SELECTBOARD MEETING
RICHFORD, VERMONT


APRIL 17, 2006

Chairman Dale Guertin called the regular meeting to order at 7:05 with members Eric Collins, Margaret Larivee and Larry Stephens (7:15) present. Also present were Clerk Gary Snider, Carroll McAllister, Marion Paul, Suzanne Lavalla, Nan Tomlinson, Tim Green and Laura Ovitt.

Marion Paul spoke on behalf of the Planning Commission members regarding naming an acting and/or assistant zoning administrator. She offered Hank Albarelli, Harold R. Mattson, and Greg Hall for consideration. Marion suggested advertising the position, and having the Planning Commission interview candidates before making further recommendations to the Selectboard. Suzanne stated notices of violation are far behind. 
Dale asked for recommendations for appointment as representatives to the Regional Planning Commission. Suzanne Lavalla and Nan Tomlinson volunteered, and were so appointed. Laura was directed to send each of them letters of confirmation. The Planning Commission members left at 7:15.

Motion made by Eric Collins, seconded by Margaret Larivee, to approve the April 3 minutes. The motion carried unanimously.

Gary Snider advised that applications for the Highway Foreman position have been received from Harold Foote Jr. and Roland Lontine. The Board determined to run the advertisement again, stating that the position is available due to separating water and wastewater duties from the highway department.

Eric Collins advised that Carroll McAllister has built the new shower stall for the ambulance bay, and that he and Carroll will coordinate to complete the installation.

Dale advised the Board of an all-day Tax Appeal workshop being held on May 11 or May 18. The Board determined copies of the notice will be sent to the Justices of the Peace.

Nan Tomlinson advised that trash being dumped from a point on Harlem Street is accumulating behind her house. Larry Stephens stated the trash will be cleaned up and a sign will be set to try to prevent reaccurances. Nan left at 7:30.

Larry Stephens discussed arrangements for Green-Up Day. He said volunteers should meet at the Town Garage at 8:00 AM on May 6. He said sites needing attention are being identified and volunteers are being recruited.

Dale advised of a two-day Selectboard Institute being held April 22 and May 6.

Motion made by Margaret Larivee, seconded by Larry Stephens, to approve the progress report for the Town Hall Accessibility Grant. The motion carried.

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April 17, 2006
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Dale advised of two grant programs – the 2007 Transportation Enhancement Grant and the Jeffords’ Stormwater Mitigation Grant – that are available. The Board will review the information and decide at the May 15 meeting whether to apply for funds.

Matt Irons arrived at 7:45 to submit his application for the Highway Foreman position. Matt left the meeting.

Larry Stephens discussed his disappointment with the work ethic of some employees. He said he admires the work that Robert Shover is doing. Larry added that he is concerned that people are able to take time off without giving any prior notice. Laura was directed to contact VLCT and other towns to obtain samples of leave policies. Larry said John Nutting will work as interim foreman until the new position is filled.
Larry advised the new backstops are being set at the Playground; hopefully the work will be done by the end of the week.
Larry advised he has contacted most of the people who maintain parks and cemeteries during the summer.

Eric Collins advised he is working with the Main Street Mill architect on behalf of the Fire Department regarding how to most economically and efficiently provide fire protection for the project.

Eric advised a letter needs to be sent to Tim Camisa who owns the former church on Main Street directing him to remove the debris from behind his building.

Eric discussed the VT State Police Citizen Advisory Board. The Selectboard determined quarterly reports from this body would be adequate.

Laura advised the Dry Hydrant Grant for South Richford Road has been awarded.

Laura advised she spoke with Claude Desautels regarding the delinquent trash bill on property he recently purchased. He said he has a dumpster, and was told he needed Selectboard permission for that action. Laura was directed to send a letter to Claude explaining the situation.

The Board reviewed the manual they had directed Laura to prepare that includes ordinances, employee pay scales and benefits, a directory of elected/appointed/hired persons, policies and procedures, etc. Laura asked for guidance on how to best organize material that has not yet been included.

Motion made by Eric Collins, seconded by Larry Stephens, to approve liquor licenses for Green’s Lodging (dba Grey Gables Mansion), Jim’s Bar & Grill (dba Ricochet), Richford Country Club, and Casa Mia, Inc. (dba The Crossing). The motion carried unanimously.

