Daignault did contact the guy to remove the branches and Joe will follow-up with Kevin to find out further particulars. 

Joe also reminded that a discussion had occurred regarding Kevin Daignault building a pad behind the garage at the school for placement of the trailer now located on the Miller property.  Ruth Miller urged the trailer be moved and secured and what is stored in the trailer can be reviewed as time allows.  Joe also reminded it had been determined the gray benches were to be taken out of the trailer and placed at Camp Ingalls.

There being no further discussion, the minutes of July 17, 2006 were approved on a voice vote (5-0).

Walter Page reminded that he had asked for the Work Session of July 25, 2006, indicating he would review the existing studies and look to others outside of the

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

AUGUST 14, 2006

PAGE 2

community to provide some input.  The minutes indicate he was not in attendance, however, he wished the minutes to reflect that he was absence due to a family medical emergency.  All in attendance felt this request was reasonable and the minutes will be changed to reflect this request.  Larry Dupont made a motion to approve the minutes as amended and Joe Poquette placed a second.  On a voice vote, the minutes were unanimously approved (5-0).  Joe Poquette questioned in paragraph 2, page 2 whether or not the reappraisal firm would be participating in the process at the BCA level for $600/day and was advised by Larry Dupont that the Listers are presenting another option to the Board later on the agenda, but what Purvis had indicated was they would need at least a 30-day notice to participate at that level.  They had also indicated that coverage would not be available for the short term as not enough notice was given for those services either.

Walter Page moved acceptance of the minutes of July 31, 2006 and Jeff Potvin placed a second.  There being no discussion, the minutes were approved as written (5-0).

Public Works Foreman:

Jeff Potvin advised that brush has been cut on both sides of West Shore Road. 

Walter Page questioned if Robin Rousseau’s employment evaluation had ever been completed and was advised it hadn’t, mainly because the Board members were unable to schedule a time to get together.  Larry Dupont and Marie Kilbride agreed they would get together soon to get this accomplished. 

Water:

Larry Dupont advised the Water Board had suggested a correction to the Water Sales Agreement the Selectboard signed and the correction was implemented by Attorney Melloni, but Larry had talked with Paul Hansen of Alburgh and he advised their Board had signed the version North Hero had signed.   Joe Poquette clarified the Water Board had suggested “a one word” change.  Larry Dupont advised the document is now signed and the “ball is now in Alburgh’s court”.

Larry Dupont then advised the paperwork for the project closeout for RF3-108 had never gotten signed and asked for a motion to sign the document.  Joe Poquette made a motion to have Larry Dupont sign the document on behalf of the Selectboard.  Walter Page questioned what the document pertains to and was advised by Larry it pertains to the Water Plant upgrade loan for $550,000, which actually came in as a final loan value of $544,444.38.   Walter Page seconded the motion and on a voice vote Larry Dupont was approved (5-0) to sign on behalf of the Selectboard.

Appointment/Wages Town Constable:

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

AUGUST 14, 2006

PAGE 3

Marie Kilbride advised that a letter had been received from David Campbell expressing interest in filling the vacated Constable position.  Walter Page advised there is $700 in the budget for animal control and zero to pay the Constable.  After discussion, a motion was made by Larry Dupont to appoint David Campbell as Constable, pay him a stipend of $300 and $25 per incident thereafter.  Joe Poquette seconded the motion and there being no further discussion, the Board unanimously approved (5-0) the appointment/wages for Town Constable.

Zoning Fees:

John Lambert distributed a new fee schedule (compared to Grand Isle) designed to cover the Town cost so that taxpayers are not paying for hearings or applications, while not making a large profit at applicants’ expense.  The fees are based on House Bill 117 changes, as the Zoning Administrator will be making multiple site visits when dealing with requested permits.  It should be noted that the process to be implemented for Butler Island inhabitants is not yet clarified.  In 2005-2006 it was noted that approximately $18,000 was collected and actual cost to the Town was $16,700.  John then recommended approval of the proposed fees on behalf of the Planning Commission and Jack Miller indicated since July 1^st of 2006 he had issued six certificates of compliance, ten septic certificates of compliance and thirteen building permits. He then stressed the process for posting variance applications on the property, as well as posting building permits and certificates of compliance.  He stressed that House Bill 117 has placed a great deal of additional travel/work on the Zoning Administrator.  After further discussion regarding Butler Island fees/permit processing, Walter Page made a motion to adopt the fee schedule as presented.  After further discussion, the motion was amended to include “effective September 15^th”and Jeff Potvin placed a second.  On a voice vote, the fee schedule was approved as presented (5-0). 

Board of Listers Update, Approval of Purvis Invoice:

Walter Page advised the last Purvis invoice has been received and he has read their contract very carefully.  Included in the contract was a promise to participate on a per diem basis following completion of the contract and no notification requirements were specified.  Walter pointed out he does not believe Purvis performed well per their contract, but he believes they have entirely fulfilled it and it is his recommendation we pay their final invoice and be done with them.  Larry Dupont agreed with Walter and then read into the record a recommendation from William Orcutt, former Lister, to release all monies to Purvis Associates as defined by contract.  Paula Knight, Lister, added she was in agreement with William Orcutt’s recommendation.  She then indicated the Lister Board has contracted with Hinman Associates on an interim basis for assessment services and the Board is advertising for bids for assessment services for the long term.  Joe Poquette made a motion to pay the outstanding invoice with Purvis and Walter Page placed a second.  There being no further discussion, the motion was approved on a voice vote (5-0).   Walter then advised he had reviewed the budget after hearing concerns

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

AUGUST 14, 2006

PAGE 4

expressed about cost in association with Hinman & Associates.  He believes after his review, what is in the budget for listers should cover Hinman & Associates through the end of the current fiscal year.  However, if he should be off in his calculation, further budget review indicates around $15,000 of slush; namely, $5,000 was budgeted to pay the delinquent tax collector, which will not be expended and $5,000 budgeted to special projects which remain unnamed, along with several minor line items which will not need to be expended.   Joe Poquette made a motion to allow Listers to sign the interim contract with Hinman Associates and Larry Dupont seconded the motion.  On a voice vote signing of the interim contract was unanimously approved (5-0). 

Letter of Agreement for Computer Appraisal Services:

Marie Kilbride advised the State of Vermont Department of Taxes submitted a letter of agreement for computer appraisal service which requires a signature.  In the letter, the Town of North Hero agrees to pay the sum of $157.00 to Property Valuation and Review for said license and acknowledges that the license terminates on June 30, 2007.  The State of Vermont agrees to license the Town of North Hero to use the Marshall and Swift Cost Tables until June 30, 2007.  Joe Poquette made a motion to have one of the Co-Chairs sign the Letter of Agreement and Walter Page placed a second.  There being no further discussion, Larry Dupont signed on behalf of the Selectboard, following approval of the motion on a voice vote (5-0). 

Delinquent Tax Collector report:

Ruth Miller, Delinquent Tax Collector, advised delinquent taxes are now computerized on the NEMRC program and the first interest due statements were sent out, which included the State statute imprinted on the bottom of the statements.  Several calls and visits were made to the Town Office questioning the legal verbage and then made payments against their outstanding accounts.  She then recommended, after speaking with Chad Hewitt from Sullivan and Powers, that the names of the delinquent property tax and water accounts be published in the Town Report and asked for consideration of placing these items on the warning for the next March meeting. 

Village Center Designation:

Marie Kilbride reminded that at a previous meeting, application guidelines were presented to the Board for a Village Center Designation.  She then added that a decision has to be made as to whether or not the Board wishes to complete the application, which recognizes and encourages local efforts to maintain Vermont’s traditional village centers.  She stressed it being quite an elaborate process.  Various letters of support have been received from village residents.  Joe Poquette reminded that time was spent at the last meeting in a discussion, as well as listening to a presentation and he feels the Selectboard represents the whole town and the issue should be placed on a future ballot for the townspeople to decide if they want to become involved.  Walter agreed and before he would be willing to get involved with any further discussion he would want to read the

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

AUGUST 14, 2006

PAGE 5

enabling legislation.  He felt the Board should recognize that the opportunity exists, that work would need to be done on it, but members of the Board need to become informed in the interim. 

Kenny property water problem:

Joe Poquette advised that Mike Burke needs to speak with Doug Hewitt and will then get back to Joe. Jim Giroux advised that Mike Scandore did not reconnect any drainage cut offs through the village when the water line was installed.

Bills/Budget:

The warrant and attached bills were circulated for signatures.  Walter Page questioned the statement for the water heater which was installed at the Library.  The final bill totaled over $600 when it was felt the total would be between $350 to $400.  Joe Poquette questioned the cemetery mowing bill from the Vermont Offender Program and suggested this be looked into and brought back to the next meeting for review.

Correspondence:

A copy of a letter was received from Michael Burke of Krebs & Lansing addressed to the Agency of Natural Resources which indicates the results of the four monitor wells in the parking lot of the Town Hall indicate the area has potential for a mound style wastewater disposal system.  After discussion, it was determined that a notice should be placed in The Islander advising townspeople a building will not be placed behind the Town Hall as it has the potential for a secondary wastewater system.  Walter Page made a motion to that affect and Joe Poquette seconded the motion.  On a voice vote all agreed (5-0).   Joe Poquette suggested the Board speak with Paul Gillies about the status of a bond that is not acted upon and Larry Dupont indicated he would speak with Paul on behalf of the Board and all were in agreement. 

Copies of Excess Weight Permits issued to M.A. Redmond & Sons and Frank W. Whitcomb Construction were included for the Board’s information. 

An email was received advising of a public forum on the Lake Champlain Islands’  Creative Economy project scheduled for August 21^st from 6:30 to 9 p.m. in the Gordon Center House.

NCCI (National Council on Compensation Insurance, Inc.) notified North Hero of a 10 percent discount, which means (as Jeff Williams explained) that North Hero is 10 percent better than the average municipality within the statistical geographic area.

The 2006 Recreational and Educational Facilities Grant Program application as well as the 2006 Human Services Competitive Grant Program application were received. 

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

AUGUST 14, 2006

PAGE 6

It was suggested the Recreational application be forwarded to the Parks & Recreation Board and the Human Services information to the Historical Society.

A letter from W.H. Greene & Associates, Inc. has notified the Town of intent to renew insurance with altered limits, coverages, deductibles or rates.  Jeff Williams advised companies are required by State statute to send such a notification.

New Business:

Marie Kilbride then advised she had received an email from Ann Cousins of Vermont Preservation Trust requesting a site visit of the Town Hall on August 17^th.  Marie explained they are a potential funding source if at some point in the future the town moves in the direction of conservation of the building. Because the request came to Marie’s attention after the cut off time for the Board agenda compilation and because the visit is scheduled to occur before the time of the next Board meeting, Marie asked they be allowed, with accompaniment and with proper release of responsibility, to examine the Town Hall.  Walter Page moved the group be given access, someone be with them and they sign off on liability.  Jeff Williams suggested anyone entering the building also be required to wear inhalation protection and that it would be a good idea to get a release signed.  Walter Page then modified his motion to approval of the site visit assuming they sign off on liability, they wear appropriate inhalation protection and they be accompanied by a town official.  Larry Dupont seconded the motion and on a voice vote the site visit was unanimously approved (5-0). 

Jack Miller then suggested the liability release should be reviewed and Jeff Williams agreed the release and signage should be clear that the town policy requires permission of a town official, inhalation protection and a release of liability signature.  It was suggested that Paul Gillies be asked about a waiver of liability form for one tosign prior to entering the Town Hall.

Old Business:

Walter Page again apologized for not attending the Work Session of July 17^th, as he and Joe had agreed to pull together information and then he wasn’t available to present it.    He advised he has reviewed all of the documentation, but he felt the charge was more in terms of determining whether there were people out there who would assist in putting together “best guess” estimates for the second option discussed.  He further advised he had talked with Mike Duggan, an architect who has worked with the town previously, asking if Mike would be willing to meet with the Selectboard and discuss what is needed to arrive at a “best guess” estimate for completion of the option.  After a lengthy discussion, three dates were determined to work out best.  Walter will follow-up with Mike and have a work session warned accordingly.

Executive Session (if necessary):

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

AUGUST 14, 2006

PAGE 7

Not needed.

Adjournment:

Joe Poquette made a motion to adjourn and Walter Page seconded the motion.  The meeting adjourned at 9:35 PM.

Respectfully submitted, 

DRAFT

MINUTES OF MEETING

SELECTBOARD WORK SESSION

MONDAY, JULY 17,2006

ATTENDEES:

Larry Dupont                                        Marie Kilbride                          Walter Page

Joseph Poquette                                   Jeff Potvin                                Ruth Miller

Call Work Session to Order:

Larry Dupont, Co-Chair, called the Work Session to order at 6:31 PM.

Town Office Survey Results:

Walter Page reminded that he had asked for the Work Session to proceed with two options to present to the community, which hopefully will be final choices.  The Selectboard had previously indicated they would warn four mutually exclusive options and then take the two top vote getters and prepare a second round for decision making by the Town.  There was concern as to whether the Board would present detailed plans with accompanying dollars or present “not to exceed numbers” again.  He also reminded the results of the survey provided no significant new insight with one exception.  He had indicated some time ago that he felt there were a significant number of people in the community who were interested in having the facility gifted to a non-profit and apparently 26% (49 votes) of voters felt that way also.  The option that got the second largest number of votes was to retain the building, jack it up and build town offices in the lower level and then in the future seek funding to complete the upstairs.  Fifty three voters (28%) voted for the restoration.  Thirty eight percent (73 people) voted for removing the structure and replacing it with town offices.  The only new information he could see was the interest in gifting the Town Hall building or having the involvement of non-profits, which suggests that down the road when looking at renovating the upstairs, that option is something that would need to be explored.  Walter then suggested that the Board should focus on how the options will be presented to the people.

Marie Kilbride agreed that two options need to be presented with one being, based upon the number of votes, replacing the existing building with a new building.  In terms of the second option, she agreed that the Board can look at the next highest number of votes, which is the combination of the Town offices on the ground floor with restoration of the upper portion to be left until monies are available through a non-profit source.  She then indicated she felt the Board didn’t know much about the viability of the existing building as something that can house both offices and the community hall.  She felt she would be opposed at this point to setting an upper price limit because she feels it is time to do some significant exploration of the building, if the Board intends to do two things with it.  She would be in favor of presenting real figures to the voters for them to make judgments on by hiring an outside firm to acquire numbers based upon needs.  She added that if it becomes apparent that the building cannot support the two functions simultaneously, then she would suggest considering the third option, titling the building to someone else,

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD WORK SESSION

JULY 17, 2006

PAGE 2

might be viable and the Town would then build Town Offices elsewhere in the community.

Larry Dupont agreed that professional advice is needed to zero in on a ball park number.  Walter then pointed out that a great deal of money has already been spent and to get that kind of information is going to cost a great deal more money.  He reminded the Town has already said what they don’t want to spend.  Joe Poquette agreed there definitely has to be two options and from input by townspeople, he feels the options should be presented  sooner rather than later.  He suggested researching existing information rather than seeking new information, keeping the cost at a minimum.  He pointed out that an architect will need a figure to design a structure and feels there is enough data and that combined with common sense, would allow one to pull a figure together and do something with a “not to exceed number”. 

Walter Page then pointed out the question of whether or not restoring the Town Hall downstairs for Town Offices and leaving the upstairs for future renovation is viable and the Board could determine this by consulting with an outside independent consultant.   He stressed the plan of the Board to warn the four options, take the two highest vote getters and go back to the community with them.  The only issue that didn’t fully get resolved was when you go back to the community what kind of number do you go back with, i.e. an engineering number or a not to exceed number.  

Larry Dupont then questioned how the Board will come up with the ball park figure?  Where will the Board get that information?  Jeff Potvin felt that research should be done to find out if it is feasible to put the Town Offices back in the basement because if it cannot be done, then the option no longer exists.

Joe Poquette urged that the two options be put to the voters as soon as possible and recommended a site visit for the Selectboard and any interested parties.  Concern was raised about the liability issue involved with the public touring the building.  However,  Joe felt the citizens of the Town deserve the right to tour the building. 

Walter urged another Work Session be scheduled soon to thrash out whether or not they wish to contact some independent consultant.  Larry Dupont suggested a couple of the members of the Board start exploring who could help the Board answer their questions and Walter and Joe both indicated they would be willing to help out and stressed the need for researching the existing data to bring it together. 

Larry Dupont asked that they bring back what they can collect without spending any money or making any promises to anyone on behalf of the Town for funds at this point.  After discussion, it was determined that another Work Session would be scheduled for Tuesday, July 25^th beginning 6:30 PM for an hour.

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD WORK SESSION

JULY 17, 2006

PAGE 3

Joe Poquette made a motion to close the Work Session and Jeff Potvin seconded the motion.  On a voice vote (5-0) the meeting was adjourned at 7 PM. 

Respectfully submitted,

DRAFT

MINUTES OF EXECUTIVE SESSION

NORTH HERO SELECTBOARD

JULY 13, 2006

ATTENDEES:

Larry Dupont                            Marie Kilbride                          Walter Page

Joe Poquette                            Jeff Potvin                                Ruth Miller

Invited Guests:

Attorney Paul Gillies                 James Kilbride              William Orcut

Geri Siegel

Call Meeting to Order:
Larry Dupont, Co-Chair, called the meeting to order at 7:35 AM.

The Board entered into Executive Session at 7:36 AM.

Attorney Paul Gillies arrived at 9 AM and the Board of Listers arrived at 10:07 AM.

On a motion by Walter Page and a second by Joe Poquette, the Board came out of Executive Session at 11:10 AM.

Walter Page made a motion to contact the reappraisal firm and inform them the Selectboard is now prepared to make a payment of their overdue invoice in the amount of $7880.00.   Marie Kilbride seconded the motion to pay the invoice.  Walter Page also moved to invite George Nelson to the next meeting to be held on Monday, July 17, 2006 and Joe Poquette seconded the motion.  The Board voted unanimously to approve the motions (5-0).

It was recommended by Larry Dupont that the members of the School Board be invited to the next meeting of the Selectboard.

On a motion by Joe Poquette and a second by Jeff Potvin, the Board adjourned at 11:15 AM.

Respectfully submitted,

DRAFT

MINUTS OF MEETING

NORTH HERO SELECTBOARD

JULY 10, 2006

ATTENDEES:

Larry Dupont                            Marie Kilbride                          Walter Page

Joseph Poquette                       Kevin Daignault                        Ruth Miller

ABSENT:

Jeff Potvin

INVITED GUESTS:

Bob Ayers

GUESTS:

See attached.

Call Meeting to Order:

Marie Kilbride, Co-Chair, called the meeting to order at 7 PM.

GUESTS:

Bob Ayers, Library Trustee, was recognized and indicated that Bart Wilcox had resigned from the Library Board and it is the recommendation of the Trustees that Bill Biddle be appointed to the vacated position.  He also noted that the Library’s hot water heater is leaking and needs to be replaced at an estimated cost of $650.00.  He then pointed out there are a number of dead branches in the trees above the Library parking lot that could be a liability issue for the Town.  Bob also questioned if the Board could make a recommendation for a painter.  Joe Poquette made a motion to appoint Bill Biddle to fill the vacated Library Trustee position and Walter Page seconded the motion.  On a voice vote, Bill was unanimously approved to serve on the Library Board until the time of the March election (4-0).  After discussion, it was determined the issue of replacing the water heater should be tabled pending further information.  Jack Miller indicated he would stop by and look at what needs to be painted and give Bob a quote for the job.  It was also determined after further conversation that the dead branches in the trees are a safety hazard and should be attended to in conjunction with Public Works and possibly a tree service. 

