HomeMy WebLinkAboutSelect Board 08/07/2024Select Board Meeting Minutes
August 7, 2024
Present: Ms. Maureen R. Doherty, Chair; Mr. Brendan Roche, Vice -Chair; Mr. Walter Wilk, k Ms. Diana
Bren and Mr. Michael A. Trowbridge Sr. were present in Meeting Room 3 A/B at Town-filall r K y h bumas
and Mr. Matt Violette, Assistant Town Manager/Finance Director were also present. "' ICE
1. Call To Order Select Board Meeting -Pledge of Allegiance lC�� � `� '� M. ")
Ms. Doherty, Chair called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM. She then reminded everyone that the meet;ng was
being broadcast live and taped for future broadcast on Mansfield Cable. She then asked everyone present to
stand and recite the pledge of allegiance.
2. Police Department— Promotional Ceremony and Department update
Ms. Doherty welcomed Police Chief Ronald Sellon to address the Board and guests. Chief Sellon began with an
address to the group about how today's atmosphere of police affects recruiting and retention efforts. He then
introduced the six new officers who the Chief said were selected from a group of 100 candidates. These
candidates were selected as being the best for our cultural and for building for tomorrow.
Chief Sellon introduced the new police officers and shared their educational and professional credentials. He
introduced Officer Joe Collins, Officer Nicholas lacozzi, Officer Devon Dimascio, Officer Scott Brown, Officer
Catherine Jordan, and Alex Ferraz. Assistant Town Clerk Jennifer Davis official sworn in the officers.
Chief Sellon then moved onto recognizing those who were being promoted. Peter Roche was introduced as
being promoted to Sergeant. Donald "Danny' McClean was introduced as being promoted to Lieutenant.
Nichole Boldrighini was promoted to Lieutenant. Francis Archer was promoted to Deputy Chief. Accolades
were shared for each officer by Chief Sellon. Then they were pinned by their family members.
Ms. Doherty invited the Board members to offer their words to the new officers and those who were
promoted. Mr. Wilk, Mr. Roche, Mr. Trowbridge, Ms. Bren, and Ms. Doherty all welcomed and thanked the
new and elevated officers, as did Town Manager Kevin Dumas and Assistant Town Manager Matt Violette.
Representative Adam Scanlon addressed the group. He shared his thoughts on the role of keeping our
community safe and acknowledged Chief Sellon and his officers for their efforts. He presented each new
officer, and those who were being promoted, with a citation from the House of Representatives.
Ms. Doherty called for a short recess at 6:27 pm to give the officers a chance to greet each other and their
guests before the officers departed for their private celebrations. The meeting resumed at 6:30 pm and
resumed with Item #i5 Public Hearing for transfer of licenses for The Catman Cafe.
S. 6:30PM Public Hearing in Accordance of M.G.L. Chapter 138, Section 12 for a Transfer of an All Alcohol
Common Victualler On Premises License for Ancharon Restaurant Inc. dba The Catman Cafe, located at 16 Old
Colony Way pending routing through Town Departments and Public Safety
In accordance with the provisions of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 138 Section 12, as amended, the
Mansfield Select Board will hold a Public Hearing in Meeting Room 3 A/B, Town Hall, Six Park Row,
Mansfield, MA, on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at 6:30PM on the application of Ancharon Restaurant Inc.
dba The Catman Cafe, to transfer a license for an All Alcoholic Beverages on premises license, from
Chamberlain Avenue Enterprises, Inc. dba Catman Cafe., 16 Old Colony Way, to Ancharon Restaurant Inc.
dba The Catman Cafe, Anyone interested in or wishing to be heard on said application should appear at the
date and time specified.
Mr. Wilk read the public hearing notice and made a motion to open the public hearing at 6:31 pm.