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April 17, 2006
Page 3

Gary Snider advised that notification has been received from the VT Dept. of Health appointing Ken Lavalla as assistant health officer. The notice further advised that documentation submitted for Suzanne Lavalla will be retained until her appointment as Health Officer expires next year.

Gary advised a Revolving Loan Fund application has been received from Jill Noyes for funds to purchase the River Street House of Pizza. He said the Loan Fund Committee has met and did not recommend approval of the loan because only equipment is offered as collateral. Laura was directed to send a letter requesting additional collateral for the loan.

Dale Guertin advised that Albert Perry will represent the Town at the VCDP 2005 Project Completion Achievement ceremony being held at the State House on April 18.

The meeting adjourned at 9:10 PM.



Laura Ovitt
Administrative Assistant




APRIL 3, 2006

Chairman Dale Guertin called the regular meeting to order at 7:00 PM with members Eric Collins, Roger Gendron, Margaret Larivee and Larry Stephens present. Also present were Clerk Gary Snider, Laura Ovitt, Garry Shover, and Brad Aldrich of Forcier Aldrich Consulting Engineers.

Brad Aldrich distributed a package recommending the bid for the wastewater treatment plant phosphorus removal project be awarded to G.W. Tatro, who had the low bid of $442,550. Motion made by Roger Gendron, seconded by Eric Collins, to award the contract to G.W. Tatro. The motion passed unanimously. Gary Snider executed the agreement on behalf of the Board.

Gary Snider advised the Board that the Northwest Regional Planning Commission sent a letter asking the Board to appoint two representatives to their Board, and to appoint a representative to the Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC). The Board determined that a note will be sent to the Planning Commission asking for recommendations for appointments. Motion made by Margaret Larivee, seconded by Roger Gendron, to appoint James Tomlinson as the TAC representative. The motion carried unanimously.

Gary Snider advised that the Agency of Natural Resources requires the Selectboard to execute an Event Approval for the Solid Waste District’s Household Hazardous Waste Collection. Motion made by Roger Gendron, seconded by Larry Stephens to execute the approval. The motion passed unanimously.
Gary Snider left at this time.

Motion made by Larry Stephens, seconded by Margaret Larivee, to enter executive session at 7:10 PM to discuss personnel issues. The motion carried unanimously. Laura Ovitt left at this point.

Motion made by Eric Collins, seconded by Larry Stephens, to leave executive session at 7:48 PM. The motion carried unanimously. Laura was invited to rejoin the meeting. Garry Shover had left the meeting.

As a result of executive session, motion made by Larry Stephens, seconded by Margaret Larivee, that as of May 1, 2006, Garry Shover will be foreman for the water and sewer treatment plants, and that the Town will advertise for a highway foreman. The motion carried unanimously. Laura was directed to send a letter to Garry advising him of the decision. Laura requested assistance in preparing the advertisement for highway foreman.

Dale Guertin discussed the new conference room. Eric Collins explained the evolution of the project, saying that State code changed on July 1, 2006, which required changing the plan for this space. He recommended considering a smaller table. After much discussion, the Board agreed to think about his recommendation.

Dale Guertin read a letter from Matthew Irons expressing his interest in being appointed assistant highway foreman if the position becomes open. The letter will be placed in his personnel file.

Motion made by Margaret Larivee, seconded by Eric Collins, to approve the March 20 minutes as distributed. The motion carried unanimously.

Dale Guertin read a letter from the Richford Firefighters’ Association recommending that Paul Martin, Ken Pigeon and Robert Wetherby be appointed as Fire Engineers for the ensuing year. Motion made by Eric Collins, seconded by Larry Stephens, to approve the appointments. The motion carried unanimously.
Laura was directed to send a letter to the Association advising them of the decision.


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April 3, 2006
Page 2

Motion made by Roger Gendron, seconded by Larry Stephens, to authorize Gary Snider to sign the Dry Hydrant Grant Application on behalf of the Selectboard. The motion carried unanimously.

Dale Guertin advised the Board of the Agency of Transportation’s Highway Stormwater Mitigation Grant Program. Laura reminded the Board that this is the program being considered for the salt shed at the Town Garage, and that if they are still considering the program someone should attend the informational meeting in St. Albans on April 11.

The Board received the financial plan resulting from the annual meeting with the District 8 Agency of Transportation.

Dale Guertin read a thank you note from Dora Hurtubise for the flowers sent to her after her back surgery.