John Worden was recognized and expressed concern about dangerous conditions on the South End Road due to speeding vehicles. He read his letter dated July 10, 2006 into the record and distributed copies to the Board members.  After discussion, it was determined that Larry Dupont would forward a copy of the Worden’s letter to the Sheriff with a request for additional patrol of that area.  The second concern expressed in the letter deals with illumination of the corner of Route 2 and South End Road.  The Selectboard indicated they would take this under advisement, but reminded Route 2 is a State highway.

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

JULY 10, 2006

PAGE 2

Tracy Giroux was recognized and introduced Jane Lendway, head of the Division of Historical Preservation for the State of Vermont.  Jane reviewed the guidelines for Village Center Designation and handed out copies of the application.  The designation was created to recognize and encourage local efforts to revitalize Vermont’s traditional village centers.  The focus of the designation is on supporting commercial activity in the center of Vermont’s villages.

Jim Giroux was recognized and distributed a letter dated August 8, 2005 from Doug Hewitt, P.E. regarding a septic system/site inspection at the property located on 3593 US Route 2.  The inspection was requested after a water problem developed in July of 2005.  Jim outlined the problem identified at the time and what was done to remedy the problem.  Following a wet June, the water is “now boiling up in our yard”.   He indicated the antique shop is sinking because of the problem and is seeking assistance from the Town.  Kevin Daignault advised of the remedy to the problem which existed in 2005, as per Mike Burke’s (Krebs & Lansing) design.  Jack Miller indicated he had taken a water sample in the summer of 2005.  The water was obviously coming out of the land tile, which was approximately four feet down on the ledge.  It was the very next day that Helen Kenny had trouble with her leach field.  At the time a sub pump was observed at the end of the leach field pumping into the drain tile that the Town had exposed which then drained into the lake.  Jim Giroux was asked to remove the sub pump from Helen’s leach field because he was very obviously pumping sewage into a land tile that drained into the lake and Jim complied with the request.  Jack then indicated it is his belief that Helen has a failed leach field.  Joe Poquette then questioned if the State had cleaned out the big culvert as last summer it was completely plugged with tree roots and Kevin advised that Senesac had cleaned it out last year.  Joe indicated that when the water system was installed Mike Scandore was hired to run a separate drain line to intercept all those tiles and which went across the front of the Town Hall at the lowest grade and into the manhole that went under the road where the State culvert is located.  It was Joe’s impression that what instigated the problem to begin with was the State culvert being plugged solid with tree roots and mud.  He then advised he doesn’t know what is causing the drainage problem on the Kenny property but will take it under advisement and look into it.  After further discussion, it was determined that Mike Burke should be contacted for his opinion, the area should be checked for a water leak in a private line, a water sample taken and further discussion scheduled for the Selectboard meeting on July 17^th, 2006.

Minutes of June 5, 2006, June 19, 2006:

Walter Page made a motion to accept the minutes of June 5, 2006 and Larry Dupont seconded the motion.  There being no discussion, the minutes were unanimously approved as written (4-0).

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

JULY 10, 2006

PAGE 3

Larry Dupont made a motion to approve the minutes of June 19, 2006 and Joe Poquette seconded the motion.  Larry Dupont then questioned if the pot holes in the parking lot between the Town Hall and Hero’s Welcome had been repaired and Kevin Daignault advised they had been.  Joe Poquette advised he had gone down to Bridge Road with Kevin and they had shot grades and there is plenty of elevation in the ditch for the water to run.  Two of the existing culverts can be dug out and lowered to the proper grade.  Sandra Spiegel’s culvert is felt to be destroyed, but he is afraid if the Town starts to replace individual culverts there will be multiple requests to do just that.  He recommended Sandra be contacted and advised the Town will gladly work on the ditch, but that she may have to purchase a culvert or the damaged one can be reinstalled.  Joe Poquette noted there are a numerous places in Town that need work such as this and the Town should be looking at places that have deteriorated and need to be fixed.  He further advised that in the past various properties have been sent letters urging repair of such areas and a year or two later nothing has been done.  Sandra’s area is scheduled for work when it becomes drier as there is still 8 to 10 inches of water in the area.

Joe then clarified at the top of Page 2, paragraph one, he felt Jeff Potvin indicated he would check into the procedure for turning a Class IV road into a trail or to abandon it (pertaining to the back half of Sunset View Road), which Jeff did and Joe indicated he would talk with Dwight Bullis, which he did.  The Bullis’ indicated they would think about it and would be sending a letter once they make up their minds.

There being no further discussion, the minutes were unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).

Larry Dupont made a motion to approve the minutes of the Public Hearing – Zoning Bylaws dated June 19, 2006 as written and Walter Page seconded the motion and the minutes were unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).

Public Works Foreman:

Kevin Daignault advised everything he had to discuss had been previously covered. 

Joe Poquette then advised he had an issue that he would like to discuss in that he feels there are very dangerous sites along the Town roads that need to be addressed and stressed cutting brush around traffic signs increasing visibility. 

Water – South Alburgh Water Agreement:

John Kiernan from Phelps Engineering distributed the Water Sales Agreement with  recommended changes indicated from the previous agreement, which was emailed with Attorney Tom Melloni’s and Engineer Mike Burke’s suggested revisions.  Walter Page questioned if the Agreement had been discussed with the Water Board and Joe Poquette indicated that three of the five Water Board members have approved the version with the

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

JULY 10, 2006

PAGE 4

suggested revisions.  After a discussion of four additional suggested wording changes, Larry Dupont made a motion to sign on behalf of the Town the Agreement as depicted by Thomas Melloni dated June 22, 2006 and Walter Page placed a second. 

On a voice vote the Agreement was unanimously approved (4-0) and Larry Dupont was asked to sign the Agreement on behalf of the Selectboard.  Terry Schaefer, Co-Chair of the Water Board, signed on behalf of the Water Board.

Recreation Committee Membership:

Marie Kilbride advised that Ruth Miller has submitted an email from Deborah Markowitz regarding the Recreation Committee membership and Deb indicated the Town can decide on the membership of the Recreation Committee.  Walter Page made a motion to decrease the membership of the Recreation Committee to five members and Joe Poquette seconded the motion.  There being no further discussion, the motion was approved on a voice vote (4-0).

Visiting Nurse Association Agreement:

Joe Poquette made a motion to have one of the Co-Chairs of the Selectboard sign the Agreement and Walter Page seconded the motion.  On a voice vote the motion was approved and Larry Dupont was asked to sign the Agreement.

Lake Champlain Housing insert:

A request was received again this year from the Lake Champlain Housing Development Corporation requesting an insert be included with the property tax bills.  Ruth Miller did not recommend this be done as last year it was approved with the understanding assistance would be provided to stuff the inserts with the bills.  One individual arrived late and then could only stay for a short period of time to assist.  Several individuals also expressed concern in that the Corporation received free advertising by the inserts being included with the property tax bills and, therefore, she did not recommend participating in this endeavor this year.  Walter Page made a motion to reject their offer and Joe Poquette seconded the motion.  On a voice vote the request was unanimously denied (4-0).

Resignation of Town Constable:

Michael Chrastina submitted a letter of resignation from his Constable position effective June 30, 2006.  Since this is an elected position, it was determined a notice should be placed in the paper requesting any interested party to submit a letter of interest to the Town Office.  Walter Page agreed unless a petition is submitted for a special election in the meantime. 

Resignation of Town Lister:

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

JULY 10, 2006

PAGE 5

Bill Orcutt submitted his resignation effective July 27, 2006 as he and his wife will be moving out of town.  It was determined a notice should be placed in the paper requesting any interested party submit a letter of interest to the Town Office.

Application Driveway Permit:

A Driveway Permit was received from Edward Paya, which was approved by Kevin Daignault.  Joe Poquette felt that Driveway Permits and Excess Weight Permits should be approved and signed by the Public Works Foreman, unless there is a special situation that needs Board review.   The Selectboard requested copies of any approved permit be copied to the Selectboard for their information.  Joe Poquette made a recommendation that the Foreman and one Selectperson sign the permits as necessary without full Board approval and Larry Dupont seconded the motion, which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).

Excess Weight Permit – MA Redmond & Sons:

The Weight Permit will be signed by the Public Works Foreman and one Selectperson as per the above approved motion.

Tables/chairs for Town functions:

Marie Kilbride advised that Island Arts asked if they could borrow some chairs for its public function over the July 4^th weekend and asked for clarification regarding the Town Policy on lending table and chairs out.  After a discussion, Walter Page moved that the use of tables and chairs be restricted to North Hero non-profit organizations, excepting cases where the Selectboard chooses to set aside the policy and allow others to use them.  It was suggested that a sign-out sheet be kept in the Town Office.  Larry Dupont seconded the motion, which was approved on a voice vote (4-0). 

Monitor Wells North Hero Town Hall:

Marie Kilbride advised that a letter was received from Michael Burke of Krebs & Lansing indicating “the soils in the parking lot to the west of the Town Hall have potential to support a wastewater disposal system.  The Regional Engineers Office would not allow this area to be used for another building or an addition to the Town Office building because the soils have potential to be a replacement area for the existing Town Office Wastewater Disposal System.”  Joe Poquette made a motion that the Selectboard authorize Krebs & Lansing to submit the results of the 2006 monitoring season to the Regional Engineers office and Larry Dupont seconded the motion.  On a voice vote the motion was approved (4-0).

Selectboard responsibilities:

Larry Dupont advised he approached David Jacobs about serving on the Northwest Vermont Solid Waste District board.  David advised he had spoken with Ruth Miller and obtained information about what was involved with the responsibility and he agreed to

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

JULY 10, 2006

PAGE 6

serve.  Larry Dupont then nominated David to serve as the representative to the NW SWD from North Hero.  Joe Poquette seconded the motion which was approved on a voice vote (4-0).

Ruth Miller than advised she recently had a situation with finances in the Town Office where she needed to seek the opinion and assistance of a Selectboard member to present the situation to the full Board.  She then asked Walter Page speak further in this regard.  Walter advised that an issue arose concerning a school warrant not being included in the database when the year-end financial statements were compiled. The result being the school is in greater arrears than was initially believed.  Ruth discussed with him the advisability of the Town loaning the school $37,000 until the first payment is made from the Town to the school the end of August.  This was discussed with the School Board and he believed this certainly made sense under the circumstances.  Walter moved that the loan be approved to the school in the amount of $37,000 in anticipation of the first payment to the school the end of August.  Joe Poquette seconded the motion.  Walter informed he would be willing to serve as Financial Advisor from the Selectboard to the Town Treasurer in the future.  Walter also indicated he had reviewed the financials and was in agreement that the Town was in a position to loan the money to the school.  Larry Dupont stressed that this would be a one-time assistance.  There being no further discussion, the $37,000 loan was approved for the school.

Marie Kilbride questioned if Joe Poquette had decided on any particular areas of interest to serve and Joe advised of his management style including bluntness in his comments.  He proceeded to point out that two Town elected positions are now vacant and the Board has approved seeking letters from interested parties so that appointments can be made.  He stressed that this same procedure had been followed when he sought the interim appointment to the Selectboard and then the Board made the decision to have a special election.  No petition had been received from the Town, yet a special election was called.

However, he indicated he is “here to roll up my sleeves and get some work done in the next few months”.  With that in mind he reviewed the list of Selectboard Responsibilities and felt he could be a help for a number of responsibilities which include Water Board, Liaison with the Fire Department, Rescue and Sheriff’s Department and Public Works. 

Walter Page commented that budget responsibilities include work as we prepare for Town Meeting, and budget is historically a trivial activity.  He requested he be eliminated from Budget and Finance be included instead as he is willing to help the Town Treasurer with issues as time goes on.

Larry Dupont mentioned that Robin Rousseau’s employee review still needs to be completed and suggested Joe Poquette might want to get involved with it.  Joe did not think he should get involved as he just came on the Board and he didn’t think he was in a

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

JULY 10, 2006

PAGE 7

position to do that.   After discussion, it was determined Larry Dupont and Marie Kilbride will complete the evaluation. 

Property Tax Rate:

Joe Poquette stressed the number of hours the Listers have put into the reappraisal, but he doesn’t feel comfortable with the outcome and after speaking with legal counsel, proposed a resolution of no confidence in the ongoing reappraisal.  Walter Page placed a second.  After a lengthy discussion, which involved community members as well as Selectboard members, Larry Dupont made a motion that the proposed resolution be tabled pending further information and the subject be placed again on the agenda for the next meeting to be held on July 17, 2006.  All Board members were in agreement. 

Survey results discussion:

Walter Page indicated he felt the Town has spoken and the Board should now take it to the next level and prepare two options for presentation to the voters through Selectboard work sessions.  He felt the Board should deal with the results in the context of working sessions and then bring the subject back to the table, at which time the Board has a definitive decision as to the two proposals.  He suggested working sessions be set up and the process begun immediately.  It was determined that the first session would be held just prior to the next regularly scheduled Selectbord meeting at 6:30 p.m. on the 17^th.

Town Bidding Process:

Joe Poquette suggested tabling this item until a future meeting.  Larry Dupont seconded the motion and on a voice vote (4-0) it was tabled.

Bills/Budget:

The bills and attached warrant were circulated for approval.  Ruth Miller noted she had a second request from the Listers for payment of an invoice from Purvis in the amount of $7880.   Walter Page reminded it had been voted at a prior meeting that no further payments would be made at the current time and Larry Dupont seconded the motion.  All were in agreement that the invoice should be held.

Correspondence:

Vermont Municipal Planning Grant Program for FY 2007 information was received, along with an offer for a free application workshop.  Marie Kilbride indicated she would like to attend the workshop. 

Estimate of FY2007 PILOT from William Johnson, Director of Property Valuation and Review is an estimated number and is subject to change as corrected or new information becomes available.

Project Plans for FY 2007 on State Lands in North Hero submitted by the Agency of Natural Resources.  It was noted by Joe Poquette that under Knight Point State Park they have listed a trial of swimming area for horses along the east shore of Hibbard Bay.  He

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

JULY 10, 2006

PAGE 8

felt there was a contradiction between cows having to be 25 feet from any drainage ditch.  After discussion, it was determined a letter should be written to the Agency and the Project should be passed by the Planning Commission for their input.  Larry Dupont is to contact John Lambert, Chair of the Planning Commission.

North Hero Landfill Monitoring Results Summary from the Johnson Company reports on the status of the samples collected in October 2005.  Joe Poquette reminded if the results continue to be good, the Town might be able to cut down on some of the analytical testing.

New Business:

None

Old Business:

None

Executive Session:

Walter Page made a motion to enter into Executive Session at 9:43 PM.  Larry Dupont seconded the motion and on a unanimous voice vote, the Board entered into Executive Session.  

On a motion by Walter Page and a second by Joe Poquette, the Board came out of Executive Session at 10:50 PM.  Walter Page made a motion to meet with Attorney Paul Gillies for counseling pertaining to tax billings and assessments.  Larry Dupont clarified that the session will be an Executive Session, closed to the public.   There being no further discussion, the motion was unanimously approved (4-0).

Walter Page also noted that the Working Sessions of the Board pertaining to the Survey Results will start on Monday, July 17^th at 6:30 PM.  Walter reiterated how strongly he feels that the Board has committed itself to a course of action and the Board needs to complete that course of action. 

Adjournment:

Larry Dupont made a motion to adjourn at 10:56 PM and Joe Poquette seconded the motion.  The meeting adjourned.

Respectfully submitted, 

TOWN OF NORTH HERO

SELECTBOARD

PUBLIC HEARING - ZONING BYLAWS

MINUTES

JUNE 19, 2006 

ATTENDEES:

Larry Dupont                            John Lambert                           Joe Poquette

Jeff Potvin

INVITED GUESTS:

Mary Jane Healy                      Peter Johnson                           Jack Miller                              

Jeanine Pratt

Larry Dupont called the Public Hearing to order at 6:30 PM.

John Lambert gave a quick overview of the process used to bring the final draft for approval to the Selectboard.  He also noted the three concerns expressed by Board members had been addressed and two changes were implemented as a result. 

Jeff Potvin indicated he had no objection following the overview. 

John asked the Selectboard to write a letter thanking the ad hoc subcommittee for their work.  The subcommittee membership included Shauna Hauser, Jeanine Pratt, Mary Jane Healy, Paul Healy, Chip Porter and Peter Johnson.  They met on a biweekly basis.

Joe Poquette made a motion to close the Public Hearing and Jeff Potvin seconded the motion.  The hearing closed at 7:37 PM.

Joe Poquette made a motion to take the recommendation of the ad hoc subcommittee and approve the bylaws and Jeff Potvin placed a second.  On a voice vote the bylaws were unanimously approved (3-0).

Respectfully submitted,

DRAFT

MINUTES OF MEETING

NORTH HERO SELECTBOARD

JUNE 19, 2006

ATTENDEES:

Larry Dupont                            Joe Poquette                Jeff Potvin

Kevin Daignault                        Ruth Miller

INVITED GUESTS:

Sandra Spiegel

GUESTS:

See attached.

Call Meeting to Order:

Larry Dupont. Co-Chair, called the meeting to order at 7 PM.

Guests:

Doug Robertson was thanked for his ten years of service to the community and was presented a plaque in appreciation of his dedication and service to the Town of North Hero Selectboard, Water Board and Planning Commission.

Minutes of June 5, 2006 – Review/Discussion/Approval:

The minutes were reviewed and on the bottom of page 1 pertaining to the turn around on Blockhouse Point Road, it was noted by Kevin Daignault that he had back dragged the turn around and has had no further contact with the owners. 

On Page 2, paragraph 1, it was noted that the employee evaluation pertaining to Robin Rousseau has not been completed.

Kevin Daignault informed the John Deere had been purchased from Harvest Equipment as discussed on page 3, paragraph 1.

Larry Dupont noted he had gotten in touch with Attorney Melloni as noted on the bottom of Page 3.  A copy of the agreement has been forwarded and he is waiting for his written response.

There being no further discussion, it was determined both Jeff Potvin and Joe Poquette were not in attendance at the June 5, 2006 meeting and on a motion by Joe Poquette, approval of the minutes was tabled until the time of the next meeting.

Public Works Foreman:

Kevin Daignault advised the springs for the big truck have been replaced at a cost of $1285.12.  He further advised that roadside mowing has been completed and Sunset View Road was graded this date.  Dwight and Monica Bullis have indicated an interest in

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

JUNE 19, 2006

PAGE 2

taking over the back half of Sunset View Road, that is from the tool shed to West Shore Road.   Kevin called Randy Reed at VTRANS to find out what the Town would lose for state aid money if that did occur and was informed $683.00.  Joe Poquette advised if this was to occur the Selectboard would have to warn a public hearing and the town would have to vote for approval.  It was determined after a discussion that Jeff Potvin and Joe Poquette would check into the procedure and further discussion will be scheduled for the next meeting of the Selectboard.  Kevin then advised with the Board’s approval he would like to be away on vacation July 3-7 and August 14-18.  It was suggested Kevin make a list of tasks for Robin to be completed during his absence.

Larry Dupont advised he has had requests for the pot holes in the parking lot between Hero’s Welcome and the Town Hall to be repaired.  After discussion, it was determined Kevin would back drag the parking lot.

Culvert Problems, 206 Bridge Road:

Kevin informed the culvert at 206 Bridge Road is higher than the ditch and the ends are crushed.  After discussion, it was determined Kevin should shoot the grades to see if there is enough elevation to clean the ditches out and reuse the same culverts that are there.  It was noted the project will not be undertaken until the area becomes drier.

Water:

Terry Schaefer, Co-Chair of the Water Board, was recognized and apologized for the quality of the reports that were included with the water bills recently mailed to water consumers. 

He then requested the Selectboard sign the water sales agreement with South Alburgh.