Select Board Meeting Minutes
August 7, 2024
Motion: To open the public hearing. Vote: 5:0 (Wilk/Trowbridge)
Attorney Matthew Porter addressed the Board on behalf of his Client. He stated that the majority of the staff
will be staying on, including the current owner who will stay on as Manager. He added that the business will
remain much the same, as would the business hours. Mr. Trowbridge asked Mr. Steve Cerullo how long he
would be staying on. Mr. Cerullo responded that he expected to stay on for at least two years. Ms. Doherty
asked if The Catman Cafe will be opened on Mondays. There was no comments from the public.
Motion: To close public hearing was closed at 6:37 pm. Vote 5:0 (Wilk/Roche)
Motion: To approve the transfer of an all alcohol beverages on premise license for Ancharon Restaurant Inc.
dba The Catman Cafe. Vote: 5:0 (Wilk/Trowbridge)
The meeting then moved to Item #3 — Town Manager's Report
3. Town Manager's Report
Harry B. Chase, Jr. Place Dedication: The Town Manager announced the date for the dedication of the new
park stating it will take place on August 28, 2024 at 6:00 pm. The park buildout is complete and ready for the
dedication and he thanked DPW for their work in making it look great.
State Budget update: Mr. Violette updated the Board on the final FY2025 cherry sheets figures which include
an additional $260,000 for Mansfield.
State Federal Earmark: The Town Manager reported that the State Budget included three earmarks for
Mansfield. 1. Renewed the Downtown Beautification Project at $50,000. 2. Allocation of $40,000 for
procurement of new uniforms for MHS band. And approval for$25,000 or the design development of a
Parkway through the future TOD enabling the activation of that district. The next portion that the Town
Manager informed the Board of was the Housing Bond Bill which was passed on August 6m which included two
earmarks for Mansfield. 1. $100,000 for development of the Parkway through the TOD and 2. $2,000,000 for
the construction of the TOD connector Parkway. Mr. Dumas shared that unfortunately the Econonmic
Development bond bill was not passed as there could not be consensus in the conference committee and their
formal session has closed. What would have been requested as part of that bill would have been another
$250,000 parkway improvements and $2,000,000 for the future COA facility, but the session closed without a
bill. Mr. Dumas thanked the Town's Senate and Representative delegation for the hard work on behalf of the
Town. He noted that there is another Federal earmark request through Congressman Auchincloss' office that
he is still hopeful about.
Update on Route 106 project —design project schedule: Rt. 106 Corridor improvements and Parkway Design:
Mr. Dumas explained the three phases of the Rt. 106 improvements. He prefaced by stating that the
construction of these projects is being funded by the state and federal government, and oversight of the
projects will be by the state, not the Town. starting with the Rt. 106 — Phase: From Rt. 140 to Copeland Street.
Currently the project is at the 75% design phase. The design public hearing for this was in March of 2023. The
State will be advertising for bid in June 2025 with a current construction cost of $8M. He thanked former DPW
Director Lee Azinheira and current DPW Director Josh Reinke for working in cooperation with his office and for
their work on bringing this to fruition. Phase Two: At pre-25% constructions phase. Current projected cost is
$10M, to be paid by the state and federal grant, and this bid will be advertised in April 2027. Phase Three:
Parkway Connector Collector roadway funded has been secured in the amount of $12M. State and federal
grant funding for this project has been confirmed. Mr. Dumas also noted that there is an additional $5M being
leveraged to make rail yard improvements on that backside of the Hatheway-Patterson property. The Town is
working with the Lieutenant Government to tie together the State's goals with the Town's goals for housing
production. Once the Planning Board completes its process Mr. Dumas would like there to be a joint meeting
between the Planning Board and Select Board. He thanks the Planning Board for their outreach efforts and
hard work on this project. He mentioned that the project's webpage is updated monthly. He also thanks his
staff for the efforts on this project.
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August 7, 2024
Xfinity Capital Expenditures meeting: Mr. Dumas stated that the Xfinity Agreement states that the Town has
an opportunity to discuss capital needs with the General Manager of Xfinity. Mr. Dumas met with the Town's
public safety officials today to prepare for next week's meeting with Mr. Sandoval of Xfinity.