Dale Guertin advised the Board of the Incident Command System training being held at the Emergency Services Building on April 18, and directed Laura Ovitt to notify the Ambulance Service of the event.

Eric Collins reported Carroll McAllister has built the shower for the Ambulance station, but they have not yet located the water shutoff for the existing shower.

Larry Stephens reported that the High School will pay for a new backstop for the girl’s softball field at the Playground. Other work to be done includes enlarging the parking lot and replacing the backstop at the boy’s field.

The Board directed Laura Ovitt to prepare a manual that includes all ordinances, employee pay scales (to be provided by Gary Snider), employee benefits, a directory of all employees and elected/appointed officials including phone numbers, all policies and procedures, employee interview and evaluation forms, personnel policies, and the rapid response plan. 

Laura was directed to prepare street clean-up schedule to begin May 1.

The Board executed Closeout Agreement Annual Certification for the Main Street Mill CDBG grants.

Eric Collins advised that the contract for the Main Street Mill has been awarded to Conner Construction.

Motion made by Eric Collins, seconded by Larry Stephens, to approve liquor licenses for Pinnacle Peddler and the American Legion. The motion carried unanimously.

The meeting adjourned at 8:54 PM.



Laura Ovitt
Administrative Assistant




MARCH 20, 2006

Chairman Dale Guertin called the regular meeting to order at 7:00 PM with members Eric Collins, Roger Gendron, Margaret Larivee and Larry Stephens present. Also present were Laura Ovitt, Carolyn Gendron, Dick Crandlemire, Jane Greenwood, Nan Tomlinson, Kim Collins, and Albert Perry. 

REAC Directors Jane Greenwood, Kim Collins and Albert Perry discussed a proposal presented by Albert for the sale of the Wheeler Block, and asked what the Selectboard would accept as pay-off. Albert suggested it would be better to sell the building at a loss than to lose the entire loan. Background information was presented; Dale clarified the 20-foot maintenance easement agreed to in June 2003. The Selectboard agreed by consensus that they want to be paid at least the principal amount, and told REAC to go back to their realtor. Jane thanked the Board, saying she appreciated their willingness to consider an offer.

Larry Carr arrived at 7:20. He asked that the water line be disconnected from Clydia Clark’s house, saying no one will live there again. The house will be removed and the lot sold as bare land. The Board agreed, and asked Larry to contact Garry Shover.

Laura Ovitt reported that Garry Shover is helping her get the necessary numbers for the dry hydrant grant application.

Motion made by Margaret Larivee, seconded by Larry Stephens, to approve the minutes of the Feb. 13 and March 6 meetings. The motion carried.

Dale Guertin advised that the $24,500 grant application for the generator at the elementary school was approved, and that papers were signed today.

Thank you cards were read from Elaine Reirden for town support of the Senior Meal Site, and from Linda Collins for town support of the Historical Society.

Motion made by Margaret Larivee, seconded by Roger Gendron, to authorize the collection of attorney’s fees for the collection of delinquent taxes, and that the authorization shall continue until terminated by further action of the Selectboard. The motion carried.

The Board was informed of a public meeting being held March 27 at the Swanton Industrial Park regarding part 2 of Vermont’s Energy Plan.

Motion made by Larry Stephens, seconded by Roger Gendron, to approve a Tax Anticipation Note with Community National Bank for $600,000 at 4.17%. The motion carried.

The Board was informed of a grant program creating a revolving loan fund for improvements on manufactured homes. Motion made by Roger Gendron, seconded by Margaret Larivee, to adopt 
Selectboard Meeting Minutes
March 20, 2006
Page 2

a resolution designating Opportunities Credit Union as the Nonprofit Community Development Organization (NCDO) to receive operate the revolving loan fund. The Board was advised that adopting the resolution would not affect the Richford Revolving Loan Fund in any way. The motion carried.

Motion made by Eric Collins, seconded by Margaret Larivee to approve the Town’s contract with the Franklin County Sheriff’s office. The contract includes an increase of $750 over last year. The Board explained that the Town has gained travel time due to the new outpost office at the Town Hall. The motion carried.

Motion made by Eric Collins, seconded by Roger Gendron, to approve liquor licenses for L&M General Store (East Richford Slide Rd.) and for Mrs. Coy Investments (River St. House of Pizza). The motion carried.