Terry also thanked Ruth Miller for aggressively collecting delinquent water bills.  He pointed out that water accounts were in arrears as far back as 2004.

Larry Dupont suggested the Water Board exercise more management skills in working with SOS in the future.  He also stressed that the Board should review whatever is submitted for a mailing prior to its being mailed.

Joe Poquette joined Terry in thanking Ruth and Kevin for their work in collecting delinquent water fees. 

Larry Dupont then informed that he would not sign the agreement at the current time as he felt a further legal opinion is needed, as well as Water Board approval prior to the Selectboard signing the document.

Police Services Contract:

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

JUNE 19, 2006

PAGE 3

Larry Dupont advised the Police Services Contract is an annual contract which contains the amounts voters approved at the March meeting.  Joe Poquette made a motion to sign the Police Services Contract as submitted by Sheriff Connie Allen and Jeff Potvin seconded the motion.  On a voice vote the contract was approved for signatures (3-0). 

Recreation Committee membership:

Ethan Pearson, Chair of the North Hero Recreation Committee, submitted a written request to reduce his Committee’s membership from nine to five members due to difficulty in filling vacant positions and further difficulty in reaching a quorum at any given time.  Joe Poquette questioned if the Town voted on the original bylaws or if the bylaws were approved by the Selectboard.  He further indicated that if the Chair is asking for a reduction in membership, everything that can be done to reduce it should be done and if it adopted by the Selectboard or Committee it would be easier to change than if the voters approved the bylaws.  The Board agreed they have no problem in approving this, but feel it is necessary to research this to see that it’s being done correctly.  Ruth was asked to research this and report back at the next meeting of the Board.

NHVFD Coin Drop:

Larry Dupont advised that a letter to the Vermont Agency of Transportation has been requested by Michael Murdock confirming that the Selectboard supports the Coin Drop to be held in June and August of 2006 to benefit the North Hero Volunteer Fire Department.  Jeff Potvin made a motion to sign the letter as requested and Joe Poquette placed a second.  On a voice vote approval was obtained for the Co-Chairs to sign the letter.

Town Hall Survey Results:

Larry Dupont read into the record the results of the Town Hall Survey conducted at the Special Election held on June 6, 2006.  The results were included in the “Notes from the North Hero Town Clerk” submitted for publication in The Islander, as well as being placed on the Town web page.  Larry noted that it was agreed by the Selectboard members that a quick review would be conducted at this meeting, but no in depth discussion would be undertaken until all Board members are in attendance.

Imagistics lease of Town Office photocopier:

Ruth Miller advised the Town Office is in need of a new photocopier as no replacement parts will be available after July 1^st.  She also noted that the enclosures for the water bills had to be run at the school as neither machine was functioning to turn out the volume required.  Marty Derda, the sales rep for Imagistics was contacted.  Imagistics is the company that supplies photocopiers for the GISU and it is Ruth’s intent to try to “ride on their coattails” of the GISU contract.   A conversation with George Nelson at the GISU determined that the Town needs to get a fair price and be sure the contract is

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

JUNE 19, 2006

PAGE 4

as good as what is offered to the GISU.  George informed the contract is put out to bid every three years and they obtain 5 or 6 bids with Imagistics consecutively coming out as number one.  A decision needs to be made as to whether or not the Town wants to join the school or go out on its own.  Ruth indicated she will be following up with George and asked for authorization to do what meets the needs of the Town.  Jeff Potvin made a motion to give Ruth the authority to lease a copier and Joe Poquette placed a second.  On a voice vote the motion was unanimously approved (3-0).

Bills/Budget:

Bills were circulated for approval.

Town Tax Rate:

Ruth Miller advised she figured the Town tax at $.2261, compared to $.38 for 2005-06 but is waiting for the CLA from the State to figure the School tax.  George Nelson advised the CLA is provided after the final Grand List is filed with the State.  Larry Dupont suggested that the Selectboard adopt a preliminary Town tax of $.23 to be adjusted after grievances.  Both Joe Poquette and Jeff Potvin felt they were not up to speed enough to adopt any preliminary figures at the current time.

Correspondence:

A letter from the State of Vermont Program Development Division was received advising of grant money available for small Park-and-Ride Facilities in Vermont communities.  It was suggested by Joe Poquette this letter be forwarded to the Planning Commission for their consideration.

A letter from Bart Wilcox pertaining to Board representation on the ILSC was received.

“Notes from the North Hero Town Clerk” was previously reviewed pertaining to the Town Hall Survey results.

Notification of approval of a grant for improved administration of federal elections was received from the Secretary of State.  Ruth applied for a grant and received $2995.00 to purchase a laptop computer, printer, install a telephone line in the school gym, purchase Excel software, as well as the Voter Registration Module from NEMRC, pay for consultant services and install a broadband or high speed internet connection.  Deb Markowitz advised the check will be arriving during the last two weeks of August and urged that we go ahead and get everything in order for implementation at the Primary election in September and use the grant money to reimburse the General Fund.  Joe Poquette made a motion to approve sending a memo to the School Board advising them of the grant received and what is involved and Jeff Potvin placed a second.  On a voice vote the motion was unanimously approved (3-0).

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

JUNE 19, 2006

PAGE 5

New Business:

Delay of July 3^rd Selectboard meeting to July 10^th:  Larry Dupont advised none of the Selectboard members want to have a meeting over the July 4^th holiday weekend and recommended moving the meeting to Monday, July 10^th.   All were in agreement and the meeting will be scheduled for July 10^th.

Larry Dupont then asked Joe Poquette to explore what Selectboard responsibilities he would like to undertake and Ruth will provide him with a listing as it now stands.

Old Business:

Town Bidding Policy:  A copy of the Town Bidding policy revised on December 20, 1999 by the Board of Selectmen was reviewed.  It was noted anything over “$1000 shall be submitted to a public bidding process”.  Joe Poquette suggested the dollar amount be discussed when the full Board is in attendance.  Larry Dupont suggested adding a #12 which would read “The Selectboard retains the right to waive or deviate from the bidding procedure due to emergency/abnormal situations”.  Joe Poquette made a motion to add the sentence as #12 on the Town of North Hero Bidding Policy and Jeff Potvin placed a second.  On a voice vote the motion was unanimously approve (3-0).

Executive Session:

Not necessary.

Adjournment:

Joe Poquette made a motion to adjourn and Jeff Potvin placed a second.  The meeting adjourned at 8:22 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

DRAFT

MINUTES OF MEETING

NORTH HERO SELECTBOARD

JUNE 5, 2006

ATTENDEES:

Larry Dupont                                        Marie Kilbride                          Walter Page

Kevin Daignault                                    Ruth Miller

ABSENT:

Jeff Potvin

INVITED GUESTS:

Paul Cheeseman                                   Jim Kilbride                              Bill Orcutt

Terry Schaefer                                      Shelly St. Hilaire                       Bart Wilcox

GUESTS:

See attached.

CALL MEETING TO ORDER:

Marie Kilbride, Co-Chair, called the meeting to order at 7 PM.

GUESTS:

None.

Approval of Minutes of May 9, 2006, May 15, 2006, May 17, 2006, May 23, 2006, May 25, 2006 – Review/Discussion/Approval:

Walter Page made a motion to approve the minutes of May 9, 2006 and Larry Dupont placed a second.  There being no discussion, the minutes were unanimously approved (3-0).

Larry Dupont made a motion to approve the minutes of May 15, 2006 and Walter Page placed a second.  Larry Dupont questioned if the Listers had provided an outline of their schedule to be published in The Islander and placed on the Town web page as indicated on page 1, last paragraph.  As the Listers will be presenting an update on reappraisal later at this meeting, this question will be discussed with them at that time.   On page 2, Walter Page questioned if the employment evaluation had been completed as discussed in paragraph 3, page 2.  Larry Dupont reminded that the Zoning Bylaws will be addressed by the Selectboard in a Final Hearing at the next meeting scheduled for June 19th at 6:30 PM.  Larry Dupont questioned if the turn around on Blockhouse Point Road had been checked out and Kevin indicated Jeff Potvin had not been in touch with him regarding this issue.  Kevin did note that the turn around usually gets back dragged and questioned if the owners would require anything beyond that and string trimming.  After discussion, it was determined the berm would be trimmed and see if the owners respond further.  There being no further discussion, the minutes were unanimously approved (3-0).

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

JUNE 5, 2006

PAGE 2

Walter Page made a motion to approve the minutes of May 17, 2006 and Larry Dupont placed a second.   On discussion, Walter questioned if the employee evaluation was completed by Larry Dupont and Jeff Potvin pertaining to Robin Rousseau.  Larry advised the evaluation has not been done as Jeff has not had the time in his schedule.  Larry then suggested that two Board members who do have time complete the evaluation within the next couple of weeks.  There being no further discussion, the minutes were unanimously approved (3-0).

Walter Page made a motion to approve the minutes of May 23, 2006 and Larry Dupont placed a second.  There being no discussion, the minutes were approved as written (3-0).

Walter Page made a motion to approve the minutes of May 25, 2006 and Larry Dupont placed a second.  Larry Dupont questioned if the plaques were ordered as discussed and Ruth Miller confirmed they were ordered.  There being no further discussion, the minutes were approved (3-0).

Discussion of Board of Adjustment Schedule:

Walter Page questioned how the Board of Adjustment meetings are currently scheduled and felt that regularly scheduled monthly meeting would be more convenient for all involved.  After discussion, Walt urged the Board to publish in the Town Report when the Board meets.  

Futures Committee Survey Results:

Shelly St. Hilaire advised the Board the biggest concern the community had indicated on the survey completed at the March meeting was the consolidation of the 7^th and 8^th grades with other area schools.  Cost was the second biggest issue and she stressed providing quality education with possible savings in working with other towns.  She informed Grand Isle is interested in working with North Hero in this regard and changes could occur as early as next year.  The Futures Committee is scheduled to meet again on June 15^th at the North Hero School. 

Excess Weight Permit – Masterson Excavation:

Walter Page made a motion to approve the permit and Larry Dupont seconded the motion, which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (3-0).  Larry Dupont signed the permit on behalf of the Board.

Public Works Foreman:

Kevin Daignault advised the roadside mowing is being done and John Beaulac of  South Hero has agreed to use the grader on Sunset View Road.  Kevin then questioned if the replacement parts for the big truck could be ordered any time soon, as in the past he was advised the repairs could be done in the next fiscal year.  Previous estimates totaled about $10,000 for the repairs.  After discussion, it was determined the truck springs should be fixed now at a cost of approximately $2,000 and the remainder of the repairs completed in the next fiscal year.  Kevin then advised he had three bids in for a mower and recommended purchasing a 20 hp. John Deere from Harvest Equipment.  Harvest has indicated they would be willing to hold on invoicing the Town until August 26, 2006.  Their bid of $4400 does include a limb saw and power sweeper.  In a prior discussion with Jeff Potvin, Kevin was advised he felt this was a good deal.  The John Deere would replace the 15 hp. Toro.  Marie Kilbride called for a motion to accept the bid for the John Deere and Larry Dupont so moved.  Walter Page placed a second and on a voice vote the purchase was unanimously approved (3-0). 

NWSWD Special Trash Collection-Public Works Volunteers:

Marie Kilbride advised that the Northwest Solid Waste District is holding a special trash collection day at the North Hero Landfill on June 10, 2006.  Historically the Town has paid for the public works personnel to work the day assisting at the landfill as a donation on behalf of the Town.  Marie then called for a motion to approve the past practice of public works personnel providing assistance at the event with the Town paying their salary for the day.  Larry Dupont made the motion and Walter Page placed a second.  The motion was unanimously approved on a voice vote (3-0).

Town Tax Rate:

Deferred pending further information.

Correspondence:

A letter from Frank W. Whitcomb Construction Corp. advises a fifty cent per ton ($.50/ton) increase effective June 1, 2006 on all materials delivered.

Water – Terry Schaefer:

Terry Schaefer, Co-Chair of the Water Board, advised a Water Sales Agreement with South Alburgh Fire District No. 2 was received on June 3^rd.  It would provide 34,000 gallons of water per day to Alburgh at $3.60/thousand, which would generate $45,000 per year.  He advised of the engineers and attorneys who reviewed the document and encouraged the Selectboard members to read it.  The Water Board will be reviewing the document for possible approval and the document will then be presented back to the Selectboard.  He stressed the bulk water sales to Alburgh will help out North Hero’s neighbors with the same quality water as is provided to North Hero users.  He also indicated North Hero has 60,000 gallons/day excess and the Water Board is choosing to sell 34,000 of that total.  After a discussion, Larry Dupont asked that a letter from the engineer, as well as the attorney, indicating they are happy with the agreement be obtained.  Tom Melloni is the attorney being utilized by the Water Department and Larry will be in touch with him requesting a confirmation in writing.

Terry also advised that an advertisement for a water plant operator will be published in the near future. 

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

JUNE 5, 2006

PAGE 3

Terry pointed out that three pieces of water main in town need to be replaced which are located across the road from Log Cabin Lane.  He recommended the replacement be done at the same time as the push that will be done in the near future.  He asked that the policy of putting out to bid anything costing more than $500 be waived for this particular job.  The Water Board is recommending the job be done on an hourly basis with the Town buying the materials and Public Works providing the manpower with a rented excavator.  It is their belief the Water Department can actually save money by doing it by the hour with rental equipment.  Walter Page made a motion to grant the request made by the Water Board, but also look at the issue of bidding in the future.  Larry seconded the motion, but amended it by noting it is an abnormal situation and the timeframe is critical.  On a voice vote the motion was unanimously approved (3-0).    Larry  Dupont also asked if Ruth Miller would be willing to research the State statutes regarding a minimum/maximum that has to be put out to bid in municipalities.

Reappraisal Update – Listers:

Jim Kilbride advised the final data had been received from Purvis and there appeared to be minimal errors on review and those that are found seem to be minor.  He also advised Property Valuation Review informed them the Grand List is the Listers Grand List as they have to sign off on it when they are comfortable with it.  Jim then confirmed that an extension is being requested until June 15^th, as the Grand List by statute is required to be filed by June 4^th.  Bill Johnson at PVR has indicated his approval to this timeframe.  Jim then advised after filing the Grand List the book advising property owners of their new appraisals has to be printed and mailed and hopefully by June 19^th the book will be in the mail.  The taxpayers then have two weeks from that point to file grievances, so realistically grievances will not be heard until beginning July 9^th or 10^th for a total of five days scheduled.  Walter Page then expressed concerns about the timeframe outlined by Jim in that the Town Clerk has to have property tax bills to the taxpayers by July 20^th.  He reminded the whole process was started in May of 2003 with the actual reappraisal being started in the spring of 2004 and completed for the 2005 tax bills.  Joe Poquette questioned how the grievances to be heard by the Board of Civil Authority (BCA) fit into the timeframe and Marie Kilbride advised it is her understanding there is no requirement around the BCA, that as soon as the grievances have been heard by the Listers and they have lodged a corrected Grand List as a result of those grievances, that list becomes the Grand List of the Town.  There are alterations after that, but at that point North Hero would have a Grand List.

New Business:

None.

Old Business:

None.

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

JUNE 5, 2006

PAGE 4

Executive Session:

Walter Page made a motion at 8:45 PM to enter into Executive Session and Larry Dupont placed a second.

The Selectboard came out of Executive Session at 9:12 PM.  Walter Page made a motion to rescind the previous decision concerning payment of an outstanding invoice to Purvis.  Larry Dupont seconded the motion and on a voice vote the motion was approved (3-0).

Larry Dupont made a motion to approve the extension for filing the Grand List to June 15^th as the due date for the Listers to have the Grand List completed and Walter Page seconded the motion.  On a voice vote the motion was approved (3-0).

Adjournment:

Walter Page made a motion to adjourn and Larry Dupont placed a second.  The meeting adjourned at 9:15 PM.

Respectfully submitted, 

  DRAFT

MINUTES OF MEETING

NORTH HERO SELECTBOARD

MAY 15, 2006

ATTENDEES:

Larry Dupont                            Marie Kilbride                          Walter Page

Jeff Potvin                                Ruth Miller

INVITED GUEST:

Jeffrey Moreau

GUESTS:

See attached.

Call Meeting to Order:

Co-Chair, Larry Dupont, called the meeting to order at 7:01 PM.

INVITED GUEST:

Jeff Moreau, representing the Franklin-Grand Isle United Way was recognized and gave a brief presentation, which included how to get information to people and he distributed their 2006 Resource Directory.  He pointed out that United Way has taken that information to the next level and developed a system called 2-1-1.  Dialing those numbers will give accessibility to a state-wide information and referral service, which was launched in early 2005.  Vermonters can place just one call for confidential, streamlined access to more than 3,500 health and human services throughout the state.  He also advised that a leadership program is being offered for 20 participants each year which is designed to give potential community leaders the training and confidence to become leaders.  Seminars are held once a month over a ten month period covering a vast array of public service areas.  He also touched briefly on how United Way is getting more and more involved in the communities.

GUESTS:

Jim Kilbride, Lister, was recognized and informed Steve Allen and Charlene Maynard from Purvis were in the office recently doing a great deal of data correction.  They expect to have the final version to the Listers by Friday, May 19^th.  He further advised that the preliminary Grand List is about $2.9 million, with an estimated CLA of about 1.25 to 1.20.  The deadline for filing the preliminary Grand List with the Town Clerk is June 4^th and the Listers are hopeful they can make that deadline.  The official notice to tax payers will be put out after that and grievances should be scheduled for approximately the third week of June.  The preliminary Grand List is submitted to the State of Vermont, who verify it and then create the CLA.  After that the List will be slightly adjusted by grievances, Board of Abatement decisions, etc.  Larry Dupont urged the Listers to provide an outline of the schedule to be published in The Islander and placed on the Town web page as well to keep the citizens of North Hero apprised.  Jim further advised that no further invoices will be paid to Purvis until the issues are resolved.  It was

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

MAY 15, 2006

PAGE 2

estimated that 80 percent of the contract with Purvis has been paid at this point.  The Listers were asked to report back to the Selectboard at their next meeting on June 5, 2006.

Minutes of May 1, 2006:

Jeff Potvin advised that he has not addressed any further the issue with the Rainville Road being Class 4 or a Class 3.

Larry Dupont advised he and Jeff Potvin have not yet gotten together with Kevin Daignault pertaining to Robin Rousseau’s employment evaluation.  This will be scheduled for the near future.

Walter Page made a motion to accept the minutes as written and Marie Kilbride placed a second.  There being no further discussion, the minutes were unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).

Zoning Bylaws – John Lambert:

Larry Dupont advised John had called him indicating he had not yet had a Public Hearing regarding the Bylaws, which is scheduled for May 22^nd.   John plans to attend the next meeting of the Selectboard.

Town Hall Options Selectboard Work Session:

Walter Page indicated the Town Hall Survey as presented is the closest thing he has seen which will allow the community to speak its piece.  He then moved to proceed with the survey.  He did indicate a serious reservation about doing so on the 6^th of June unless appropriate steps are taken to advise the community the survey will be available.  Larry Dupont clarified that the Selectboard will have the opportunity to discuss the survey with the community at the “Meet the Candidates” meeting on the 23^rd of May.  After further discussion, it was felt appropriate that a mailing be done advising the public of the meeting on the 23^rd as well as informing them that a survey will be available at the election scheduled for the 6^th of June.