Signage at School Street entrance of Cabot Park: Mr. Dumas updated the Board that there will be new signs
for entrance of the Cabot Business Park at School Street in addition to some aesthetic improvements at that
intersection.
Miscellaneous Items: Water Pollution Abatement Trust: The Town is potentially eligible for zero percent
loans. The Dustin -Prescott Well is a $9+ million project. This opportunity will save between $4M-$9M in
interest depending on the length of the loan. Mr. Violette has been doing the pre -work to prepare the Town
to be eligible for this possible borrowing option. Mr. Dumas also commented on inter -municipal agreements
on water and sewer usage. He informed the Board that he was been working on getting the Town's inter -
municipal agreements updated with Foxboro, Attleboro, and Norton. Now there are three N. Attleboro
residents who are on Mansfield town water service and he is now working on an agreement with them.
Select Board Questions and Comments on Town Manager's Report
Mr. Wilk commented that he has spoken to developers who informed him that there should be a traffic study
done before work begins. Mr. Dumas commented that yes, traffic studies would be done. He added, that the
new traffic signals will be "smart signals" so that the signals in that Rt. 106 area will work collectively to keep
traffic moving during peak times. Mr. Wilk followed up with questions about the allowances that would be in
place should a traffic study identify that a need exists. Mr. Dumas added that the $12M grant for the parkway
connector/collector includes all of the utilities. By doing this as a town we are bringing develop -ready pads to
the developers. Mr. Dumas noted that these projects will be done as with public updates. Mr. Roche stated
that there will be a traffic study will whatever is proposed such as there was with Phase I. Mr. Dumas noted
that parcel one will have about 300 units available and parcel two is close the same and these numbers
needed to be examined in order to be considered for the grant. Ms. Doherty invited the Planning Board and
Planning Director to come to an upcoming Select Board meeting within the next few weeks. She is looking to
identify the roles of each Board/Committee. Ms. Bren commented that she has read through the online
materials and encouraged interested parties to read it as well.
On the topic of Xfinity capital requests, Mr. Roche asked to see a copy of what was submitted. Mr. Dumas
stated that he would be sure to update the Board on what is being submitted. Mr. Trowbridge emphasized the
need for the Board to see these requests prior to submittal to ensure that the Town is not asking for too much
all at once. He feels this communication is important now that the Board is not involved in the development of
the Xfinity agreement. Mr. Dumas shared that the preliminary request has radio upgrades and replacement
and golf carts for police and fire. On the police side there is a request for an equipment vehicle and two vans
that will be requested over a multi -year request. He noted that these requests are based on the portion
shared between the Town and the Xfinity Center. Items shared by the Town and Xfinity will have a shared
cost. Those exclusively used at Xfinity will be paid entirely by Xfinity. Lastly, Mr. Dumas noted that SEMRECC
has replaced the communication infrastructure via a grant that all four SEMRECC towns benefited from. Ms.
Doherty asked about rental fees associated with the Xfinity center. Mr. Dumas replied that the review of those
fees will take place with next year's renewal. Ms. Doherty noted that Cabot Park signs look good and she
noted that there is an island in front of the Plymouth Street Fire Station that needs attention. Mr. Dumas
stated that they will be addressed by Director, Josh Reinke. Ms. Doherty stated that there are several vacant
lots in town that have potential to be developed. She commented that the Select Board may want to consider
this on an upcoming agenda to discuss this land and whether zoning change needs to be considered.
4. Public Comment
Mr. Peter J. Wiggins commented that he had visited the new Harry Chase Place park looks very nice and is
ready for its dedication. He added that Mansfield Hometown Hardware is closing after nearly 30 years.
S. Item #5 taken out of order. See above.
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August 7, 2024
6. Sign the Warrant for the September 3, 2024 State Primary
Motion: To Sign the Warrant for the September 3, 2024 State Primary. Vote: 5:0 (Wilk/Trowbridge)
7. Consideration of job description for Meal Site Aide at the Council on Aging
Motion: To approve the job description for Meal Site Aide at the Council on Aging. Vote: 5:0
(Wilk/Trowbridge)
8. Consideration of job description for Home -Delivered Meals Substitute Driver at the Council on Aging
Motion: To approve the job description for Home -Delivered Meals Substitute Driver at the Council on Aging.