Motion made by Margaret Larivee, seconded by Larry Stephens to appoint Connie Burns, Wayne Hurtubise and Carroll McAllister to the Zoning Board of Adjustment. The motion carried.

Motion made by Roger Gendron, seconded by Margaret Larivee to reappoint all current appointed positions, except naming Carolyn Gendron and Richard Crandlemire as Fence Viewers and Daniel Parsons as Energy Coordinator. The motion carried.

Motion made by Roger Gendron, seconded by Larry Stephens, to reappoint Mary Mankin as Town Service Officer. The motion carried.

Motion made by Eric Collins, seconded by Margaret Larivee, to appoint Kim Collins as Inspector of Lumber, Wood and Shingles and as Weigher of Coal. State Stature requires these positions to be filled. The motion carried.

Motion made by Eric Collins, Seconded by Margaret Larivee, to appoint Jean Jacobs to a 3-year term and Wendell Fortier to a 2-year term on the Richford Revolving Loan Fund Application Committee. The motion carried.

Motion made by Larry Stephens, seconded by Eric Collins, to appoint Dale Guertin as Selectboard Chairman; Roger Gendron as Water/Sewer Commissioner; Larry Stephens as Highway/Parks/Cemeteries Commissioner; and, Eric Collins and Margaret Larivee as joint Public Buildings/Public Safety Commissioners. The motion carried.

The Board advised Carolyn Gendron of information they had received from the Agency of Transportation regarding changing parking on Troy Street. Carolyn said she had been told by the Agency that the street is the Town’s responsibility. The Board agreed to move the lines and to change parking to the North side of the street.
Selectboard Meeting Minutes
March 20, 2006
Page 3

Motion made by Roger Gendron, seconded by Larry Stephens, to enter executive session at 8:50 PM to discuss personnel issues. All guests except Laura Ovitt left. The motion carried.
Motion made by Roger Gendron, seconded by Larry Stephens to leave executive at 9:00 PM. The motion carried.
As a result of executive session, a letter will be sent to the Planning Commission regarding appointment of administrative officer(s). A letter received from a town employee will be discussed at a later date.

The Board discussed a new grant program offered through the Agency of Transportation that might be appropriate for the salt shed planned at the Town Garage. An information meeting will be held in St. Albans on April 11; someone will try to attend.

The Board discussed the bill presented by Douglas Billado for damage to his windshield. The Board agreed to pay the bill.

The meeting adjourned at 9:05 PM.



Laura Ovitt
Administrative Assistant


FEBRUARY 13, 2006

Chairman Dale Guertin called the regular meeting to order at 7:00 PM with members Eric Collins, Roger Gendron, Margaret Larivee and Larry Stephens present. Also present were Laura Ovitt, Jed Finley, Carolyn Gendron, and Doug Billado.

Jed Finley was present to discuss his trash bill, explaining that he had not understood the rules and now has a large balance that he would like to be forgiven. The Board explained that, under the Town’s contract, the hauler still gets paid so the past due charges cannot be written off. They said that Mr. Finley should make arrangements with the office to pay the bill and that he will be given stickers for the current period when he does so.

Carolyn Gendron discussed damage being done to her mother’s house on Troy St. when the streets are plowed. She asked whether the parking could be changed to the North side of the street. The Board said that the State was supposed to review the issue and send a letter regarding the situation. The Board needs to speak with Gary Snider and Garry Shover and will get back to Carolyn, and will send her a copy of the State’s letter. The parking ordinance will also need to be changed.
Carolyn asked about the possibility of a stop light by the Main/Troy St. intersection.
Carolyn asked to be notified when the Town’s Willow Street property comes up for lease again.

Doug Billado discussed damage done to his windshield when a stone came off one of the Town trucks. Doug submitted his bill to the Board, who will submit it to the insurance company.

Motion made by Roger Gendron, seconded by Eric Collins, to approve the minutes of the January 11, 16, 25 and 27 meetings. The motion carried.

Dale read a letter from the State Hazard Mitigation Officer regarding possible reimbursement through FEMA for a portion of the Town’s expense for the waterline river-crossing project. The Board determined that Gary Snider should follow up on the letter.

The Board received a letter from the Northern Forest Canoe Trail Board requesting permission to place signage at specific sites along the Missisquoi River; the Board agreed to the signage. The letter included brochures about the Canoe Trail, which will be displayed.


