Richford VT

SELECTBOARD MEETING
RICHFORD, VERMONT

DECEMBER 15, 2008

Chair Eric Collins called the regular meeting to order at 7:00 PM with members Linda Collins, Robert St. Pierre, and Norris Tillotson present. Also present were Laura Ovitt, Charlotte Rosshandler, and Tim Green.

Joanne Daigneault had asked to be on the agenda, but was not present. Joanne asked for something in writing regarding the board’s plans for the Smith Road culvert. Norris Tillotson and Robert St. Pierre reported that stream alteration will probably be needed, and that the issue will be discussed further during budget meetings to consider placing rip rap on the lower bank. Laura will prepare a letter.

Charlotte Rosshandler discussed the hydro-turbine project on Alder Brook being proposed by Charles Hotchkin, saying he will need to be on her land to do the project. The board said they had given him an easement to work in the town’s right of way at the end of the culvert. Laura will contact John Nutting to have him mark the town’s boundary. Charlotte will be given the information.

Motion made by Linda Collins, seconded by Norris Tillotson, to approve the minutes of the Dec. 1 regular meeting. The motion carried with Robert St. Pierre abstaining.

Linda Collins directed Laura to call VT Electric to have a street light installed on Intervale Ave. near Helen Thompson’s house.

Norris Tillotson reported that the outlets in Memorial Park have been repaired and upgraded.
The control for the traffic light on Main and River Streets is on order.
Norris met with the bike park committee at the playground. They determined the best place would be where the community garden had been. The Legion has donated $500 for the project.

Linda Collins reported she received a letter from the library explaining how their employees are paid.
Linda reported the door at the emergency services building has not yet been replaced. She will contact Marcia Perry.  The light sconces outside the building are not working. Laura will contact George Jacobs. Eric Collins will contact Overhead Door Company regarding the remotes for the doors.

The board discussed Carolyn Gendron’s request to have her mother and her daughter removed from the municipal trash service. Motion made by Linda Collins, seconded by Robert St. Pierre, that Shelly Gendron be permitted to take her trash from her Green Avenue home to her Troy Street business and, because Shelly’s business is located in Mrs. Heald’s house, Mrs. Heald may also take her trash to Shelly’s business. The motion carried. Laura was directed to send a letter to Carolyn.

Selectboard Meeting Minutes
December 15, 2008
Page 2

The board discussed the back-up reservoir on Breault’s Hill. It is currently dry because the intake is plugged. The town is able to correct the problem. The board confirmed a verbal agreement that was made between the Village Trustees and Maurice and Paulette Legault that the reservoir runoff will be piped into the Legault’s pond in exchange for being permitted to access the reservoir across their land.

The board discussed public safety and the sheriff’s contract, considering several possible scenarios. There will be further discussion during budget meetings.

Recently passed ordinances are now in effect. Certified copies will be provided to the sheriff.

The board discussed installing fencing on the top of the wall at Memorial Park. The Legion may be will to assist financially.

Laura reported that updated draft zoning bylaws have been received.

Laura requested and was granted Dec. 19 as a vacation day.

The board received a thank you from the LeClairs for flowers sent at the time of George’s death. The board also received a thank you from Meals on Wheels for the appropriation.

The board discussed budget meetings. Their next regular meeting will be January 5 at 7:00 PM. They decided to work on the budget as follows: Thurs., Jan. 8 at 4:00 PM, Mon. Jan. 12 at 6:00 PM, Thurs. Jan 15 at 6:00 PM, Mon., Jan. 19 at 6:00 PM and if needed Tues. Jan. 20 at 6:00 PM.

Eric Collins reported the current CLA is 103.7%.

Robert St. Pierre reported the town has received a Better Back Roads grant of $7000 for work on Wightman Hill.

Motion made by Robert St. Pierre, seconded by Linda Collins, to adjourn at 8:45 PM.

Laura Ovitt
Administrative Assistant