Larry Dupont then read into the record the proposed Town Hall Survey.  A lengthy discussion was then held regarding the verbage of the first option in the survey.  Karl Raacke questioned the next step after receiving input from the community and was advised that the hope is that a couple of the options would be preferred and the Board would then do a more in depth research on those options prior to submitting them back to the voters.  Mike Sullivan felt the survey would be much simpler if the highlighted options only were placed on a survey without any further explanation.  Jeff Potvin also felt the wording of option one should be reworked with less verbage.  It was determined after further discussion that option one should be titled “Restoration of existing Town Hall working closely with interested groups”.   A lengthy discussion ensued regarding

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

MAY 15, 2006

PAGE 3

restoring the Town Hall in stages; placing the Town Office in the lower level and restoring the Hall portion as grants become available.  At this point Walter Page moved to accept the survey as modified and Jeff Potvin seconded the motion which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).

Walter Page felt another work session should be scheduled to work on a mailing to be   sent to the voters within the next few days. It was determined that a work session will be held on Wednesday, May 17^th at 7 a.m. in the Town Office. 

Meet the Candidates (May 23^rd) Preparation & Discussion:

Michael Sullivan was in attendance seeking guidance pertaining to the May 23^rd meeting.  It was determined the Moderator will introduce the Selectboard candidates, give each of them an opportunity to speak and then open it up to the floor for questions.  The same procedure will be followed for the Delinquent Tax Collector position.  Mike indicated he will give those in attendance the opportunity to pass on a written question rather than standing up to ask a question.  Following the candidates session, questions will be fielded by the Selectboard pertaining to the Town survey.

Bills/Budget:

The bills and warrant were circulated for signature approval.

Public Works Foreman:

Jeff Potvin indicated Kevin Daignault wasn’t able to attend the meeting for personal reasons and Jeff didn’t have anything significant to report.

Excess Weight Permit – Darryl L. Hayden:

Jeff Potvin made a motion to approve the permit and Marie Kilbride placed a second.  On a voice vote, the permit was unanimously approved and Jeff Potvin signed the permit on behalf of the Board.

Liquor License approval – Harborside Harvest Market:

Walter Page made a motion to recess the Selectboard meeting and enter into a meeting of the Liquor Control Board at 8:25 PM and Jeff Potvin seconded the motion.  Ruth Miller noted that a Liquor License Application was received pertaining to Harborside Harvest Market, formerly Robare’s Store.  The closing is scheduled for June 6^th and she recommended approval of the application contingent on the closing actually occurring.  Walter Page made a motion to approve the application with the contingency.  Jeff Potvin placed a second and on a voice vote the application was unanimously approved (4-0).  Walter Page then made a motion to come out of a meeting of the Liquor Control Board and Jeff Potvin placed a second.  The Board voted unanimously to reconvene the Selectboard Meeting.

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

MAY 15, 2006

PAGE 4

Driveway Permit approval – Neuhardt:

In reviewing the Driveway Permit, it was noted the second and third pages of the application were not attached.  After discussion, it was determined the application’s missing pages should be submitted, attached to the packet and approved by Kevin Daignault.  The Board members specifically gave Jeff Potvin permission to sign the application on behalf of the Board.

Board of Adjustment alternate appointment:

A written request was received from Chip Porter, Chair of the Board of Adjustment, requesting the Selectboard name Alison Rogers as alternate to the Board.  Marie Kilbride made a motion to appoint Alison Rogers and Jeff Potvin placed a second.  On a voice vote, the appointment was unanimously approved.  A letter addressed to Alison confirming the appointment was signed by all Board members.

Walter Page asked that the Board of Adjustment meeting schedule be discussed at the next meeting of the Selectboard with Chip Porter, Chair.

School:

            Survey results:  Larry Dupont asked if the Board should pursue the survey any further.  After further discussion it was determined a representative from the School Board, as well as Superintendent Richard Taylor should be invited to the next meeting of the Selectboard to discuss the survey.

            Reinblatt letter/statement:  A letter was received from Sharon and Gerry Reinblatt of 1343 Blockhouse Point Road asking for reimbursement of $150.00 they were charged for their split rail fence repair.  Apparently the Town plow damaged the fence.  It was determined the fence borders the Town turn around which is utilized for snow removal and also by the school bus.  The Reinblatt’s further stressed that maintenance of the turn around should not be solely their responsibility.  Jeff Potvin was asked to check out the turn around and a copy of the Reinblatt’s letter will be forwarded to the School.  The reimbursement of $150.00 was approved following a motion by Jeff Potvin and a second by Marie Kilbride.

Preliminary Discussion – Town tax rate:

It was noted an email was received on May 12, 2006 from the Vermont Tax Department indicating a base education rate of $1.44 nonresidential and $.95 homestead.  It was determined this topic should be placed on the agenda for the next Board meeting.

Correspondence:

A letter addressed to Vermont Municipalities from the Agency of Natural Resources, Department of Environmental Conservation, Water Quality Division requested their Public Notice for General Permit 3-9020 for discharges of stormwater runoff associated

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

MAY 15, 2006

PAGE 5

with construction activities be posted and a copy presented to local officials.  No action is required.

Reminders from the North Hero Town Clerk was received for informational purposes only. 

A notification was received from Ultramar stating their lock in prices for the next year.  Their deadline is May 26, 2006 for anyone who is interested in participating.  After discussion, it was determined Larry Dupont would research this further.

Old Business:

            Selectboard Responsibilities – Island Line Steering Committee:  Bart Wilcox has served on this Committee and has explained a possible forthcoming conflict of interest as he serves on the Board of Adjustment.  Walter Page was asked if he had interest in serving on this Committee and he agreed.  A notification will be sent to ILSC indicating Walter Page will be serving. 

NWSWD rep:  Larry Dupont indicated he had been approached by Bob Greenough, former rep to the NWSWD, questioning if someone had taken on that responsibility.  The Board indicated this will be addressed following the election of a fifth Board member.

Larry Dupont indicated he cannot fill the TAC position of the Northwest Regional Planning Commission and asked that a note be sent to John Lambert advising him.

Executive Session (if necessary):

Not necessary

 Adjournment:

Walter Page made a motion to adjourn and Jeff Potvin placed a second.  The meeting adjourned at 8:56 PM.

Respectfully submitted,  

DRAFT

MINUTES OF MEETING

NORTH HERO SELECTBOARD

MAY 1, 2006

ATTENDEES:

Larry Dupont                            Marie Kilbride                          Walter Page

Jeff Potvin                                Kevin Daignault                        Ruth Miller

INVITED GUESTS:

John Lambert                          

GUESTS:

See attached.

Call Meeting to Order:

Co-Chair, Marie Kilbride, called the meeting to order at 7:02 PM.

Bart Wilcox was recognized and spoke in support of seeking representation on the Island Line Steering Committee.  He distributed a summary of his request (copy attached).  Marie Kilbride advised that the Board would take his request under advisement and place it on a future Selectboard agenda.  Larry Dupont requested documentation behind Bart’s request.

Chip Porter, Chair of the Board of Adjustment, had requested the Selectboard appoint two alternates to the Board and approval was obtained for one alternate for a two-year term at their meeting on April 17^th.  He asked for clarification and renewed his request for the two alternate positions.  After a lengthy discussion, it was determined Chip should submit a name recommended by the Board of Adjustment for an additional appointment by the Selectboard. 

Minutes of April 17, 2006:

Jeff Potvin made a motion to approve the minutes of April 17, 2006 and Larry Dupont placed a second.

Walter Page noted a change in dates pertaining to the Special Election to be held on June 6, 2006, compared to what had been discussed at a prior meeting.  Ruth Miller advised the dates had been changed after corresponding with the Secretary of State’s office, as previously the vote was scheduled for Monday, June 5^th, which would not allow voters to pick up absentee ballots the day before the election.  It was noted the Town Moderator has indicated he will be available for the May 23^rd “Meet the Candidates Night”. 

Marie Kilbride advised that a couple of meetings prior she had discussed the minutes in a way that she realized in retrospect was both hasty and not well thought out.  As a result, her comments were inappropriate and wrong and she apologized to Ruth Miller for them. 

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

MAY 1, 2006

PAGE 2

She also indicated she recognizes she and Ruth need to maintain a professional working relationship and she really does want that to happen.  In the future, when she has concerns about the minutes or any corrections in any way, she will be sure to address herself entirely to the minutes.

Larry Dupont questioned if John Lambert had researched the road access to the cell tower and John advised he had and a letter will be sent to the Guillette’s stating there is no public road access to the tower.  Jack Miller added the access has to remain a grass area and it cannot become a gravel road.

Larry also pointed out on page 2, paragraph 4, that an employment evaluation needs to be scheduled pertaining to Robin Rousseau.  This is to be accomplished within the next 10 days. 

Larry questioned if the Rainville Road was changed from a Class 4 to a Class 3 and Jeff Potvin indicated he had had Kevin Daignault check the maps and apparently they all indicate it’s a Class 3.  Kevin advised he has a call in to Randy Reed to see if he can assist with this question.

Town Office Update & Discussion:

Larry Dupont advised the Selectboard is seeking some suggestions on how to move forward with the process and have invited John Lambert, Chair of the Planning Commission to the meeting for his input.  John reminded he does not speak for the Commission, however, if the Selectboard wishes to get information from the Commission, he is willing to approach them informally so that it isn’t binding at this point because he doesn’t know what the Selectboard will end up bringing to the Commission. He did point out that Section 417 of the proposed bylaws outlines minimum lot size, minimum density and total area required.  He then pointed out Section 352 which outlines a Planned Unit Development (PUD) and what would be required, as well as the preliminary criteria for a PUD cannot be met at the current Town Hall site.  He also stressed that when a variance is sought, you have to not have created the reason for the variance.  He urged the Selectboard to either write the Commission outlining questions or concerns or the Selectboard could meet with the Commission at some point in the future.

Jack Miller advised he had received a copy of a letter from Mike Burke at Krebs & Lansing advising the test pits behind the existing Town Hall indicate that area has potential to be a replacement wastewater disposal system for the Town Hall and it is Mike’s opinion the State will not issue a permit to place a new building behind the Town Hall because of the test results.  Jack stressed if this is the case, why would the Board continue to seek information from the Planning Commission, etc., when it’s not a feasible concept.  Marie Kilbride then read the letter from Mike Burke dated April 28, 2006 into the record.  It was determined that the contents of the letter don’t close the door on

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

MAY 1, 2006

PAGE 3

constructing a new building behind the existing Town Hall, as the monitoring season does not end until the end of May. 

Marie Kilbride pointed out other options can be pursued as the Selectboard awaits the test results and informed that individually the Selectboard members have begun a conversation as to how they can lead the Town to some resolution.  One option is to ask the Town what their pleasure will be regarding the Town Hall structure.  Walter Page reiterated that the only way to find out what the Town wants pertaining to the Town Hall is to ask the Town directly.  He suggested a working session of the Board and after further discussion, a session was scheduled for Tuesday, May 9^th at 7 PM in the Library at the North Hero School.  Larry Dupont reminded this is a work session and no action will be taken.  If any action is required, it would be taken up at a regular meeting of the Selectboard.  Walter Page also reminded that the Selectboard will not discuss and vote on any matter that is not warned on the agenda with the exception of emergency administrative items at the end of the meeting under New Business.  He stressed that items will not be taken up for discussion and voted under Old Business and that when one reviews the agenda for a Selectboard meeting that is what will be discussed.

Zoning Bylaws, John Lambert, et al:

John Lambert reminded that House Bill 117 necessitated changes to the bylaws and an Ad Hoc Subcommittee was formed which included Paul Healy, Chip Porter, Mary Jane Healy, Peter Johnson, Jeanine Pratt and Shauna Hauser.  They were tasked to pull together what requirements were mandated by the State, stressing the changes actually fell into three categories; 1) procedural (what the boards do and how they do it), 2) administrative (how things are posted, etc.), and 3) is substantive (some were negotiable and some were added by the Subcommittee).

Individual sections were then discussed which included Section 453 Subordinate Dwelling Units, Section 464 Travel Trailers, Section 370 Noncomplying Uses and Section 385 Appeals.  Larry Dupont suggested John Lambert be invited back to the May 15^th meeting of the Selectboard for his further input on the discussed sections.  John Also reminded that a public hearing is scheduled for Monday, May 22, 2006.

Bills/Budget:

The bills and warrant were circulated for approval without question.

Public Works Foreman:

Kevin Daignault advised that a grant has been obtained for the repairs to South End Road, which will cover most of the expense involved.  Kevin further advised that Jim Smith of Smith Technical Services was the Highway Technician who outlined the design and plan for the road repairs prior to submission of the grant paperwork and he will be overseeing the project.

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

MAY 1, 2006

PAGE 4

Water:

Joe Poquette advised the Interlocal Agreement is at the attorney’s office for review and   the Water Board was happy with its contents prior to its being forwarded to the attorney.

Joe also advised there was a water leak on April 30^th that was repaired.

Excess Weight Permit:

Marie Kilbride advised that one Excess Weight Permit has been submitted from Palmer Construction for approval.  Walter Page made a motion to approve and Jeff Potvin seconded the motion, which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).

Vermont Municipal Bond Bank loan agreement:

Loan documents were received from the Vermont Municipal Bond Bank requiring signatures for the General Obligation Bond in the amount of $422,344.20 payable in installments on July 1 of each year through 2024.  The documents were signed by the Selectboard members.

Lake Champlain Islands Chamber of Commerce cover letter:

A letter of support for the Creative Communities Grant application by the Lake Champlain Island Chamber of Commerce was signed by the Selectboard members.

Mr. & Mrs. Paul Clark letter:

A letter of congratulations to Paul and Anne Clark for their having been featured recently on the cover of Business People was signed by the Selectboard members.

Official Warning Town vote June 6, 2006:

The official warning for the town vote scheduled for June 6, 2006, was signed by all Selectboard members.

Correspondence:

Pike Industries, Inc. has advised of price increases effective April 20, 2006.

Champlain Island Parent-Child Centers correspondence was received indicating they would like to provide the Selectboard with a tour of the Center and an opportunity for them to view the new building site.

VT Department of Education Municipality Reconciliation apprises North Hero of the  payment due on June 1, 2006 in the amount of $876,938.

Commercial Property Policy Changes notification was received indicating a change in commercial property coverage pertaining to the Fire Department Equipment effective 3/29/2006.

Green building at landfill memo from Town Clerk advises David Campbell was notified April 22, 2006 that his 30-day deadline to remove the building from the landfill began as of that date.

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

MAY 1, 2006

PAGE 5

North Hero Planning Commission notification has been received advising that a final public hearing pertaining to the Bylaws will be scheduled in May.

A copy of an email forwarded by the Town Clerk to Joe Behrsing at The Johnson Company was noted advising him to complete the sampling at the landfill as has been done in previous years during the month of May.

An email confirmation has been received from Mike Sullivan, Town Moderator, advising he will be available to moderate the Meet the Candidates Night on May 23^rd.

A copy of a Joint House Resolution was received recognizing that all Vermont firefighters and emergency medical service (EMS) personnel provide a professional level of service to their communities.

An email has been received from the Director of Elections and Campaign Finance from the Secretary of State’s office that training for the vote tabulation machine will occur on May 24^th from 2-4 PM. 

New Business:

None

Old Business:

None

Executive Session (if necessary):

Not necessary.

Adjournment:

Walter Page made a motion to adjourn and Jeff Potvin seconded the motion.  The meeting adjourned at 8:25 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

MAY 1, 2006

ATTENDEES:

Larry Dupont                            Marie Kilbride                          Walter Page

Jeff Potvin                                Kevin Daignault                        Ruth Miller

INVITED GUESTS:

John Lambert                          

GUESTS:

See attached.

Call Meeting to Order:

Co-Chair, Marie Kilbride, called the meeting to order at 7:02 PM.

Bart Wilcox was recognized and spoke in support of seeking representation on the Island Line Steering Committee.  He distributed a summary of his request (copy attached).  Marie Kilbride advised that the Board would take his request under advisement and place it on a future Selectboard agenda.  Larry Dupont requested documentation behind Bart’s request.

Chip Porter, Chair of the Board of Adjustment, had requested the Selectboard appoint two alternates to the Board and approval was obtained for one alternate for a two-year term at their meeting on April 17^th.  He asked for clarification and renewed his request for the two alternate positions.  After a lengthy discussion, it was determined Chip should submit a name recommended by the Board of Adjustment for an additional appointment by the Selectboard. 

Minutes of April 17, 2006:

Jeff Potvin made a motion to approve the minutes of April 17, 2006 and Larry Dupont placed a second.

Walter Page noted a change in dates pertaining to the Special Election to be held on June 6, 2006, compared to what had been discussed at a prior meeting.  Ruth Miller advised the dates had been changed after corresponding with the Secretary of State’s office, as previously the vote was scheduled for Monday, June 5^th, which would not allow voters to pick up absentee ballots the day before the election.  It was noted the Town Moderator has indicated he will be available for the May 23^rd “Meet the Candidates Night”. 

Marie Kilbride advised that a couple of meetings prior she had discussed the minutes in a way that she realized in retrospect was both hasty and not well thought out.  As a result, her comments were inappropriate and wrong and she apologized to Ruth Miller for them. 

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

MAY 1, 2006

PAGE 2

She also indicated she recognizes she and Ruth need to maintain a professional working relationship and she really does want that to happen.  In the future, when she has concerns about the minutes or any corrections in any way, she will be sure to address herself entirely to the minutes.

Larry Dupont questioned if John Lambert had researched the road access to the cell tower and John advised he had and a letter will be sent to the Guillette’s stating there is no public road access to the tower.  Jack Miller added the access has to remain a grass area and it cannot become a gravel road.

Larry also pointed out on page 2, paragraph 4, that an employment evaluation needs to be scheduled pertaining to Robin Rousseau.  This is to be accomplished within the next 10 days. 

Larry questioned if the Rainville Road was changed from a Class 4 to a Class 3 and Jeff Potvin indicated he had had Kevin Daignault check the maps and apparently they all indicate it’s a Class 3.  Kevin advised he has a call in to Randy Reed to see if he can assist with this question.

Town Office Update & Discussion:

Larry Dupont advised the Selectboard is seeking some suggestions on how to move forward with the process and have invited John Lambert, Chair of the Planning Commission to the meeting for his input.  John reminded he does not speak for the Commission, however, if the Selectboard wishes to get information from the Commission, he is willing to approach them informally so that it isn’t binding at this point because he doesn’t know what the Selectboard will end up bringing to the Commission. He did point out that Section 417 of the proposed bylaws outlines minimum lot size, minimum density and total area required.  He then pointed out Section 352 which outlines a Planned Unit Development (PUD) and what would be required, as well as the preliminary criteria for a PUD cannot be met at the current Town Hall site.  He also stressed that when a variance is sought, you have to not have created the reason for the variance.  He urged the Selectboard to either write the Commission outlining questions or concerns or the Selectboard could meet with the Commission at some point in the future.

Jack Miller advised he had received a copy of a letter from Mike Burke at Krebs & Lansing advising the test pits behind the existing Town Hall indicate that area has potential to be a replacement wastewater disposal system for the Town Hall and it is Mike’s opinion the State will not issue a permit to place a new building behind the Town Hall because of the test results.  Jack stressed if this is the case, why would the Board continue to seek information from the Planning Commission, etc., when it’s not a feasible concept.  Marie Kilbride then read the letter from Mike Burke dated April 28, 2006 into the record.  It was determined that the contents of the letter don’t close the door on

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

MAY 1, 2006

PAGE 3

constructing a new building behind the existing Town Hall, as the monitoring season does not end until the end of May. 