Selectboard Meeting Minutes
February 13, 2006
Page 2

The Board received a letter from David Boocock stating he might be interested if an additional or replacement Zoning Administrator is appointed. The Board informed Marion Paul, Planning Commission Chair, and determined they will ask Mr. Boocock and Darlene Marrier (current ZA) to attend the March 20 meeting.

The Board received a letter from Kristina Hoadley regarding late fees attached to her water billing. She included a copy of a page of the water ordinance that stated “…bills are due immediately and will be considered in arrears if unpaid 30 days following the envelope’s postmark date.” The Board agreed that the $15.12 will be refunded, and the ordinance will be updated.

Motion made by Eric Collins, seconded by Larry Stephens, to approve applications for the State’s paving grant program and the State’s bridge/culvert grant program. The motion carried.

A letter of support was received from the Regional Planning Commission for the Town’s USDA Rural Development grant application for a generator at the elementary school.

The Board reviewed a letter from Chief Patrol Agent Ronald Vitiello, which responded to the Board’s package of potential sites for relocating the Border Patrol Office. The Board reviewed a letter from REAC President L. Jane Greenwood, requesting follow-up information and offering her Board’s assistance. Laura will send Jane a letter.

Motion made by Eric Collins, seconded by Roger Gendron, to approve liquor licenses for Wetherby’s Quick Stop, South Main Quick Stop, and Mayhew’s Corner Store. The motion carried.

Eric Collins gave an update on the construction being done at the Town Hall.

Eric reported that the State Police would try to have an officer at each Town Meeting in the county.

Dale Guertin reported that Carroll McAllister is waiting for some of the parts to arrive to finish the shower for the Ambulance Station.

The Board approved a letter to the American Legion thanking them for donating new American and POW flags.

The Board approved a request from the Drug Free Coalition to hold a St. Patrick’s Day dance at the Town Hall on March 18 from 7-11 PM, provided the stage is not used, the
Selectboard Meeting Minutes
February 13, 2006
Page 3

curtain remains down, all refreshments are downstairs and are not taken into the auditorium, and that people coordinate with Angie Tracy for set-up and clean-up.

The Board was advised they will need to appoint an Inspector of Lumber, Shingles & Wood, and a Weigher of Coal when regular appointments are made.

The meeting adjourned at 8:30 PM.


Laura Ovitt
Administrative Assistant




JANUARY 27, 2006

Chairman Dale Guertin called the special meeting to order at 3:30 PM with members Eric Collins, Roger Gendron, Margaret Larivee and Larry Stephens present. Also present were Clerk Gary Snider and Laura Ovitt.

Gary reported the 2005 fund balance is $104,000, saying there are a lot of receivables. He said the proposed tax rate would be $1.2229 using the proposed budget as discussed and anticipating a $1 million growth in the grand list.

Motion made by Larry Stephens, seconded by Roger Gendron, to accept the proposed budget as discussed. The motion carried.

Motion made by Roger Gendron, seconded by Larry Stephens, to accept the warning as presented. The motion carried.

The meeting adjourned at 3:50 PM.

Laura Ovitt
Administrative Assistant


JANUARY 25, 2006

Chairman Dale Guertin called the special meeting to order at 7:00 PM with members Eric Collins, Roger Gendron, Margaret Larivee and Larry Stephens present. Also present were Clerk Gary Snider, Laura Ovitt, Zoning Administrator Darlene Marrier, and Gary Marrier.

Darlene Marrier was present at the request of the Board to discuss activities relative to her office. The Board expressed concern that the extra hours approved in August 2004 were not being worked. They said they might consider paying for hours actually worked rather than a flat fee.
Darlene discussed the income/expense of the Zoning office for 2005. She said she would try to change her hours in Berkshire so that she could stay in Richford for a full day on Thursdays. The Board said if that worked they would not change the published hours.

The Board continued work on the proposed 2006 budget.

The meeting adjourned at 9:00 PM.

Laura Ovitt
Administrative Assistant


JANUARY 16, 2006

Chairman Dale Guertin called the regular meeting to order at 7:00 PM with members Eric Collins, Roger Gendron, Margaret Larivee and Larry Stephens present. Also present were Clerk Gary Snider, Laura Ovitt, Brad Aldrich and Wayne Elliot of Forcier, Aldrich Consulting Engineers, Joe Pollender and Garry Shover.