Vote: 5:0 (Wilk/Trowbridge)
9. Reconsideration of job description for Auxiliary Officer for Police Department
Motion: To approve the job description for the Auxiliary Officer for the Police Department. (Wilk/Trowbridge)
Mr. Wilk made the above motion for discussion purposes. Mr. Dumas informed the Board that this
reconsideration is related to some of the positions addressed by this job description are paid. Mr. Trowbridge
noted that one section states that the position requires the employee to have a license to carry, but another
section states that they are not allowed to carry firearms. Mr. Dumas asked Ms. Doherty if this item could be
put on hold while research is done to ensure that the content of the description is accurate. Ms. Doherty
agreed that the Board would pass on this item and reconsider it on the next agenda.
10. General Budget Discussion — Including Budget Subcommittee Update
The general budget discussion agenda item is a regular Select Board agenda item that will be for the
discussion on any fiscal year budgets and may include discussions of past fiscal years or future fiscal years.
• Discussion and consideration of the establishment of a working group comprised of members of the
Budget Sub Committee to review insurance and benefits.
Ms. Doherty asked Mr. Wilk to discuss the premise behind having a group is to look into providers to ensure
cost is in line and to ensure the employees have good benefits. Mr. Dumas asked that the Board articulate that
a new group appointment to do this review can work with the Town Manager's office to fully ensure all
aspects of coverage and requirements are considered. Ms. Doherty stated that it would not just be Budget
Subcommittee members that would be involved. She said it should be all the stakeholders. Mr. Wilk
mentioned Human Resources should be involved. Ms. Doherty stated that she is just looking for a vote to
establish the group, and that the makeup of the group would be determined by the Budget Subcommittee.
Mr. Trowbridge asked who from the Town would be involved. Mr. Dumas said is should be himself and the
Human Resources Director. Ms. Doherty noted that the School Department and the Financial Committee
wanted to be involved. Ms. Bren asked if the Board should consider allowing others to participate who may
have expertise, such as contracts review, but are not part of the Budget Subcommittee. Ms. Doherty stated
that it is not just the working group members that would be involved and that Budget Sub would define the
members. Mr. Wilk stated that he feels that the Budget Subcommittee would be flexible and amenable to
whoever the Select Board decided to appoint. Mr. Trowbridge suggested on School Committee, one Finance
Committee, and one Select Board, the Human Resources Director and the Town Manager's Office
representatives and the School administration. Ms. Doherty called for a motion to establish a working group
with no more than seven members.
Motion: To establish a working group for a charge of one year with the scope of investigating insurances and
reporting back to the Select Board. Vote 5:0 (Trowbridge/Wilk)
11. Discussion and updates on Workshop
Ms. Bren stated that she has agreed to analyze the data, but has not yet begun the work. She updated the
group that her intention is to compile the list and priority of the review of the policies based on risk. It will be a
whole lifecycle of the policy review. The goal is for it to be automated. Ms. Doherty stated that she was
Select Board Meeting Minutes
August 7, 2024
pleased to see the shape of the policies as the Board begins this process. She noted that there is some work to
be done on MIS policies. Ms. Doherty added that the Board also reviewed the start of an annual calendar, and
Mr. Roche will be giving an update on Board & Committees soon.
12. Discussion on FY2025 Goals Process
Mr. Dumas stated that he had submitted goal projects a couple of meetings ago and he will be allocated some
time to prepare for the next update in September. He encouraged the members to give him some feedback
individually in advance of this presentation. Ms. Doherty stated that she would like to see policy review to
move up to a top priority.
13. Consideration of participation in Mansfield 101 at the Mansfield Public Library
Mr. Dumas informed the group that all new residents receive an invitation to this event where all departments
are represented. Ms. Doherty asked if the members of the Board were all in and everyone agreed.