Marie Kilbride pointed out other options can be pursued as the Selectboard awaits the test results and informed that individually the Selectboard members have begun a conversation as to how they can lead the Town to some resolution.  One option is to ask the Town what their pleasure will be regarding the Town Hall structure.  Walter Page reiterated that the only way to find out what the Town wants pertaining to the Town Hall is to ask the Town directly.  He suggested a working session of the Board and after further discussion, a session was scheduled for Tuesday, May 9^th at 7 PM in the Library at the North Hero School.  Larry Dupont reminded this is a work session and no action will be taken.  If any action is required, it would be taken up at a regular meeting of the Selectboard.  Walter Page also reminded that the Selectboard will not discuss and vote on any matter that is not warned on the agenda with the exception of emergency administrative items at the end of the meeting under New Business.  He stressed that items will not be taken up for discussion and voted under Old Business and that when one reviews the agenda for a Selectboard meeting that is what will be discussed.

Zoning Bylaws, John Lambert, et al:

John Lambert reminded that House Bill 117 necessitated changes to the bylaws and an Ad Hoc Subcommittee was formed which included Paul Healy, Chip Porter, Mary Jane Healy, Peter Johnson, Jeanine Pratt and Shauna Hauser.  They were tasked to pull together what requirements were mandated by the State, stressing the changes actually fell into three categories; 1) procedural (what the boards do and how they do it), 2) administrative (how things are posted, etc.), and 3) is substantive (some were negotiable and some were added by the Subcommittee).

Individual sections were then discussed which included Section 453 Subordinate Dwelling Units, Section 464 Travel Trailers, Section 370 Noncomplying Uses and Section 385 Appeals.  Larry Dupont suggested John Lambert be invited back to the May 15^th meeting of the Selectboard for his further input on the discussed sections.  John Also reminded that a public hearing is scheduled for Monday, May 22, 2006.

Bills/Budget:

The bills and warrant were circulated for approval without question.

Public Works Foreman:

Kevin Daignault advised that a grant has been obtained for the repairs to South End Road, which will cover most of the expense involved.  Kevin further advised that Jim Smith of Smith Technical Services was the Highway Technician who outlined the design and plan for the road repairs prior to submission of the grant paperwork and he will be overseeing the project.

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

MAY 1, 2006

PAGE 4

Water:

Joe Poquette advised the Interlocal Agreement is at the attorney’s office for review and   the Water Board was happy with its contents prior to its being forwarded to the attorney.

Joe also advised there was a water leak on April 30^th that was repaired.

Excess Weight Permit:

Marie Kilbride advised that one Excess Weight Permit has been submitted from Palmer Construction for approval.  Walter Page made a motion to approve and Jeff Potvin seconded the motion, which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).

Vermont Municipal Bond Bank loan agreement:

Loan documents were received from the Vermont Municipal Bond Bank requiring signatures for the General Obligation Bond in the amount of $422,344.20 payable in installments on July 1 of each year through 2024.  The documents were signed by the Selectboard members.

Lake Champlain Islands Chamber of Commerce cover letter:

A letter of support for the Creative Communities Grant application by the Lake Champlain Island Chamber of Commerce was signed by the Selectboard members.

Mr. & Mrs. Paul Clark letter:

A letter of congratulations to Paul and Anne Clark for their having been featured recently on the cover of Business People was signed by the Selectboard members.

Official Warning Town vote June 6, 2006:

The official warning for the town vote scheduled for June 6, 2006, was signed by all Selectboard members.

Correspondence:

Pike Industries, Inc. has advised of price increases effective April 20, 2006.

Champlain Island Parent-Child Centers correspondence was received indicating they would like to provide the Selectboard with a tour of the Center and an opportunity for them to view the new building site.

VT Department of Education Municipality Reconciliation apprises North Hero of the  payment due on June 1, 2006 in the amount of $876,938.

Commercial Property Policy Changes notification was received indicating a change in commercial property coverage pertaining to the Fire Department Equipment effective 3/29/2006.

Green building at landfill memo from Town Clerk advises David Campbell was notified April 22, 2006 that his 30-day deadline to remove the building from the landfill began as of that date.

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

MAY 1, 2006

PAGE 5

North Hero Planning Commission notification has been received advising that a final public hearing pertaining to the Bylaws will be scheduled in May.

A copy of an email forwarded by the Town Clerk to Joe Behrsing at The Johnson Company was noted advising him to complete the sampling at the landfill as has been done in previous years during the month of May.

An email confirmation has been received from Mike Sullivan, Town Moderator, advising he will be available to moderate the Meet the Candidates Night on May 23^rd.

A copy of a Joint House Resolution was received recognizing that all Vermont firefighters and emergency medical service (EMS) personnel provide a professional level of service to their communities.

An email has been received from the Director of Elections and Campaign Finance from the Secretary of State’s office that training for the vote tabulation machine will occur on May 24^th from 2-4 PM. 

New Business:

None

Old Business:

None

Executive Session (if necessary):

Not necessary.

Adjournment:

Walter Page made a motion to adjourn and Jeff Potvin seconded the motion.  The meeting adjourned at 8:25 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

DRAFT

MINUTES OF MEETING

NORTH HERO SELECTBOARD

APRIL 17, 2006 

ATTENDEES:

Larry Dupont                                        Marie Kilbride                          Walter Page

Jeff Potvin                                            Ruth Miller

 GUESTS:

See attached list. 

Call Meeting to Order:

Co-Chair, Larry Dupont, called the meeting to order at 7 PM. 

Guests:

None 

Minutes of April 11, 2006:

Jeff Potvin made a motion to approve the minutes and Marie Kilbride placed a second.  On a voice vote the minutes were unanimously approved as written (4-0).

A brief discussion occurred regarding the 5-Year Resurfacing Plan and it was felt the Plan should be updated and the process be restarted once again.

Zoning Bylaws Review/Planning Commission’s recommendation for Knight’s Point:

John Lambert explained the process leading up to final approval of the Zoning Bylaws (see attached).  John suggested the Bylaws should be an agenda item for the May 1^st meeting of the Board.

John then advised that in 1997, Roger Landry, then Zoning Administrator, cited the State of Vermont, the problem apparently just went away, but the citation was never lifted.  The Planning Commission voted to recommend to the Selectboard to forgive the fine and rescind the violation at its April 10, 2006 meeting.  Jeff Potvin made a motion to forgive the fine and Marie Kilbride seconded the motion which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).

Larry Dupont advised he had been approached by the owners of the property that has a road access across it to the cell tower questioning if the access could be changed into a road or is it to be a lawn area.  Chairman Lambert advised he would research this and report back to the property owner.

Board of Adjustment Alternate:

A letter from the Chair of the Board of Adjustment indicates a recommendation for two alternates to be appointed to the Board.  After a lengthy discussion, Jeff Potvin made a motion to appoint one alternate and Marie Kilbride seconded the motion.  After

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

APRIL 17, 2006

PAGE 2

further discussion, Jeff amended his motion to appoint one alternate for a two year term.  On a voice vote the motion was unanimously approved (4-0). 

Selectboard Responsibilities:

A revised listing of Selectboard responsibilities was distributed with Walter Page removed from School/Act 68, Jeff Potvin removed as the representative to the Solid Waste District meetings and his being added to Public Works Budget.  All Board members indicated satisfaction with the revised list.

Bills/Budget:

The bills and warrant were circulated for approval without question.

Public Works Foreman:

Larry Dupont noted a letter was received from Robin Rousseau, Assistant Public Works for vacation time from May 6 to May 22, 2006 without pay.  Jeff Potvin indicated Robin had had the vacation planned prior to his employment with the Town and he had talked this over with Kevin and the time away was felt acceptable to all involved.  Jeff then questioned the probationary period and Ruth Miller indicated she had researched this agreement in the minutes of 9/19/05, which indicate an evaluation would occur after a three month probationary period.  Robin began employment on 10/17/05.  It was determined that Jeff Potvin and Larry Dupont would do the evaluation sometime in the near future. 

Water:

A letter dated April 5, 2006 addressed to the Water Board and copied to the Selectboard was received on April 10, 2006 from the South Alburgh Fire District No. 2 pertaining to the Interlocal Agreement between the Town of North Hero and the South Alburgh Fire District No. 2 (see attached).  Joe Poquette indicated that the letter is a response after Alburgh’s annual meeting and as soon as there is more substantial discussion, the Selectboard will be included in a Water Board/Selectboard combined meeting, but members of the Selectboard are always welcome to attend Water Board meetings.

Excess Weight Permits:

Permits were received from R.J. Piche Excavating, Inc., David Couture, Beaulac Excavating, LLC, Gauthier Trucking Company, Irick Excavating, LLC, United Paving Company, R&J Trucking, Brian Lyman and Premier Paving, Inc.  Larry Dupont called for a motion to approve and have an individual from the Board sign on behalf of the Board.  Jeff Potvin made a motion to approve and sign and Marie Kilbride seconded the motion.  There being no discussion, the motion was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

APRIL 17, 2006

PAGE 3

Correspondence:

A letter was received from The Johnson Company advising Landfill Monitoring Well Sampling will be performed in May.  Marie Kilbride made a motion to have them do the landfill sampling and Walter Page seconded the motion.  There being no further discussion, the motion was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0). 

The Vermont Agency of Transportation forwarded a 2006 Certificate of Highway Mileage confirmation for the Town files.  Joe Poquette questioned the status of the Rainville Road from the turn around point to the west, indicating this may have been changed from a Class 4 to a Class 3.  Following a lengthy discussion, Jeff Potvin was asked to follow-up and report back at a future meeting.

Notification was received from Frank W. Whitcomb Construction Corporation of a 7.5% price increase due to higher production costs.

A memorandum was received from the State of Vermont Policy and Planning Division concerning the 2007 enhancements program schedule and process which indicated a pre-application letter needs to be received by June 2, 2006.  Final and complete applications are due by 4:30 PM on August 18, 2006.  This pertains in particular to construction and reconstruction of Town salt sheds and does not apply to North Hero.

Municipal Leasing Consultants sent information about their providing financing for future equipment purchases or refinancing.

A letter of thanks was received from the Franklin/Grand Isle Emergency Food Shelf for North Hero’s participation in the Town Meeting Day Food Drive.

A memo was received from the NW Regional Planning Commission regarding a Regional ATV Access public discussion scheduled for municipalities in the Northwest region.

The State of Vermont Agency of Transportation submitted a memorandum regarding Town Grants for FY2007.

A Report on the Alburgh Town Plan Revision was received and is available in the Town Office for review.

New Business:

None

Old Business:

Garbage trucks on private roads-Jeff Potvin:

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

APRIL 17, 2006

PAGE 4

Jeff Potvin advised he had checked into garbage trucks on private roads and it should be noted the Town has no say regarding private roads.

Board of Abatement input on property tax payment balances:

Ruth Miller advised she had called Anne Dorwaldt on April 14^th, following a telephone call to Cheryl Vantine in Grand Isle.  Cheryl advised initially they had established a $5 limit on either a credit or balance due.  The situation was then discussed with Anne, who was really hesitant to call a Board of Abatement meeting to discuss something of this nature.  She also felt that as long as Ruth had covered this topic with another town that has the same software as North Hero, it seems reasonable to also do the $5 limit.  Ruth reported the least amount she has for a credit is $12.66.  Anne agreed that a letter should be written to the property owners involved, advising them of the credits and that the amounts will be applied to next years property taxes unless they object.  Walter Page made a motion to approve the outlined procedure and Jeff Potvin seconded the motion.  On a voice vote the motion was unanimously approved (4-0).

Special Election dates-Selectboard Member/Delinquent Tax Collector:

Larry Dupont reminded that a Special Town Meeting was approved by the Selectboard for the election of a fifth Selectboard member, as well as a Delinquent Tax Collector.  Ruth Miller was asked to read the Official Notice which will be posted announcing a Special Town Meeting to be held on Tuesday, June 6, 2006 to elect a Selectboard member, as well as a Delinquent Tax Collector for the term ending March 6, 2007.  Petitions of those seeking the positions will be accepted at the Town Office until 5 PM on Monday, May 1, 2006.  Ruth further advised she had contacted Kathy DeWolfe at the Secretary of State’s office asking her for a confirmation of the timeframe involved for a Special Town Meeting.  Kathy confirmed that it is the same timeframe that is utilized for March Meeting.  Petitions have to be in the Town Office on the sixth Monday preceding the election.  It is also customary to give the public at least a 10-day period to get their petitions in to the Town Office.  After a lengthy discussion, Walter Page made a motion to approve the Official Notice for posting and Marie Kilbride seconded the motion, which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).   After further discussion, it was determined a “Meet the Candidates Night” would be scheduled for Tuesday, May 23, 2006 at 7 PM at the North Hero School.   It was suggested that a letter be forwarded to the Town Moderator questioning his availability to Moderate the May 23^rd meeting.  Ruth Miller advised that petition forms are available at the Town Office for interested parties.

5-Year Resurfacing Plan:

Discussed under Minutes of April 11, 2006.

Certificate of Liability Insurance – Ruth Miller:

A certificate of Liability Insurance was provided as requested to the Town from John P. and Ruth M. Miller.

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

APRIL 17, 2006

PAGE 5

FLW Fishing Tournament – Larry Dupont:

Larry Dupont advised he had met with the Chamber of Commerce and the FLW folks would like to hold a tournament from Burlington up through the Islands in 2007.  Larry passed on to the individuals involved in the planning process that the North Hero Selectboard supports their holding this tournament in the area and he plans to attend future planning meetings for the tournament. 

Northwest VT Public Transit Board rep (purple bus):

Larry Dupont reminded that Joyce Tuck had attended the April 11, 2006 Selectboard meeting urging representation from North Hero on their Board.  Larry advised he had attempted to find someone in the community to be a representative, but so far had not been successful.

It was noted that Anne and Paul Clark are pictured on the cover of the April 2006 issue of Business People.  It was suggested that a congratulatory letter from the Selectboard to the Clarks would be nice.

Joe Poquette questioned the status of the monitoring of the test pits behind the Town Hall and Jeff Potvin advised the monitoring had just started and is being done twice a week, but were supposed to have started in March.  He also indicated he didn’t know the results but would bring the results to the next meeting of the Board.  A discussion then ensued about the timeframe of the monitoring and it was determined because the monitoring wasn’t completed as to the predetermined schedule, that Larry Dupont would contact Krebs & Lansing asking for guidance.

Executive Session:

Walter Page made a motion to recess the Selectboard meeting and enter into Executive Session for a personnel issue at 8:35 PM.  Marie Kilbride seconded the motion and the Board entered into Executive Session.

Larry Dupont noted that the Selectboard came out of Executive Session at 9:03 PM and no action was taken by the Board.

Marie Kilbride urged that an item be placed on the next Board agenda for a discussion that ultimately leads to some kind of presentation to the voters as to what they want to do with the Town Hall and where they would like to locate the Town Offices.  Larry Dupont reminded that there is a positive bond vote outstanding and felt it would not be appropriate to “engage the community in another direction if you still have something out there”.  He felt that needs to be dealt with first.  A lengthy discussion then ensued regarding the Selectboard seeking the will of the community and it was determined that the Co-Chairs should seek the opinion of John Lambert, Planning Commission Chair and John should be invited to the next meeting of the Board for further discussion as to the

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

APRIL 17, 2006

PAGE 6

feasibility of constructing a building behind the existing Town Hall per the Town’s zoning bylaws.

Adjournament:

Jeff Potvin made a motion to adjourn at 9:25 PM and Walter Page seconded the motion.  The meeting adjourned.

Respectfully submitted,

DRAFT

MINUTES OF MEETING

NORTH HERO SELECTBOARD

APRIL 11, 2006

ATTENDEES: 

Larry Dupont                                      Marie Kilbride                        Walter Page

Jeff Potvin                                          Ruth Miller

GUESTS:

See attached list.

Call Meeting to Order:

Co-Chair, Marie Kilbride, called the meeting to order at 7 PM.

Guests:

Joyce Tuck representing the Board of the Northwest Vermont Public Transit (the purple bus) pointed out that North Hero is entitled to representation on their Board and urged more involvement, which would only benefit North Hero. 

Michael Murdock advised that a result of the ice rescue incident which occurred in March was damage to driveways on Poquette Lane.  He advised he would be drafting a letter of apology to the property owners, which would also seek approval to access their property to repair the damage.  After discussion, Walter Page made a motion to utilize Public Works to do the repairs and Jeff Potvin placed a second.  On a voice vote the motion was unanimously approved (4-0).

Minutes of March 20, 2006:

Walter Page reiterated on Page 6, last paragraph, that a person not on the Board had purported to represent the Board and wanted this to be clear in the minutes.

Larry Dupont questioned Walter’s motion made to place collection of delinquent taxes on the ballot at the next special meeting or at the next Town Meeting.  Walt clarified the minutes should read “at the next meeting” on Page 6, paragraph 1. 

Marie Kilbride questioned Page 7, last paragraph, New Town Office Committee noted by Larry Dupont. Walter Page felt this should be eliminated from the minutes as there is no Town Office Committee. 

Marie Kilbride expressed concern about the “uneven level of detail” in the minutes.  Walter Page immediately responded indicating he did not share this view at all.   Karl Raacke expressed concern that his son was alledgedly bitten in the Town Office and the minutes didn’t reflect this.

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

APRIL 11, 2006

PAGE 2

Page 4, paragraph 6, Jeff Potvin advised he had not done any follow-up concerning garbage trucks on private roads.

Page 4, paragraph 7, regarding posted roads.  Jeff Potvin advised he had spoken with Kevin Daignault about this and he thought West Shore Road should be posted, preventing trucks from entering from both ends.

Larry Dupont then questioned if Paul Yandow’s signature had been obtained.  Jeff Potvin advised he had visited Paul, examined the shoreline and Paul had signed the consent.

Walter Page questioned discussing follow-ups under Minutes rather than under Old Business. 

Walter Page advised he had checked into enclosed posting areas with the two Town stores and this was agreed to as long as the Town builds and installs the boxes.  Walter then indicated this is a motion to be considered and Larry Dupont seconded the motion.  On a voice vote this was unanimously approved (4-0).

Marie Kilbride then advised that with no further corrections to the minutes being indicated, the minutes are accepted as corrected.

Knight’s State Park parking access/boat launch:

Bill Champagne, John Roy, John Guilmette and Chuck Woessner were then recognized and presented a preliminary plan for a boat launch and fishing access on Route 2 across from Knight’s State Park.  After considerable discussion and shared concerns and ideas, Jeff Potvin made a motion for the Board to support the concept and be included in future exploration.  Larry Dupont seconded the motion, which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).

Zoning Bylaws:

John Lambert distributed copies of North Hero’s Zoning Bylaws, which include revisions per House Bill 117.  He advised the Bylaws were approved by the Planning Commission at their meeting on April 10, 2006 and are being distributed to the Board for their review and discussion at the next meeting of the Board.  He then outlined the timeframe and steps involved for approving the revised bylaws. 

Property tax payment balances:

Michael Chrastina, Constable, was in attendance questioning procedure for handling outstanding balances due totaling less than $5.00 and overpayments of

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

APRIL 11, 2006

PAGE 3

less than $5.00.  Larry Dupont suggested contacting other towns to see how they handle these balances and Ruth Miller was asked to contact the Board of Abatement for their input.

Reappraisal Update:

Bill Orcutt advised that a couple of months prior a diskette was received from Purvis and in checking the data the Listers have found significant errors and omissions.  Five or six packets have been sent to Purvis asking for corrections and three of the five drawers of property files have been reviewed by the Listers.  He indicated concern about completing the reappraisal process by the 1^st of May.  A bill has been received from Purvis for $7,880 and it is the Listers belief that bill should not be approved for payment until they feel better about the data.  Purvis has been contacted that the Listers want to see data changes made and correction of errors found and a plan on how they will fix the situation.  The Listers then requested that a conditional warrant be signed by the Board, so that when the data is reviewed and they feel it is correct, they can sign off on the invoice and the bill can then be paid.  If the data is unsatisfactory, then the Listers would not authorize payment of the invoice.  He did note that about 11% would still be held back from Purvis following payment of the current invoice.  Jeff Potvin made a motion to sign the warrant conditionally per the recommendation of the Listers and Larry Dupont seconded the motion.  After further discussion, it was determined that a notation be made on the warrant that this invoice will be paid per the motion. 