The Forcier, Aldrich consultants were present to discuss the phosphorus removal project at the sewer plant. Wayne Elliot stated the final design is finished, permits are in hand and the project, which needs to be operational by the end of September, is ready to bid in February. He presented the application for the $680,000 construction grant (which includes permitting and final design). Motion made by Roger Gendron, seconded by Margaret Larivee, to accept the grant application and to name Gary Snider as the authorized representative. The motion carried.
Mr. Elliot further stated that the Town’s operating permit requires a 20-year engineering evaluation, which needs to be done by the end of this year. He presented a proposal for the evaluation for the Board’s consideration.
Brad Aldrich presented a Step 3 Construction Phase Engineering Agreement. The agreement, totaling a not-to-exceed $68,700, covers the project from advertising for bids through the one-year warranty period. Motion made by Roger Gendron, seconded by Margaret Larivee, to accept the agreement and to authorize Gary Snider to sign. The motion carried.

Joe Pollender discussed the right-of-way for the water lines going in and out of the reservoir on Breault’s hill. The deeds state location of the lines but not the width. The Board and Joe agreed on a 30-foot right-of-way for planning purposes. Joe asked about the possibility of changing the water line so that it is straight and not diagonal. The Board agreed, contingent on Joe’s project paying all associated costs.

Gary Snider read a letter from REAC President L. Jane Greenwood, stating that the REAC Board wanted to work with the Selectboard to keep the Border Patrol in Richford. The letter is so noted.

The applicants for Revolving Loan funds have presented a subordination agreement for a second mortgage on the primary property being used as collateral. The Board determined that if they can also present a subordination agreement for the second mortgage on the secondary property, they will approve the loan.

Garry Shover worked with the Board on the Public Works budgets.

The meeting adjourned at 9:10 PM.



Laura Ovitt
Administrative Assistant


JANUARY 11, 2006

Chairman Dale Guertin called the special meeting to order at 7:00 PM with members Eric Collins, Roger Gendron, Margaret Larivee and Larry Stephens present. Also present were Clerk Gary Snider, Laura Ovitt, Tammy Ryea and Richard Ryea.

Tammy and Richard were present to request an article on the March 7 ballot for a renewal of the tax stabilization contract for Peoples Plaza. Tammy explained that the number of employees has exceeded the original plan, and that the fitness center membership has not reached the level anticipated. They continue to operate the fitness center at a loss because they believe it is needed in the community. The Board agreed to warn an article that will include the same terms as the original agreement. The Ryeas left the meeting.

Motion made by Roger Gendron, seconded by Margaret Larivee, to approve the minutes of the January 4 regular meeting as distributed. The motion carried.

The Board discussed the Revolving Loan Fund application, and determined that Gary Snider should discuss the outstanding mortgages with the applicant.

Librarian Cynthia Plenge joined the meeting at 7:14 to discuss the Library’s budget request. She explained that State accreditation has been lost because not enough was spent per capita on materials. The library’s collections have grown through contributions, but that is not taken into consideration for accreditation. The current request is set up to regain the accreditation. Cynthia said that everything is cataloged except for the small special collections, the genealogy and magazines. Circulation is down slightly, partly because more people have access to material on-line. She said fund raising was a bit off last year because of a slow start due to illness and lack of staff. However, another dinner/auction is planned for this spring. Cynthia left the meeting.

The Board worked on budgeting for 2006.

Motion made by Roger Gendron, seconded by Margaret Larivee, to set the Town’s mileage reimbursement at the federal rate as of January each year. The motion carried.

The Board requested a letter be sent to Zoning Administrator Darlene Marrier asking her to attend the January 18 budget meeting.

The meeting adjourned at 9:00 PM.



Laura Ovitt
Administrative Assistant


JANUARY 4, 2006


Chairman Dale Guertin called the regular meeting to order at 7:05 with members Eric Collins, Roger Gendron and Larry Stephens present. Also present were Clerk Gary Snider, Laura Ovitt, Garry Shover, and Tim Green.

Tim Green introduced himself as the new owner of Grey Gables Mansion. He said he was present to observe and learn, noting that the minutes on the website had not been updated since September. Laura said she had forgotten to do that, but would take care of it.

Motion made by Eric Collins, seconded by Larry Stephens, to enter executive session at 7:09 PM to discuss employee evaluations. The motion carried. Tim Green left.
Motion made by Eric Collins, seconded by Larry Stephens, to leave executive session at 7:28 PM, taking into consideration the foreman’s recommendations regarding evaluations. The motion carried. Tim Green rejoined the meeting.