14. Select Board Member Committee and Liaison Updates
Ms. Bren stated that she has no updates. Mr. Trowbridge stated that MFN met last night and the budget is in
place. He stated that their Audit costs have gone up dramatically. He said that tomorrow the Bristol County
Advisory will be meeting to vote on the budget, Mr. Wilk asked Mr. Violette to bring the 5-year outlook to
future Select Board meetings. Mr. Doherty stated that it is a great tool. Mr. Roche informed that the Planning
Board will be doing a public forum on the Parkway on September 25th. He also said that SPREDD is seeking
input on regional pedestrian planning survey are due on Monday. Ms. Doherty updated that the COA is very
busy this summer and then she noted the importance of socialization. She added that she has been watching
the Library activities and noted how wonderful their programs are. She commented that she had also visited
the Parks & Recreation meeting as a citizen. Ms. Doherty then asked for the 250th Committee and the Open
Space to come in and give an update to the Select Board.
15. Public Comments
There were no comments from the public.
16. Review and Approve Consent Agenda
All items on the Consent Agenda may be adopted with a single motion. Any member of the Select Board
may request that an item be withdrawn from the Consent Agenda for separate consideration in which case
that item will be voted on separately from the remainder of the Consent Agenda. All licenses and events
have been routed through Town Hall Departments and any conditions have been noted below.
A. Vote to Approve Meeting Minutes:
• July 10, 2024
B. Vote to Approve Warrants:
• Town Vendor Warrant No. 24055T in the amount of $623,882.13
• Electric Vendor Warrant No. 24055E in the amount of $82,238.65
• School Vendor Warrant No. 240555 in the amount of $168,811.97
• Town Vendor Warrant No. 25003T in the amount of $168,782.70
• Town Vendor Warrant No. 25004T in the amount of $1,882,614.82
• Electric Vendor Warrant No. 25004E in the amount of $53,165.59
• School Vendor Warrant No. 25004S in the amount of $289,202.40
• Town Vendor Warrant No. 25005T in the amount of $1,021,974.09
• Electric Vendor Warrant No. 25005E in the amount of $239,392.71
• Town Vendor Warrant No. 25006T in the amount of $432,889.98
• Electric Vendor Warrant No. 25006E in the amount of $1,735,379.14
• School Vendor Warrant No. 25006S in the amount of $2,015,279.40
C. Consideration of Permits and Licenses:
• Consideration of Special Events Application for Troop 51 for Tree Lot
Select Board Meeting Minutes
August 7, 2024
D. Proclamations:
Motion: To approve the consent agenda. Vote 5:0 (Walter/Trowbridge)
17. Consideration and Approval of Town Payroll Warrants:
• Town Payroll/Town Medicaid Payroll 24053PT in the amount of $1,108,042.77
Motion: To approve Town Payroll/Town Medicaid Payroll 24053PT in the amount of $1,108,042.77. Vote: 5:0
(Wilk/Trowbridge)
• Town Deductions Vendor Payroll 25001TV in the amount of $335,090.04
Motion: To approve Town Deductions Vendor Payroll 25001TV in the amount of $335,090.04. Vote: 5:0
(Wilk/Trowbridge)
• School Payroll/School Medicaid Payroll 24053PS in the amount of $1,603,241.94
Motion: To approve School Payroll/School Medicaid Payroll 24053PS in the amount of $1,603,241.94.