Review of Selectboard applicants:

Walter Page made a motion to appoint Joe Poquette to fill the vacancy for the balance of the term created by Bob Greenough’s resignation.  Joe Poquette was then recognized and gave a brief overview of his family ties, a summary of Town projects he has been involved with and why he is interested in serving on the Selectboard.  He expressed concern about the division of the Town that has resulted over the last few years and felt this was a priority to be addressed by the Board.   David Jacobs also was recognized and gave a brief narrative of his interest in serving.  It was noted that two other citizens who indicated an interest in serving were not in attendance.  A lengthy discussion then ensued regarding appointment to the vacant position, the procedure used to date in advertising the position and the possibility of a special election to let the electorate decide.  Walter Page reminded there is a motion on the floor and Larry Dupont then seconded the motion.  Joe Poquette questioned who the other interest parties are and Marie Kilbride informed that Doug Robertson, Chip Porter, David Jacobs and Joe Poquette had submitted letters.  Walter Page then called the question and on a show of hands two Selectboard members, Marie Kilbride and Jeff Potvin voted against the appointment of Joe

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

APRIL 11, 2006

PAGE 4

Poquette and Walter Page and Larry Dupont voted for the appointment.    Walter Page then made a motion to warn a special election to fill the vacancy.  Jeff Potvin seconded the motion, which was unanimously approved by a show of hands (4-0).   Larry Dupont then advised by statute the date set for a meeting must not be less than 30 days nor more than 40 days from the date the meeting was warned and called.  In reviewing dates, it was determined the special election will be held on Monday, May 15^th with a “meet the candidates” meeting scheduled following the Selectboard meeting on May 1^st at 7:30 PM. 

Bills/Budget:

Larry Dupont advised there is a line item included on the warrant for $16,000, plus interest of $1,428 for the payment due on the three-year note at the Chittenden for North Hero’s share of the Grand Isle ambulance.  He informed the interest was not included in the current year’s budget and it should be noted for the next budgetary planning to make sure the interest gets included.  Ruth Miller than presented documents for signature from the Chittenden Bank for a Capital Equipment Refunding Note for $32,000 to be paid over the next two years.  She advised the refunding needs approval as it is due on April 19^th.  Larry Dupont made a motion to sign the Note and Walter Page placed a second.    The motion was unanimously approved on a voice note (4-0).

Due to the lateness of the hour, Marie Kilbride then questioned if anyone in attendance would like to have anything further addressed by the Board at the current time, rather than wait for the topic as outlined on the agenda.  Bev Poquette was then recognized and expressed concern about dissension among the townspeople and expressed concern over the comment made by Marie Kilbride regarding the quality of the minutes.  Bev felt a comment such as that should have been made in Executive Session.  It wasn’t a specific question, it wasn’t a specific correction, but was interpreted by Bev as an attacking comment and indicated she had lost respect for Marie in doing something like that publicly and it seemed quite unprofessional to approach it in the way she did.  Marie felt it was not her “intention to hurt anyone’s feelings” and if she did that, then she apologized.

Mary Jane Healy then raised the question of cost involved for a special election.  Ruth Miller advised there are a number of people involved.  The Board of Civil Authority members, volunteers, and it’s a day of the Town Clerk’s time.  Organizational time on the part of the Town Clerk adds up to many hours spent as is the case with any election.  It’s impossible to estimate what the cost is dollar-wise, but certainly a lot of time is spent.

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

APRIL 11, 2006

PAGE 5

Mary Jane then expressed concern about advertising for letters of interest pertaining to the Selectboard vacancy and now the Board has decided not to appoint someone, which constitutes changing the rules.  She stressed further there were interested parties who are qualified and they didn’t choose any of them.  She added she found it very difficult to accept going through a special election, adding that the discussion has been to bring the town back together and

yet the Selectboard couldn’t even get together to pick a candidate after saying it wished requests for letters of intent to serve.  A lengthy discussion then ensued with Board members as to why the motion to appoint was defeated.  Walter Page apologized to Joe Poquette as a Board member for the action of the Board.

Public Works Foreman:

Jeff Potvin advised he and Kevin Daignault had met with Randy Reed about funds for the roads and about the Better Back Roads grant.  He stressed keeping the Public Works budget separate from the Town budget and including all expenses for Public Works to get a full accounting of what the actual cost is for Public Works.  He advised they also talked about structure grants from the State of Vermont, which helps rebuild sections of road.  North Hero hasn’t applied for one in some time and should be looked into further.  The problem on South End Road by Paul Yandow’s was reviewed and a plan to fix that problem long term should be constructed.  He also indicated areas on Lakeview Drive by the fishing access and an area on Pelots Point Road also needs work.  Jeff also advised that Kevin is supposed to be monitoring the test pits behind the Town Hall, but he isn’t aware of when that was supposed to start or end.

Excess Weight Permits:

It was noted by Marie Kilbride that permits had been received for approval by Island Excavating Corp, Cardinal Logistics Management Corp, Chevalier Drilling Co, Inc, Donald E. Lavalley, William R. Sawyer, Camp Precast Concrete Products, Inc., Harrison Redi-Mix Corp, Harrison Concrete Const., Inc, Richmond Home Supply, Larry Gregoire, Merritt Vantine and Gregory Supply Company, Inc.

Larry Dupont made a motion to approve the permits and have Jeff Potvin sign all of them and Walter Page placed a second.  On a voice vote the permits were unanimously approved (4-0) and Jeff Potvin signed them all on behalf of the Board.

Liquor License Renewal – North Hero House:

Mariel Kilbride then called for a motion to recess the Selectboard Meeting and go into a meeting of the Liquor Control Board at 9:09 PM.  Larry Dupont so moved and Walter Page placed a second.  On a voice vote the Selectboard entered into a Liquor Control meeting.  Larry Dupont made a motion to approve the

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

APRIL 11, 2006

PAGE 6

Liquor License renewal application submitted by the North Hero House and Jeff Potvin seconded the motion.  The application was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0). 

Larry Dupont made a motion to adjourn the Liquor Control Board meeting at 9:11 PM and reconvene the Selectboard meeting.  Walter Page placed a second and the Selectboard meeting reconvened.

Water-Memo from Michael Burke dated March 17, 2006:

Larry Dupont advised the document is an ongoing dialogue on the concept of selling water to Alburgh.  He also indicated that hopefully there will be something for the Water Board/Selectboard to review in about a month.

Town Clerk/Treasurer:

Ruth Miller advised that items she wished to discuss had been addressed earlier on the agenda.

Communications with community:

Walter Page indicated he had asked for this agenda item.  He further indicated he felt the Selectboard should communicate with the community and a protocol should be set by the Board to keep the community informed.  He suggested that one or the other of the co-chairs should draft such a communication following each meeting.  He then placed a motion that a protocol should be adopted by the Board for communication with the public.  His intent is to make sure that what is communicated is what has transpired and was said.  He moved that Board members review the draft in the Town Clerk’s office by noon on Friday and a note indicating approval or denial made on the draft.  A “No” indication will stop the communication.  Larry Dupont seconded the motion and it was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).

Discussion of Selectboard policies – meeting protocol/agenda preparation:

Walter Page indicated he had also requested this be addressed by the Board.  He feels the Board has to make it clear what it intends to discuss at meetings and has an obligation to the Town to vote on those things which it has made clear will be discussed at a meeting.  He urged any items to be discussed under Old Business be listed so that any interested party is aware of what will be discussed and voted. He then moved that only items listed on the agenda be discussed and voted on and Larry Dupont placed a second for discussion. 

After further discussion, it was determined last minute administrative matters can be brought to the table and voted on.  The amended motion was then unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

APRIL 11, 2006

PAGE 7

Selectboard Responsibilities:

Ruth Miller advised she had listed the responsibilities as indicated by the Board members at the previous meeting with one exception.  Marie Kilbride had pointed out she wished to be included in the budget process.  Jeff Potvin then indicated

he could not be the representative to the VT Solid Waste District monthly meetings.  Walter Page then noted that three individuals had indicated interest in School/Act 68 and that certainly constitutes duplication of effort.  He asked to have this responsibility taken off his list.  Jeff Potvin asked to be included in the Public Works Budget process.

Discussion Planning Grant motion of March 6, 2006:

Tabled.

Correspondence:

Larry Dupont advised that Ruth Wallman had contacted him that the FLW Fishing Tournament folks are coming to North Hero on April 13^th to tour the area and see if they are interested in conducting a fishing derby here in 2007.  One of Ruth’s jobs is to try to find business for the Islands, so she is hosting a meeting with them at 12:15 PM on the 13^th at the Chamber office and Larry asked if he could attend on behalf of the Selectboard and report back at the next meeting. 

Marie Kilbride then asked if the remainder of items listed under Correspondence could be tabled and all agreed.

New Business:

It was determined that Chip Porter’s memo to the Selectboard as Chair of the Board of Adjustment concerning the alternate to that Board be tabled until the time of the next meeting.

Old Business:

Dog in Office:  Marie Kilbride and Walter Page were charged with the responsibility for doing an investigation.  Walter reported the statutes do not address this and insurance is not an issue.  A telephone call to Mike Chrastina requesting what he had determined, as he had had a call from Kathy concerning the event and what he reported back is a reiteration of what Kathy had said to him in the first paragraph.  The second paragraph of the letter indicated that somebody else had a complaint; namely, Jim Dubuque and apparently he was in the office sometime last year and the dog nibbled at him.  It was unclear to him whether the dog was playing or not.  Walt also had a talk with the lady who also had an experience with the dog and she indicated she had no problem with it.  In terms of what transpired, Walt indicated he had no way of knowing this.  He also informed that Ruth had emailed other Town Clerks requesting they let her know if

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

APRIL 11, 2006

PAGE 8

they had dogs in the office and she had 22 responses.  The problem is that this doesn’t come under the realm of the Selectboard.  It is the Town Clerk’s Office and she is a constitutionally elected officer and runs the Town Clerk’s Office. 

The Selectboard has to have concern if there is a threat to the public well being, etc., but the dog is now behind a gated area and no threat exists.

Marie Kilbride advised she contacted the Vermont League of Cities & Towns and spoke with the Director of the Municipal Assistance Center, who said there is no State statute that regulates animals in municipal offices.  She then contacted VOSHA, VT Labor & Industry who indicated there is no VOSHA regulation addressing animals in offices.  They recommended she be in contact with the Department of Health and they advised there is no regulation addressing animals in offices.  Claudine Williams of Marketplace Insurance was contacted, the Town’s insurer, and she indicated there is no insurance issue that addresses animals in Town offices.  She did make a strong recommendation, however, that the Town receive a certificate of insurance from the landlords, Ruth and Jack Miller. 

Claudine clarified that requesting the certificate of insurance has nothing to do with the dog issue, but they would recommend that to anybody who is renting.

Marie Kilbride indicated that at this point it seems that there, short of instituting a policy, is nothing the Selectboard needs to do.

Adjournment:

Walter Page made a motion to adjourn at 9:50 PM and Jeff Potvin placed a second.  The meeting adjourned.

Respectfully submitted,

MARCH 20, 2006 

ATTENDEES:

Larry Dupont                          Marie Kilbride                        Walter Page

Jeff Potvin                              Ruth Miller

GUESTS:

Frank Dattilio                         Jim Giroux                              Tracy Giroux

Mary Jo Graziano                  Sarah Groff                            Ed Groff                     

Mary Jane Healy                   Paula Knight                          Eileen Mitchell

Joe Poquette                         Karl Raacke                           Doug Robertson

Jo-Ann Tier                            Ron Tier

Call Meeting to Order:

In the absence of a Co-Chair, Larry Dupont called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM.

Walter Page made a motion to have Larry Dupont serve as Chair until the Election of Officers is addressed on the agenda.  Marie Kilbride seconded the motion and on a voice vote the motion was unanimously approved (4-0).

Larry Dupont read a letter dated March 18, 2006, into the record from Robert Greenough advising the Selectboard of his resignation effective immediately due to health reasons.

Walter Page then nominated Larry Dupont and Marie Kilbride to be Co-Chairs of the Board.  Jeff Potvin seconded the motion which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).

At this point, Town Clerk Ruth Miller, interrupted the meeting to advise Jeff Potvin had not been sworn in since the election and before any business could be transacted, this had to occur.  Jeff was then sworn in.

Walter Page then nominated Larry Dupont and Marie Kilbride to be Co-Chairs of the Board.  Jeff Potvin seconded the motion which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).

Minutes of March 6, 2006:

Larry Dupont questioned the status of the error on the Grand List involving John Quintin and Ruth Miller explained how the problem arose.  She then advised it is her belief the error goes back to the Listers as this is a computer error on their

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

MARCH 20, 2006

PAGE 2

part.  Anne Dorwaldt has also advised she feels this is not something that should be addressed by the Board of Abatement.

Marie Kilbride reminded that Bob Greenough had been addressing parking for Butler Island residents.  It was determined that Chuck Weisner should be invited to a future meeting in follow-up.

Jeff Potvin reminded he had been asked to check with Kevin Daignault regarding truck repairs and how the repairs would be handled financially by the town.  He informed he has been working with Kevin on that issue, but nothing solid has been worked out. It is his belief the repairs will have to wait until after the beginning of the next fiscal year.

Jeff Potvin made a motion to approve the minutes of March 6, 2006 and Marie Kilbride seconded the motion which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).

Guests:

Karl Raacke advised he had concerns about a dog being in the Town Office.  Walter Page suggested the issue be explored and Marie Kilbride volunteered to participate in exploring the concern.

Mary Jane Healy advised she spends a great deal of time in the Town Clerk’s Office and was never aware of any problem and does not recall hearing the dog bark until today.  That was because Karl, Jr. came into the office today.  She added people routinely speak to the dog before they speak to the Town Clerk about their business.  She further advised she was in the office for two hours this afternoon and many people came in after her arrival and she never heard the dog bark until Karl, Jr. arrived in the office.

Walter Page advised the situation has been addressed in the office with a child gate being installed, which keeps the dog away from the public.

Readoption of all ordinances and policies of the Board:

Marie Kilbride moved that the Selectboard readopt the ordinances and policies currently in effect and Jeff Potvin seconded the motion.  Marie then pointed out she had reviewed the ordinances and wasn’t able to discover all of the policies.  It has been suggested that minutes from previous meetings be reviewed to ascertain if up-to-date policies have been passed on through time.

There being no further discussion, the motion was approved on a voice vote (4-0).

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

MARCH 20, 2006

PAGE 3

Reappointment of Town Officials:

Jeff Potvin made a motion to reappoint Warren (Butch) Robare as Forest Fire Warden.  Walter Page seconded the motion, which was unanimously approved (4-0).

Jeff Potvin made a motion to appoint Larry Dupont, Jeff Potvin and Walter Page as fence viewers.  Larry Dupont placed a second and the motion was unanimously approved (4-0).

Jeff Potvin made a motion to appoint Michael Chrastina as poundkeeper.  Larry Dupont placed a second and the motion was unanimously approved (4-0).

Jeff Potvin made a motion to appoint Karl Raacke as inspector of lumber, shingles and wood and Marie Kilbride seconded the motion which was unanimously approved (4-0).

Jeff Potvin made a motion to appoint James Kilbride was the weigher of coal and Walter Page seconded the motion which was unanimously approved (4-0).

Jeff Potvin made a motion to appoint Bob Greenough as tree warden and Marie Kilbride seconded the motion which was unanimously approved (4-0).

Jeff Potvin made a motion to reappoint Larry Dupont and appoint Terry Schaefer as Water Board Commissioners for a period of three years.  Walter Page placed a second and the motion was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).

Jeff Potvin made a motion to reappoint Eileen Mitchell and Ken Bassett to the Board of Adjustment for four year terms.  Marie Kilbride seconded the motion which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).

Jeff Potvin made a motion to reappoint Ross Hamilton as Emergency Management Coordinator and Walter Page placed a second.  The motion was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).

Marie Kilbride made a motion to appoint Ruth Miller as Credit Supervisor for the Water Department and Jeff Potvin placed a second.  The appointment was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).

Jeff Potvin made a motion to appoint Walter Page as the Water Hearing Officer and Marie Kilbride seconded the motion which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

MARCH 20, 2006

PAGE 4

Larry Dupont advised he had spoken with the Chair of the Parks and Recreational Committee and two write-ins at the March 7^th election received less then the 30 votes or 1% of the voters, whichever is less.  Those two folks will be attending the April 10^th meeting and will decide if they would like that position or not.  At that point a recommendation will be forwarded by the Chair to the Selectboard.  If they decide not to accept the positions, the positions will be advertised and recommendations made to the Selectboard.

Bills/Budget:

The bills and attached warrant were circulated for signatures.

Public Works Foreman:

Larry Dupont advised Kevin Daignault is not in attendance as he has had a death in his family. 

Water:

Joe Poquette advised that eventually a joint meeting will be necessary with the Selectboard and Water Board to address the South Alburgh project.  He further advised the agreement is being fine tuned by lawyers.

Approval of Excess Weight Permits:

Jeff Potvin made a motion to approve the following permits:  Big Dog Trucking, Carroll Concrete, Ormond Bushey & Sons, Inc., P&P Septic Service, Inc., Ronald Bevins Excavating, S.D. Ireland, S.T. Griswold & Company, Inc.  Marie Kilbride seconded the motion, which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).

Doug Robertson asked the Selectboard to consider banning garbage trucks over 30,000 pounds on private roads.  Jeff Potvin was asked to investigate this recommendation and report back to the full Board.

Joe Poquette sought input from the Board on the posted roads situation and suggested Kevin Daignault be allowed to use his discretion to manage the roads.

Jeff Potvin will follow-up on this suggestion.

Approval of Household/CEG Hazardous Waste collection event:

Larry Dupont advised that the Northwest Vermont Solid Waste District and Agency of Natural Resources is seeking approval to hold a Household/CEG Hazardous Waste collection event in the town at the transfer station on August 26, 2006.  Marie Kilbride made a motion to approve and Walter Page seconded the motion which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0). 

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

MARCH 20, 2006

PAGE 5

Approval Second Class Liquor License Applications:

Jeff Potvin made a motion to recess the Selectboard meeting and enter into a meeting of the Liquor Control Board at 7:03 PM.  Marie Kilbride placed a second and the Selectboard meeting was recessed.  Jeff Potvin made a motion to approve the Second Class Liquor License Applications of Pelots Point Marine Services, LLC; Hero’s Welcome, Inc; and Robare’s Harbor Store and Marie Kilbride seconded the motion which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0). 

Jeff Potvin made a motion to adjourn the Liquor Control Board meeting and reconvene the Selectboard meeting at 7:04 PM.  Marie Kilbride seconded the motion which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).

Correspondence:

Buildings & General Services Surplus Property program forms to be completed and returned to establish eligibility for the Federal surplus property program were received.  Larry Dupont indicated there is no cost to the Town to participate in the program and felt the forms should be signed and all were in agreement to have Larry sign on behalf of the Selectboard.

Ruth Miller, Town Clerk, advised the Official Notice concerning the town owned building currently located at the North Hero landfill was posted in three public places in Town and was submitted to The Islander for publication for four consecutive weeks.  David Campbell placed a bid of $151.00.  Per State statute, after 30 days, David will be notified of his winning bid and be given 30 days to remove the building from the landfill.

A policy change was received from Marketplace Insurance advising the John Deere Back Hoe is now covered under the Commercial Automobile policy not the Commercial Liability policy. 