The Board discussed establishing a policy for pay increases based on merit evaluations. They determined that public works employees would be sent a letter advising that evaluations have been received, and acknowledging the improvement in working relationships. The letter will advise that the Board will work on a policy that will recognize evaluations, and that the Board appreciates their efforts.

Motion made by Roger Gendron, seconded by Eric Collins, to approve a 50-cent per hour raise for all full time employees and for Robert Wetherby and Mark Ovitt for planning purposes. The increase may be revisited during the budgeting process. The motion carried.

Garry Shover requested permission to order materials needed to replace a portion of the sewer line on Province Street, saying the cost would be about $2500. Motion made by Eric Collins, seconded by Roger Gendron, to approve purchasing the needed materials. The motion carried.

The Board determined that budget meetings will be scheduled at the Town Hall at 7:00 PM on January 9, 11, 16 (regular meeting), and 18; and on Jan 23 and/or 25 as needed.

Motion made by Roger Gendron, seconded by Larry Stephens to approve the December 5 minutes as distributed. The motion carried.

Dale Guertin read a message from the Listers stating they are not asking for a pay increase, but they do need a larger budget. They appreciated the new office and equipment.

Dale reported that Rosaire St.Pierre is working on getting the sealed exterior ashtrays for the public buildings.

Selectboard Meeting Minutes
January 4, 2006
Page 2

Gary Snider reported the certificate of origin for the new fire truck was reportedly shipped today.

The USDA/RD grant application for the elementary school generator was approved and signed.

Dale reported that the Planning/Zoning Board has requested an increase in their meeting stipend. Laura reported the Planning Commission will follow up on the complaint brought to the Selectboard at the November 7 meeting.

Gary Snider reported the current year Common Level of Appraisal, assigned by the State, is 66.88%, vs. 73.63% for 2005. He explained the State will adjust the rate after reappraisal.

Dale Guertin reported that Marcia Perry is in the hospital; the Board will send a card now and flowers when she is home.

Dale reported that Channel 3 news ran a story today about the Main Street Mill Development.

Larry Stephens reported that the two property owners on Pattee Road would like the Board to consider throwing up the road so they can gate it. Gary Snider advised that the road is Class 4 from there to Guilmette road, and that the property owners in between have legal access to the road. Laura will find out who the owners are.

Eric Collins reported that plans for the access renovations at the Town Hall were changed because someone complained. He said that, as a result, when the ramp is built people will need to go outside to move between the new offices in the back and the main part of the building.

Eric asked whether the Main Street Mill could hire the Town to plow the yard so there is access to the building. The Board so agreed.

Eric reported that the Library will be hosting a program at the Town Hall on Jan. 17 to celebrate Benjamin Franklin’s birthday.

Eric reported the stage will not be usable until the electricians finish their work.

Motion made by Roger Gendron, seconded by Eric Collins to accept the Municipal Planning Grant Agreement for updating the Town Plan, and to designate Laura Ovitt as grant administrator. The motion carried.

Motion made by Roger Gendron, seconded by Larry Stephens, to designate Dale Guertin and Eric Collins as authorized signers for requisitions for the Municipal Planning Grant. The motion carried.


Selectboard Meeting Minutes
January 4, 2006
Page 3

Gary Snider presented the certificate of highway mileage from the Agency of Transportation, saying there are no changes. The Board executed the document.

Gary read a thank you from the Vermont Association for the Blind for the appropriation approved last year.

Gary advised that PMB Enterprises has sent notice of their plans to reactivate their land use permit for gravel extraction.

Gary read a letter from Rick and Julie Hoy regarding their application for a loan from the Revolving Loan Fund in which they have offered collateral as requested by the Board. Motion made by Eric Collins, seconded by Larry Stephens, to accept the offer subject to confirming the figures. The motion carried.

Gary reported the VLCT Health Trust has a new program for 2006 through which the Town could see a reduction in their contributions pending employee participation in a wellness program. Gary will attend a meeting and bring more details to a future meeting.

Laura reported she has drafted a package for the Border Patrol offering potential relocation sites.

The meeting adjourned at 9:36 PM.



Laura Ovitt
Administrative Assistant

 2005 Minutes

 2004 Minutes