Vote: 3:0:2 Trowbridge and Doherty Abstain (Wilk/Trowbridge)
• School Deductions Vendor Payroll 25001SV in the amount of $445,550.49
Motion: To approve Town Deductions Vendor Payroll 25001TV in the amount of $335,090.04. Vote: 5:0
(Wilk/Trowbridge)
• Town Payroll/Town Medicaid Payroll 25003PT in the amount of $1,101,451.91
Motion: To approve Town Payroll/Town Medicaid Payroll 25003PT in the amount of $1,101,451.91. Vote: 5:0
(Wilk/Trowbridge)
• Town Deductions Vendor Payroll 25003TV in the amount of $693,121.61
Motion: To approve Town Deductions Vendor Payroll 25003TV in the amount of $693,121.61. Vote: 5:0
(Wilk/Trowbridge)
• School Payroll/School Medicaid Payroll 25003PS in the amount of $1,623,836.13
Motion: To approve School Payroll/School Medicaid Payroll 25003PS in the amount of $1,623,836.13
Vote: 3:0:2 Doherty and Trowbridge Abstain (Wilk/Trowbridge)
• School Deductions Vendor Payroll 25003SV in the amount of $91,836.03
Motion: To approve School Deductions Vendor Payroll 25003SV in the amount of $91,836.03. Vote: 5:0
(Wilk/Trowbridge)
• Town Payroll/Town Medicaid Payroll 24056U in the amount of $409,862.41
Motion: To approve Town Payroll/Town Medicaid Payroll 24056U in the amount of $409,862.41. Vote: 5:0
(Wilk/Trowbridge)
• Town Deductions Vendor Payroll 25004TV in the amount of $144,453.14
Motion: To approve Town Deductions Vendor Payroll 25004TV in the amount of $144,453.14. Vote: 5:0
(Wilk/Trowbridge)
• Town Payroll/Town Medicaid Payroll 25005PT in the amount of $1,278,267.87
Motion: To approve Town Payroll/Town Medicaid Payroll 25005PT in the amount of $ 1,278,267.87. Vote: 5:0
(Wilk/Trowbridge)
• Town Deductions Vendor Payroll 25005TSV in the amount of $834,799.06
Motion: To approve Town Deductions Vendor Payroll 25005TSV in the amount of $ 834,799.06. Vote: 5:0
(Wilk/Trowbridge)
• School Payroll/School Medicaid Payroll 25005PS in the amount of $1,645,675.50
Motion: To approve School Payroll/School Medicaid Payroll 25005PS in the amount of $ 1,645,675.50.
Vote: 3:0:2 Trowbridge and Doherty Abstain. (Wilk/Trowbridge)
18. Correspondence
• Notices from Verizon
• Letter from Robert Barry
Mr. Wilk stated that there was a notice from Verizon and a letter from Robert Barry.
Select Board Meeting Minutes
August 7, 2024
19. Select Board Member's Comments and Questions
Mr. Doherty told the Board that she has received a resignation from Mr. Bob Barry of the Municipal Building
Committee. Mr. Trowbridge stated that Mr. Barry should be recognized in -person. Ms. Bren said it was very
heartwarming to read his letter and expressed her gratitude for his service. Ms. Doherty stated that Mr. Barry
was a great partner on the MBC but that he has a lot of experience that he has lent to the Committee and he
has been a mentor. She added that the Board would like to invite him in to be recognized.
Mr. Bren stated that she would like to recommend that one of those crossing signs or refreshed painting get
placed near Memorial Park where walkers cross Hope Street at Church Street, and another on North Main
Street there should be some additional signage stating the 20-m.p.h. speed limit. Mr. Dumas said that he will
look into how DPW might be able to accomplish this. Mr. Roche stated that he thinks the design of streets is a
good way of looking at public safety.
20. Any items not anticipated by the Chair 48 hours prior to this meeting
There were no items.
21. Adjourn
Motion: To adjourn the August 8, 2024 Select Board Meeting at 8:12 PM. Vote: 5:0 (Wilk/Roche)
Signature
Minutes prepared by Nancy Griffin
Date
Documents used in meeting:
1. Application for Catman Cafe Transfer of All Alcohol License
2. State Primary Warrant
3. Job Description for Meal Site Aide
4. Job Description for Home Delivered Meals Substitute
5. Job Description for Auxiliary Officer
6. July 10, 2024 Select Board Meeting Minutes
7. Special Events Application for Troop 51 for Tree Lot
8. Notices from Verizon
9. Letter from Robert Barry
Select Board Meeting Minutes
August 7, 2024