Ruth Miller presented the Board with a copy of an email to Kathy DeWolfe at the Secretary of State’s office confirming the approval of the use of a vote tabulation machine by the voters on March 7^th.  Kathy confirmed the machine will most likely be delivered in June and training sessions for its use will be scheduled.  Larry Dupont and Marie Kilbride expressed an interest in attending the training sessions.

Correspondence from Michael Chrastina were acknowledged as received.  Mike is seeking a policy on collecting amounts due smaller than $5.00 and will hold off on billing those accounts until guidance is received from the Board.

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

MARCH 20, 2006

PAGE 6

Joe Poquette questioned if the article warned for March 7^th pertaining to delinquent taxes passed or not and was advised by Larry Dupont the article passed overwhelmingly, but reminded it was treated as informational only as it was determined to be an invalid article.  Joe then questioned what the Town plans to do with the information and Walter Page made a motion to place another article on the ballot at the next special meeting.  Marie Kilbride seconded the motion provided the correct verbage is used.  There being no further discussion, the motion was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).

It was noted the March 14, 2006 letter to Ruth Miller from Michael Chrastina was copied to the Board and Ruth advised the issues have been addressed.

Larry Dupont pointed out the 2006 Lake Champlain Action Plan that was distributed to the Selectboard members.  It was distributed by the Vermont Citizens Advisory Committee concerning lake clean up and the priority initiatives were briefly reviewed.

New Business:

Walter Page made a motion to post the obligatory notice of vacancy on the Selectboard on March 21, 2006, for 10 days in order that people can respond in a timely fashion expressing interest to serve.  Jeff Potvin seconded the motion.

Larry Dupont advised that he and Ruth had drafted an official notice concerning the vacancy and proceeded to read the notice into the record (see attached).  It was noted the next meeting is routinely scheduled for April 3^rd.  There being no further discussion, the motion was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).

Walter Page advised he had a couple of items to put forth, one being whether or not the Board is prepared to adopt some policies as he had become aware over the last nine months at least one individual on the Board purporting to represent the Board and solicit information from agencies in the State and indicated this is just short of fraud.  He further indicated that the Board has to be extremely careful in soliciting assistance from others on the part of the Board and anyone on the Board has an obligation to report to the other members of the Board any such endeavor.  He indicated he has spoken with members of agencies involved and they have expressed the fact they were terribly distraught when learning that the person involved was not acting on behalf of the Board, nor any member of the Board. 

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

MARCH 20, 2006

PAGE 7

His other concern was evidence presented to the Board over the last few months that was purely hearsay evidence.  It is his judgment that if the Board is soliciting information particularly of a legal or technical nature then an explicit written trail should be submitted to the Board in follow-up.  The question has to be explicit, up front and documented and the answer has to be explicit, up front and from the source of the sought information. 

Marie Kilbride advised she and Larry Dupont had preliminary conversations with the Vermont Preservation Trust concerning the issue of matching funds. 

She also mentioned reading in the Legislative Weekly that there is a deadline approaching concerning turning over old roads to local property owners.  Doug Robertson advised none exist in North Hero.  Joe Poquette advised there is cow watering spots that are Town right-of-way or Town property located in various areas in Town.  A discussion ensued regarding the location of these spots.  Joe also felt it would be in the best interest of the Town to clean up the Town property on Station Road near the O’Neil property.

Walter Page commented it is his judgment the Town has not spoken as to what it wishes to do with the Town Hall at this point.  He further stated he felt one of the reasons he was elected was because the Town is concerned with that.  If the Board wishes to explore all options, i.e. how to tear it down, how to give it away, etc., he will not be party to the Board instituting any active participation or agreement concerning the Town Hall until or unless the Town has spoken as to what it wants to do.  He further indicated he intends to bring to the Board an article for warning a special town meeting for the Town to have an opportunity to make a decision on what it wants to do with the hall.

It was noted that Assignment of Responsibilities was not addressed as warned and Walt Page expressed an interest in serving on budget, Act 68 (taxes) and Parks & Recreation Committee.  Jeff indicated an agreement to oversee roads.

Jeff was then provided with the original agreement document the Town will seek Paul Yandow’s signature pertaining to South End Road. Marie indicated she would like to continue as liaison with the Fire Department, Rescue and Sherriff Department, as well as Act 68 liaison with the School Board.  Jeff Potvin agreed to be the representative to the VT Solid Waste District, which involves a meeting once a month.  Larry Dupont expressed an interest in serving on the New Town Office Committee, as well as participation in the Lake cleanup at the State level.  After further discussion, it was determined that each Board member would write up a list of interests and submit it to the Town Clerk for compilation and submission to the Board for approval.

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

MARCH 20, 2006

PAGE 8

Mary Jane Healy questioned the status of the updated Zoning Bylaws as she has been out of Town and wondered if the Board had received the final copy for approval.  She was advised by Jack Miller the Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment are fine tuning the bylaws and then they will be turned over to the Selectboard for their input and approval.

Marie Kilbride informed she had been questioned about the election results and suggested an article be put in The Islander in the North Hero column which actually indicates which way each of the articles went.  Ruth Miller advised the results are posted on the web page, as well as the two stores in town and at the Town office.  The results were submitted to George Fowler with a request for him to publish it under North Hero News and he chose to print only the Selectboard election results.  Walter Page suggested approaching the two stores in town to see if they would agree to a locked, plexiglass case for posting legal notices for the town at town expense.  All were in agreement that Walt should approach the

store owners with the idea and report back to the Board.

The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Selectboard is Monday, April 3, 2006.  It was noted that both Marie and Jeff will be away on that day and after considerable discussion, it was determined that a meeting could be scheduled for April 11^th if needed, as the next regularly scheduled meeting would be April 17^th. 

Authorizing payment of bills was discussed.  It was determined that one or two people should be authorized to sign and facilitate the payment of bills.  Walter Page made a motion to approve the Co-Chairs (one or both of them) to sign for payment of bills.  Jeff Potvin placed a second and on a voice vote the motion was unanimously approved (4-0).

Jeff Potvin made a motion to designate the time, place and date of future Selectboard meetings as 7 PM at the North Hero Elementary School on the first and third Monday of each month.  Walter Page placed a second and on a voice vote the motion was unanimously approved (4-0).

Adjournment:

Walter Page made a motion to adjourn and Jeff Potvin seconded the motion which was unanimously approved and the meeting adjourned at 7:55 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

DRAFT

MINUTES OF MEETING

NORTH HERO SELECTBOARD

MARCH 6, 2006

ATTENDEES:

Larry Dupont                            Bob Greenough                        Marie Kilbride

Jeff Potvin                                Doug Robertson                       Kevin Daignault

Ruth Miller

GUESTS:

See attached listing

Call Meeting to Order:

Co-Chair, Doug Robertson, called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM.

Minutes of February 20, 2006:

Larry Dupont made a motion to approve the minutes of February 20, 2006 and Bob Greenough placed a second. 

Bob Greenough questioned if the grant had been submitted to Better Back Roads concerning South End Road and Kevin Daignault advised he has the paperwork, but it has not yet been submitted. 

Under Correspondence, concerning the letter from Debra Westover, Bob Greenough advised he had been in touch with Debra and has also spoken with Chuck Weisner of Forest & Parks, inquiring into the possibility of residents of Butler Island utilizing Knight’s State Park for parking.  Chuck advised he will investigate this possibility and get back to us.  He also informed that the Fish & Game people are close to completing the fishing access on Route 2 just before the Draw Bridge, which would be ideal for residents to launch their boats and then park across at Knight’s State Park for a nominal weekly fee.  Debra, however, was seeking a mooring space on town-owned property, but was advised that no such property exists in the village.

There being no further discussion, the minutes were unanimously approved on a voice vote (5-0).

Bills/Budget:

The bills and attached warrant were circulated for signatures.

Public Works Foreman:

Kevin Daignault advised that the International truck needs a substantial amount of work estimated to cost approximately $6,642.15, which does not include labor.  The 1-ton truck needs approximately $1,008.12 worth of repairs for a total of $7650.27, plus labor as Public Works is not equipped to do the repairs.  Jeff Potvin was asked to work with Kevin to determine how this would be handled financially by the town.

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

MARCH 6, 2006

PAGE 2

Kevin also advised they are in the process of cutting brush and opening up the ditch on West Shore Road.  The stumps are being dug out with the backhoe to try to save money and Corrections has been helping out with brush cutting. 

Water:

Doug Robertson advised that a Bond Anticipation Note renewal needs approval and signatures.  The Note was due March 2^nd and interest is payable from the Water Department, who does not meet again until March 27^th.  Doug then asked for a motion to renew the Bond Anticipation Note with the Chittenden.  Larry Dupont so moved and Bob Greenough placed a second.  On a voice vote the motion was unanimously approved (5-0) and the note was signed by all Board members. 

Doug then advised the Alburgh Water project has not progressed since the last meeting as the attorney and engineers are still reviewing the contract.

Excess Weight Permits:

An Excess Weight Permit request has been received from Michael D. and Mary A. Santor, John G. French & Sons Trucking, Inc., Rice Lumber Co., Inc.  A motion to approve the permits with restrictions noted was made by Jeff Potvin and Larry Dupont seconded the motion.  On a voice vote the permits were approved (5-0).

Bid for Town owned building at landfill:

Doug Robertson advised that one bid was submitted from David Campbell for the building.  He noted that according to the Secretary of State when a town wishes to sell town property it has to post a notice of the terms of the proposed sale in three public places and publish the notice at least 30 days prior to the proposed sale.  Doug then asked  that this be tabled for 30 days and a notice be written notifying residents as per State statute. 

Error on Grand List – John Quintin:

Doug Robertson noted that an error had been discovered on the Grand List in that John Quintin received two property tax bills, when in fact the properties have been joined and he should have received only one bill.  It was the Board’s opinion that because it is a computer error, it should be handled by the Board of Abatement.

Approval of VT Rapid Response Plan:

Doug Robertson reminded that Brian Welsh presented the VT Rapid Response Plan at the last meeting and called for a motion to have the VT Rapid Response Plan signed.   Larry made a motion to have Doug Robertson sign the document on behalf of the Selectboard.  Bob Greenough placed a second and on a voice vote this was unanimously approved (5-0).

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

MARCH 6, 2006

PAGE 3

Correspondence:

An estimate of $4,626.20 was received from the Agency of Transportation for the salt and sand used by the Town of North Hero for the period of December 26, 2005 through January 27, 2006.  A bill will be forthcoming.

Copies of correspondence from Bart Wilcox were noted as received.

A policy change endorsement was received which excludes the backhoe under the Commercial Property coverage.

An Estimated FY 2007 Education Tax Rates and Housesite Education Tax Amounts for North Hero District was received.

A notification has been received from J. Paul Giuliani notifying us of needed documentation in preparation for the 2006 Vermont Municipal Bond Bank sale.  Larry Dupont made a motion to direct the Clerk to fill out and submit the paperwork to get North Hero on the list for a bond for the approved office building to be placed behind the existing Community Hall.  Bob Greenough placed a second and on a voice vote the motion was unanimously approved (5-0).

New Business:

None at this time.

Old Business:

Marie Kilbride reminded that at the prior meeting she had been approved by the Selectboard to seek legal counsel regarding the proposal that the North Hero Historical Society submitted.  She then submitted and reviewed a summary she wrote of her conversation with Steve Stitzel of Stitzel, Page & Fletcher, which occurred on March 3, 2006 (see attached).  A conversation then ensued as to what steps should occur at the current time and it was determined that the studies previously conducted should be updated as there is a matching grant available from Historical Preservation Trust for any expenses incurred  for bringing those studies up-to-date.  Doug Robertson then asked for a motion to have the Town pay 50% of the planning grant with a limit of $5000.  Bob Greenough so moved and Marie Kilbride placed a second.  On a voice vote the motion was unanimously approved (5-0).

Larry Dupont advised he had sought a legal opinion pertaining to Article 5.  A letter was sent to Attorney Paul Giuliani, Bond Counsel and Larry read the letter dated March 6, 2006 into the record (copy attached).  A response was received by FAX from Paul and Marie Kilbride read the response into the record (copy attached).  Larry Dupont made a motion to accept the advice of legal counsel as indicated in his letter dated March 6, 2006 in regards to Article 5.  Marie Kilbride seconded the motion which was

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

MARCH 6, 2006

PAGE 4

unanimously approved on a voice vote (5-0).  It was further determined that the count pertaining to that article would be for informational purposes only.

Executive Session:

Not necessary.

Adjournment:

There being no further business to be discussed, Larry Dupont made a motion to adjourn at 7:15 PM.  Bob Greenough seconded the motion and the meeting adjourned.

Respectfully submitted, 

FEBRUARY 20, 2006

ATTENDEES:

Bob Greenough                        Marie Kilbride                          Jeff Potvin

Doug Robertson                       Kevin Daignault                        Ruth Miller

 

INVITED GUESTS:

John Lambert

GUESTS:

Liane Chrastina             Courtney Fisher                        James Giroux               

Tracy Giroux                            Paula Knight                             Jack Miller                  

Karl Raacke                             Brian Welsh

Call Meeting to Order:

Co-Chair, Bob Greenough, called the meeting to order at 6 PM.

Guests:

Brian Welsh was recognized and presented the Vermont Rapid Response Plan for the Town of North Hero.  He briefly reviewed the Plan and indicated the Plan needs to be adopted as soon as possible by the Selectboard and a copy forwarded to Vermont Emergency Management.  He reminded this is a work in progress and will be updated as is necessary. 

John Lambert, Chair of the Policy/Project Review Committee of the Northwest Regional Planning Commission was invited to attend in follow-up to a letter received by the Selectboard dated January 30, 2006 from the Town of St. Albans, Office of the Selectboard which pertains to having a Wal*Mart store in St. Albans.  John distributed copies of the Committee meeting held on January 11, 2006 and the recommendation of his Committee to the Northwest Regional Planning Commission. After discussion, It was determined the Policy/Project Review Committee met on January 11^th and addressed the concerns of the St. Albans Selectboard so no response is needed at this time.

 Tracy Giroux and Eileen Mitchell presented a written response dated February 15, 2006, to Larry Dupont’s questions raised in a telephone call on February 12^th.  The questions raised pertain to the Historical Society’s proposal and what it will cost to restore the Community Hall.  Marie Kilbride indicated she had read the proposal submitted at the prior meeting and the issue pertaining to indemnification of the Town for the Historical Society and vice versa needs to be determined if it is at all possible.  Marie indicated a willingness to research that issue and asked the Board’s permission to seek legal advice.  Marie then made a motion that she be approved to seek legal advice around the issue of indemnification.   Jeff Potvin placed a second.  Doug Robertson indicated he would need to know who the legal person is who would be giving an opinion

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

FEBRUARY 20, 2006

PAGE 2

 prior to approving this.  Marie then suggested she contact the Vermont League of Cities & Towns to see if there is an environmental legal firm who could give the Board a written legal opinion.  Doug Robertson felt as long as the attorney consulted has training and has demonstrated authority in such issues, he would approve this being pursued.  Under the conditions outlined by Doug, the Board unanimously approved the motion (4-0).  

Minutes of February 6, 2006:

Doug Robertson made a motion to accept the minutes of February 6, 2006 and Jeff Potvin seconded the motion.  There being no discussion, the motion was unanimously approved (4-0).

Bills:

The warrant and attached invoices were circulated for approval.

Public Works Foreman:

Kevin Daignault advised South End Road has a problem again with erosion and he had spoken with both Doug Robertson and Bob Greenough concerning meeting with Jim Smith who worked for AOT.  Subsequently, a document has been drawn up for hours and costs for the job and an application will be submitted for a Better Back Roads grant. 

Kevin then indicated the 1-ton truck is in for repairs at Fitzpatrick’s as the rear end has gone in the truck.  They have quoted $2800 for parts and $600 for labor for repairing the truck, which is expected to be back in use by February 21^st or 22^nd. 

Water:

Nothing reported at this time.

Alburg Water Contract:

Doug Robertson indicated the contract is not ready for further consideration at this time.

First Class Liquor Licenses:  North Hero Marina/Shore Acres Resort

Bob Greenough called for a motion to recess the Selectboard Meeting and enter into a Liquor Control Board meeting.  Marie Kilbride so moved and Jeff Potvin placed a second.  The Board entered into a Liquor Control Board meeting at 6:35 PM.

Jeff Potvin made a motion to approve the liquor licenses as submitted and Marie Kilbride seconded the motion.  The liquor licenses were unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0). 

The Liquor Control Board adjourned at 6:37 PM on a motion by Jeff Potvin and a second by Doug Robertson.  The Selectboard meeting reconvened.

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

FEBRUARY 20, 2006

PAGE 3

Correspondence:

Bob Greenough indicated he had a letter from Debra Westover, a North Hero resident, who has a camp on Butler Island.  She is requesting that consideration be given to providing her with a mooring for her boat so she can come and go from the island. 

Along those same lines, Jack Miller expressed concern for parking capacity for Butler Island residents.  Doug Robertson suggested the Town be in touch with Knight’s State Park for future parking capacity for Butler Island residents.   After further discussion, it was determined Larry Dupont should be asked to address the concern expressed by Debra.

A memo dated February 1, 2006, has also been received concerning the final reconciliation of the April 1, 2006 Grand List.  The official Town of North Hero education property values are as follows:  Homestead Education Property Value is $58,352,500; the non-residential education property value is $89,878,900 with a total education property value of $148,231,400.  These values will be used by the VT Department of Education to calculate final tax amounts and school aid payments to the Education Fund for FY 2006.

A letter addressed to the Board of Listers from the State of Vermont Department of Taxes concerning recalculation of North Hero’s CLA has been received dated February 13, 2006.  This letter confirms a request for re-calculation of the CLA using the reappraised 2006 grand list and the equalized education property tax grand list certified January 1, 2006.

Larry Dupont shared an article recently published in USA Today concerning a class action lawsuit brought against the Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa because they failed to inform guests about mold growth in the building.

Bob Greenough advised that the Town Service Officer for the Town of North Hero needs to be appointed for the period April 15, 2006 through April 14, 2007.  Warren Robare has been the Officer in the past and has agreed to another term.  Doug Robertson made a motion to reappoint Warren Robare as Town Service Officer for 2006 and Marie Kilbride seconded the motion which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).  The appointment form was signed by all Selectboard members in attendance.

A letter has also been received from Grand Isle County Assistant Judges Sherri Potvin and Andrew de Treville, advising North Hero’s county tax for the fiscal year commencing July 1, 2006 is $66,118.

New Business:

None to be discussed at this time.

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

FEBRUARY 20, 2006

PAGE 4

Old Business:

Marie Kilbride indicated she attended the School Board Informational Meeting held on February 15, 2006, which was well attended by the general public.  There were specific questions asked concerning the $36,000 the Selectboard is in support of, which will be an  article to be voted upon on March 7^th.

Marie then expressed concern about the article placed on the warning concerning the delinquent taxes being collected by the Town Treasurer, in that the Selectboard did not specifically approve the article before it’s being placed on the ballot.  Doug Robertson advised that the Town Clerk was advised by three Board members to place the article on the warning and let the voters of the Town of North Hero decide if they want to save that money. 

Jeff Potvin then expressed that he felt further discussion concerning the Town Hall should take place and Marie Kilbride expressed concern regarding the liability issues involved and the formation of a community restoration committee in conjunction with the Historical Society.  Bob Greenough then asked about the next step and was informed by Doug Robertson that the Town needs to wait until the test pits are monitored in June 2006.

Adjournment:

There being no further business, Doug Robertson made a motion to adjourn and Jeff Potvin seconded the motion.  The motion was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0) and the meeting adjourned at 7:12 PM.

Respectfully submitted, 

JANUARY 30, 2006 

ATTENDEES:

Larry Dupont                            Bob Greenough                        Marie Kilbride

Jeff Potvin (arrived 6:25 PM) Doug Robertson              Ruth Miller 

Call Meeting to Order:

Co-Chair, Bob Greenough, called the meeting to order at 6:05 PM. 

Doug Robertson made a motion to amend the agenda, postponing agenda items #2, #4, #7 and #8 to the February 6^th meeting.  Larry Dupont seconded the motion, which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0). 

Property Tax Payment Schedule:

Larry Dupont advised that Ruth Miller reviewed the payment schedule in conjunction with the property tax payment schedule, as well as the water payment schedule and made a recommendation to the Selectboard.  Larry then made a motion to accept the guidance in the memo from the Town Clerk dated January 18, 2006, recommending the adjusted due dates for both water and property tax payments be placed on the ballot for the March meeting.  Marie Kilbride seconded the motion which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).   

Sign Warning for March Meeting:

Doug Robertson made a motion to sign two warnings with final acceptance contingent on results of the discussion to be held with the North Hero School Board.  Larry Dupont seconded the motion which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (4-0).   

Alburgh Water Contract:

Larry Dupont gave an update pertaining to the Alburgh Water Contract indicating the contract isn’t ready to be reviewed in detail at the current time. 

Executive Session:

Larry made a motion to recess the Selectboard meeting at 6:35 PM to enter into Executive Session for contractual negotiations and Doug Robertson seconded the motion. 

Larry Dupont made a motion to come out of Executive Session and reconvene the Selectboard meeting at 7:15 PM.  Doug Robertson seconded the motion.

Doug Robertson made a motion to include an article in the warning for the March meeting for $36,000 to be paid to the North Hero School for services provided to the  

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

JANUARY 30, 2006

PAGE 2 

Town of North Hero for one year only.  Larry Dupont seconded the motion which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (5-0). 

2006-2007 Budget:

The 2006-2007 was reviewed in detail and upon completion, Larry Dupont made a motion to accept the budget as amended and Doug Robertson seconded the motion which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (5-0).

 Adjournment:

Doug Robertson made a motion to adjourn and Larry Dupont seconded the motion.  The meeting adjourned at 8:05 PM.

Respectfully submitted, 

JANUARY 16, 2006 

ATTENDEES:

Larry Dupont                            Bob Greenough                        Marie Kilbride

Jeff Potvin                                Doug Robertson                       Kevin Daignault

Ruth Miller

GUESTS:

Paul Cheeseman                       Skip Dorwaldt                          Courtney Fisher           

Tracy Giroux                            Jim Kilbride                              Sue Lawrence                         

Jack Miller                               George Nelson             Bill Orcutt                                

Geri Seigle

Call Meeting to Order:

Co-Chair, Bob Greenough, called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM.

Guests:

Paul Cheeseman, Chair of the North Hero School Board, was recognized and indicated he hoped the two Boards could work together to save the taxpayers a few dollars.  He reminded that under Act 60 there was the “sharing pool” or “shark pool” and the Education Foundation was created to save the Town dollars.  With Act 68, the “sharing pool” was eliminated, but a penalty does exist if the per pupil cost is exceeded.  He reminded that under Act 60 the Town paid rent to the School and once again the School Board is in a position to ask the Selectboard if this can be considered as an option. 

George Nelson was introduced and circulated a document outlining a request for the Selectboard to consider including $55,000 in the Town budget for municipal use of the school.  He pointed out that receiving $55,000 from the Town would cause the cost per pupil to decline because this is a revenue.  He outlined what the issue is and what it would mean to both the school and Town to not approve the amount, as well as what it would mean to approve it.  George urged the Town to file Form 411 on or by April 1^st to get a temporary CLA approved.  Geri Seigle then outlined the procedure for completing reappraisal by April 1^st, the appeal process and the filing of a final grand list.  The State then looks at the grand list and compares three years of actual sales to the new values.  At that point they confirm or deny the new grand list and figure a new CLA.  Geri indicated she has no idea as to the State’s timeframe for completing this process.

A discussion was then held to determine the dates of public informational meetings before the vote on March 7, 2006.  The meetings were scheduled to occur on February 6^th, 2006 and February 20^th, 2006 (regularly scheduled Selectboard meeting dates).  It was determined to have the School informational meetings and the Town informational meetings combined.  The third meeting is scheduled for Saturday, March 4^th, 2006 at 3

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

JANUARY 16, 2006

PAGE 2

PM.  It was also determined that the Selectboard portion of the Town meeting on March 6^th will be scheduled first on the warning with the School meeting following.

Reappraisal Update – Listers

Geri Seigle indicated that Purvis Associates will meet the April 1^st deadline and then went on to outline the process and anticipated timeframe.

Minutes of January 3, 2006:

Doug Robertson made a motion to approve the minutes of January 3, 2006 and Jeff Potvin placed a second.  There being no discussion, the minutes were unanimously approved as written (5-0).

Bills/Budget:

The warrant and attached bills were circulated for approval.

Doug Robertson advised that the proposed budget circulated with the packet for the meeting is the first draft of the 2006-2007 budget, stressing this will be the last year in the current format.  All departments submitted budget figures, which are included exactly as requested.  He commended the job done by the various departments in compiling their projected budgets and went on to explain how the budget was constructed and what articles will be voted on separately.  He reminded Board members this is a first draft and they should review it carefully and consider it as a Board again on January 30^th at 6:30 PM, at which time a special meeting of the Board will be held to address both the budget and the water contract.   Board members were reminded that no changes in the budget can be made after February 1^st. 

Public Works Foreman:

Kevin Daignault advised that a contract has been received from the Community Restitution Work Programs with a fee for work service listed at $12.50 per offender per day.  After discussion it was felt North Hero only benefits from utilizing this work program.   Larry Dupont made a motion to sign the agreement with the Community Restitution Work Programs and Marie Kilbride seconded the motion, which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (5-0).   Bob Greenough signed the agreement on behalf of the Selectboard.

Kevin also advised the garage door at the Town Garage is being replaced.  Multiple problems have occurred with the door due to it being defective, as well as it being found open at various times day and night due to the remote being defective.  Selectboard members were contacted about the problems and Kevin was advised to seek two quotes for door replacement.  Both quotes came in at about the same figure of $2100.00.  The door has been ordered and should be installed in about four weeks.

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

JANUARY 16, 2006

PAGE 3

It was also noted that the chain for the little sander completely broke apart while Robin was using it.  Again, Selectboard members were contacted and authorization was given to order a chain.  This has been replaced and is now working fine.  The old chain will provide parts should problems arise in the future.

Kevin also informed that he can purchase used oil through the Department of Corrections for $.25 per gallon delivered. 

Bob Greenough questioned if the furnace has been repaired and was advised the furnace at the Town Garage is not firing and is scheduled to be repaired on January 17^th. 

Robin Rousseau has indicated he would like to take the green building currently located at the landfill which was scheduled to be removed by Jack Miller, who just hasn’t had the time to remove it.  The Board agreed that Robin can have the building, but should have it removed in 30 days or the building will be destroyed and placed in the dumpster.

Bob Niles recently reviewed the computer program that is installed in the Public Works computer and advised it is a way of tracking all expenses incurred by Public Works.

Water:

Larry Dupont advised the Informational  Meeting was held on Saturday, January 14^th pertaining to the Alburgh Water Project.  He felt the article appearing in The Islander answered many questions that might have been asked and once those answers were received, there was no need to attend the meeting.

Larry also advised that the contract is back from Attorney Thomas Melloni, but the contract has not yet been sent to Attorney Paul Giuliani.  Larry asked for authorization to have Attorney Melloni go ahead and send it to Paul and authorization was given for this. He noted that hopefully, Tom will have something back for the meeting on the 30^th. 

Penalty Monies – North Hero School Board representatives:

See Guests.

Reappraisal Update – Listers:

See Guests.

Alburg Water Contract Review:

See Water.

Town Clerk/Treasurer:

Ruth Miller advised she is spending a great deal of time working on the 2006-2007 town budget, as well as compiling the warning for Town Meeting, organizing the ballots and

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

JANUARY 16, 2006

PAGE 4

updating the voter checklist.  A review of the school audit is scheduled to occur on January 20^th, 2006 with George Nelson and a representative from Sullivan & Powers.

Correspondence:

Bob Greenough advised he has received two Thank You cards, one from Ruth Miller and one from Jo-Ann Tier for the Christmas hams received.

A memo was received from the VLCT requesting an article be placed on the ballot instructing our Governor, State Representatives and Senators to “oppose any use of State Education Funds for purposes that are outside the law’s original intent to make payments to school districts and supervisory unions for the support of education; the shifting of existing State General Fund expense obligations to the Education Fund; and the reduction of any existing State General Fund revenue support to the Education Fund.”  Doug Robertson made a motion to include the article as stated by VLCT on the ballot for the March 7^th meeting and Marie Kilbride seconded the motion which was unanimously approved on a voice vote (5-0).

The Market Place Insurance Center forwarded a statement indicating a credit of $2,921 was applied after completion of the worker’s compensation audit for the period of 11/15/04 through 11/15/05.

New Business:

Ruth Miller submitted a memo concerning changing the property tax payment schedule from three to four payments.  The dates suggested for property tax payments and water payments were reviewed.  It was decided to have Ruth research when payments to the State Treasurer are due, as well as when the school payments are due, to determine the feasibility of adjusting the property tax payment due dates. 

Old Business:

Doug Robertson advised that Krebs & Lansing have met with the waste water people and have requested that test holes be dug in the parking lot behind the existing Town Hall.  The holes will be opened on 1/17/06 and Mike Burke will be up on 1/18/06 to take a look.  They are also talking about digging test holes in the spring in the existing drainage field to see what the saturation rate is in the wettest time of the year.

Larry Dupont then questioned if the Historical Society is planning to submit a written proposal for the restoration of the Town Hall and was advised that they plan to do a presentation at the February 6th meeting of the Selectboard.  It was determined that the meeting that date should begin at 6 PM instead of 6:30 PM as a budget informational meeting is scheduled to occur following the regular meeting of the Selectboard. 

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING

JANUARY 16, 2006

PAGE 5

The presentation by George Nelson this date was then discussed further and it was determined that the School Board will be invited back to the Selectboard meeting scheduled for September 30^th to present more information.  A decision will be made at that time whether or not to include this question as an article on the ballot for March 7^th.

Executive Session:

Larry Dupont made a motion at 8:25 PM to enter into Executive Session for a personnel issue and Jeff Potvin seconded the motion. 

Doug Robertson made a motion to come out of Executive Session at 8:35 PM and Larry Dupont seconded the motion.  A motion was then read into the record by Marie Kilbride as follows:  “The Selectboard directs the Chairs of the Planning Commission and the Zoning Board of Adjustment to move forward immediately with the dismissal listed in the letter dated January 9, 2006, with such action to be effective immediately.  Larry Dupont seconded the motion. There being no further discussion, the motion was unanimously approved on a voice vote (5-0).

Adjournment:

Doug Robertson made a motion to adjourn at 8:35 PM and Marie placed a second.  The meeting adjourned.

 Respectfully submitted, 

DRAFT

MINUTES OF MEETING

NORTH HERO SELECTBOARD

JANUARY 3, 2006 

ATTENDEES:

Bob Greenough                                    Marie Kilbride                          Doug Robertson
Ruth Miller 

ABSENT:

Larry Dupont                                        Kevin Daignault (excused) 

GUESTS:

Brian Costello                                       Courtney Fisher                        Jim Giroux
Tracy Giroux

Call Meeting to Order:

Co-Chair, Doug Robertson, called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM. 

Guests:

Brian Costello from Local Motion was recognized and presented with a written response from the Selectboard in follow-up to his presentation given at the December 19, 2005 meeting (copy attached).  The Board agreed with the concept of the possible lay out of the trails, which signals to Local Motion enough support to start meeting with the land owners and see what happens then before anything else gets built. 

Minutes of December 19, 2005:

Bob Greenough made a motion to approve the minutes of December 19, 2005, and Marie Kilbride placed a second.   

Paragraph 2, page 2, Marie Kilbride further advised she had spoken with Anne Cozzens of the Vermont Preservation Trust and Jane Lendway of the Vermont Department of Historic Preservation and they would like to make a presentation together on February 6, 2006.  Marie also contacted Eileen Mitchell and Tracy Giroux of the North Hero Historical Society to inform them of the presentation to occur on February 6^th and they also agreed to do a presentation at that same meeting so that it will all be done at once. 

In follow-up to paragraph 3, page 4, Larry Dupont did write a notice pertaining to the Selectboard/Water Board informational meeting to occur on January 14^th.  All Board members present signed the notice, which will be forwarded to The Islander for publication in their January 10^th issue. 

Marie Kilbride clarified that in paragraph 6, page 4, she had suggested the Historical Society make a proposal and Doug Robertson requested that it be put in writing. 

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING
JANUARY 3, 2006
PAGE 2 

There being no further discussion, the minutes were unanimously approved on a voice vote (3-0). 

Bills/Budget:

The warrant and attached bills were circulated for approval.   

Public Works Foreman:

No report. 

Water:

Selectboard/Water Board Informational Meeting notice signed.  See Minutes of December 19, 2005. 

Town Clerk/Treasurer:

Ruth Miller advised that Chip Stearns from NEMRC will again be working on the Chart of Accounts on January 6^th in the office.  She further advised that it is a busy time in the Town Clerk’s office in that work is being done on the Town Report, an update is in progress of the 911 addresses for the Town, incorporating annual and seasonal water users in the same document by 911 address.  She reported that both water and property tax payments have been collected in a timely fashion as reports of December 31, 2005 will confirm.  Overall, she is very pleased with how collections are going utilizing the new NEMRC software. 

Doug Robertson asked Ruth to research the possibility of having property taxes paid on a quarterly basis instead of the three payments that are currently in place.  Board members in attendance were in agreement that this needs to be researched and reported back at a future meeting. 

Correspondence:

A letter from the Robert and Beverley Camp and Paul and Carlene Letourneau was received stating they and Helen Kenney would be willing to consider exchanging property to meet setbacks for the new Town Office Building.   

Marie Kilbride then distributed a document submitted to her on January 3^rd by Courtney Fisher following a discussion held previously pertaining to the site plan for the Town Office Building. 

Marie also advised that both Chip Porter and John Lambert have indicated their respective boards would be available for consultations or discussions with the Selectboard at any given time pertaining to the Town Office Building. 

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING
JANUARY 3, 2006
PAGE 3 

Doug Robertson advised a Certificate of Highway Mileage has been received from the Vermont Agency of Transportation, which needs signatures of Selectboard members, as well as the Town Clerk’s signature indicating there are no changes in mileage or highway classification. 

A letter has also been received from the State of Vermont Department of Taxes indicating that the common level of appraisal has gone from 75% down to 65.49%, which means if the budget doesn’t change, the school taxes will go up an automatic 10%. 

Old Business:

Doug Robertson reminded that at the last meeting of the Selectboard he was authorized to write a letter of support for Larry Dupont’s reappointment to the VTCAC for another term.  A copy of the letter of support was distributed. 

A thank you card was received from Biffie Gallant for the luncheon and ham given to her during the holiday season. 

Executive Session:

Not necessary. 

Adjournment:

Marie Kilbride made a motion to adjourn and Bob Greenough seconded the motion.  The meeting adjourned at 7:10 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

DRAFT

MINUTES OF MEETING

NORTH HERO SELECTBOARD

JANUARY 3, 2006 

ATTENDEES:

Bob Greenough                                    Marie Kilbride                          Doug Robertson
Ruth Miller 

ABSENT:

Larry Dupont                                        Kevin Daignault (excused) 

GUESTS:

Brian Costello                                       Courtney Fisher                        Jim Giroux
Tracy Giroux

Call Meeting to Order:

Co-Chair, Doug Robertson, called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM. 

Guests:

Brian Costello from Local Motion was recognized and presented with a written response from the Selectboard in follow-up to his presentation given at the December 19, 2005 meeting (copy attached).  The Board agreed with the concept of the possible lay out of the trails, which signals to Local Motion enough support to start meeting with the land owners and see what happens then before anything else gets built. 

Minutes of December 19, 2005:

Bob Greenough made a motion to approve the minutes of December 19, 2005, and Marie Kilbride placed a second.   

Paragraph 2, page 2, Marie Kilbride further advised she had spoken with Anne Cozzens of the Vermont Preservation Trust and Jane Lendway of the Vermont Department of Historic Preservation and they would like to make a presentation together on February 6, 2006.  Marie also contacted Eileen Mitchell and Tracy Giroux of the North Hero Historical Society to inform them of the presentation to occur on February 6^th and they also agreed to do a presentation at that same meeting so that it will all be done at once. 

In follow-up to paragraph 3, page 4, Larry Dupont did write a notice pertaining to the Selectboard/Water Board informational meeting to occur on January 14^th.  All Board members present signed the notice, which will be forwarded to The Islander for publication in their January 10^th issue. 

Marie Kilbride clarified that in paragraph 6, page 4, she had suggested the Historical Society make a proposal and Doug Robertson requested that it be put in writing. 

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING
JANUARY 3, 2006
PAGE 2 

There being no further discussion, the minutes were unanimously approved on a voice vote (3-0). 

Bills/Budget:

The warrant and attached bills were circulated for approval.   

Public Works Foreman:

No report. 

Water:

Selectboard/Water Board Informational Meeting notice signed.  See Minutes of December 19, 2005. 

Town Clerk/Treasurer:

Ruth Miller advised that Chip Stearns from NEMRC will again be working on the Chart of Accounts on January 6^th in the office.  She further advised that it is a busy time in the Town Clerk’s office in that work is being done on the Town Report, an update is in progress of the 911 addresses for the Town, incorporating annual and seasonal water users in the same document by 911 address.  She reported that both water and property tax payments have been collected in a timely fashion as reports of December 31, 2005 will confirm.  Overall, she is very pleased with how collections are going utilizing the new NEMRC software. 

Doug Robertson asked Ruth to research the possibility of having property taxes paid on a quarterly basis instead of the three payments that are currently in place.  Board members in attendance were in agreement that this needs to be researched and reported back at a future meeting. 

Correspondence:

A letter from the Robert and Beverley Camp and Paul and Carlene Letourneau was received stating they and Helen Kenney would be willing to consider exchanging property to meet setbacks for the new Town Office Building.   

Marie Kilbride then distributed a document submitted to her on January 3^rd by Courtney Fisher following a discussion held previously pertaining to the site plan for the Town Office Building. 

Marie also advised that both Chip Porter and John Lambert have indicated their respective boards would be available for consultations or discussions with the Selectboard at any given time pertaining to the Town Office Building. 

MINUTES OF SELECTBOARD MEETING
JANUARY 3, 2006
PAGE 3 

Doug Robertson advised a Certificate of Highway Mileage has been received from the Vermont Agency of Transportation, which needs signatures of Selectboard members, as well as the Town Clerk’s signature indicating there are no changes in mileage or highway classification. 

A letter has also been received from the State of Vermont Department of Taxes indicating that the common level of appraisal has gone from 75% down to 65.49%, which means if the budget doesn’t change, the school taxes will go up an automatic 10%. 

Old Business:

Doug Robertson reminded that at the last meeting of the Selectboard he was authorized to write a letter of support for Larry Dupont’s reappointment to the VTCAC for another term.  A copy of the letter of support was distributed. 

A thank you card was received from Biffie Gallant for the luncheon and ham given to her during the holiday season. 

Executive Session:

Not necessary. 

Adjournment:

Marie Kilbride made a motion to adjourn and Bob Greenough seconded the motion.  The meeting adjourned at 7:10 PM.

Respectfully submitted,