HomeMy WebLinkAboutBOS MINUTES 4-03-13 Board of Selectmen Minutes
April 3,2013
Present: Olivier Kozlowski, Chairman; George Dentino, Vice Chairrafl i r-fe}e
s r t• Doug ti l.,Annino, William Ross, Town Manager
Absent: Kevin Moran, Clerk
:I,',
'C: : k:ri a
ti�ra�7o�=�
Chairman Kozlowski called the meeting to order and stated that the meetilig.i'S'broadcasting live on
Mansfield Cable A_ccess and this broadcast beay available at varrious times I for v iewing.
woof;orolrbil ' l � e
Chief Neal Boldrighini introduced l Mr. Michael McLaughlin, a life-long resident
4
g g of Mansfield as
the newest addition to the Mansfield Fire Department. The Chief gave a brief biography of Mr.
McLaughlin and his family's years of service to the Town for over three generations. The Town
Clerk, Marianne Staples swore in Mr. McLaughlin as a member of the Mansfield Fire Department
and the Chief then asked that Mr. McLaughlin's father come forward to pin him with his badge.
Chairman Kozlowski congratulated Mr. McLaughlin and commended his family long tradition of
service and wished him well. Mr. Aptowitz noted that Mr. McLaughlin is in good company and is
joining a great department with solid backing and welcomed. Mr. Annino thanked Mr.
McLaughlin for his hard work and commended Mr. McLaughlin for continuing his family's years
of service to the Town. Mr. Dentino wished Mr. McLaughlin well and noted the tremendous
service of his family to the community. Mr. Dentino congratulated him and maintained that the
Town has the best trained
force around.
I '') @IC.' 011107`r kliirl I.; 041
Mr. Howard Fiske, Chairman of the Mansfield Municipal Airport, thanked the Board for inviting
them this evening. He noted that the airport is losing two members with a combined 52 years of
service. Mr. Fiske thanked Mr. Phil Finer and Mr. Robert Andrews for their years of service to the
Mansfield Municipal Airport and presented both gentlemen with plaques commending their
service. Mr. Aptowitz read the proclamations for Mr. Finer and Mr. Andrews into the record and
presented Mr. Finer and Mr. Andrews the proclamations on behalf of the Board.
res
._.. ii . i i i)ii z° I-aft, (iafri \'rt' ...r 17 4 ii■fil Witiir\MRTIqici
Chairman Kozlowski noted that this was a program in the news a while back in New Jersey and
that he had mentioned it to John McKenna, a Mansfield resident who is in the credit card
processing business. Mr. McKenna felt this is a situation where all parties could really benefit. He
noted the program, reated by the company Fincredit, Inc. located in Marlboro, New Jersey has
created a rewards program that ties into property taxes. Mr. McKenna stated that residents could
reduce their property tax bills simply by supporting local businesses. Mr. McKenna introduced
Carmine de Falco, Managing Director, Fincredit,Inc.
Mr. de Falco thanked the Chairman for his invitation to appear before the Board. Mr. de Falco
summarized that the infrastructure of Fincredit, Inc.'s property tax rewards program was started
three years ago and its first launch was six months ago in Marlboro, New Jersey and has an
additional six towns issuing resolutions for the program within New Jersey. The company
anticipated having 10-15 programs up and running by the end of the year.
Board Of Selectmen's Meeting April 3,2013
Page 1 of 10
Mr. de Falco stated that the program is very simple. The Town issues"swipe/rewards cards"to all
homeowners in Town. When residents shop within the Town, at a local participating merchant,
they pay for their goods and services then give the rewards card to the merchant to be swiped
online or on a dedicated machine. This transaction generates a tax credit. At the end of the week
Fincredit, Inc. goes into the merchant's account, debits the account and deposits the credit into a
Town account (designated by the Town). At the end of the year (about 8 weeks before the Town
issues a new tax bill) Fincredit, Inc. transfers the new tax record to the Town's software billing
company and the funds. Mr. de Falco noted everything is apportioned by block and lot that way
there is no mistakes as everything is done electronically. When the tax bill is mailed the resident
will see what they have earned subtracted from their property tax amount. Mr. de Falco stated this
is good for the Town because Towns have been advocating for ShopLocal for many years and this
is a way for residents to get something back and keep business within the Town. Mr. de Falco
stated merchants should participate because they will no longer spend any monies on advertising,
ie coupons or newspapers, as the residents will have their swipe cards on them and the discount is
predetermined. Finally, Mr. de Falco stated that in the past 6 months in the Town of Marlboro,
New Jersey, there were sales on the card of$300,000 and the community saved approximately
$15,000-$17,000 in property taxes.
Mr. Aptowitz clarified that the service fee from the company is 25%, which is a management fee.
Mr. Aptowitz then asked what the tax implication is to the user to which Mr. de Falco noted that in
2001 the IRS sent a memo stating a tax rebate is not a taxable event and he would forward that
memo to the Board. Mr. Aptowitz also asked if there was any Town in Massachusetts currently
signed on to which Mr. de Falco stated no but there have been inquiries here and in New York. Mr.
Aptowitz also inquired if Mr. de Falco has gone to the Massachusetts Department of Revenue. Mr.
de Falco stated he has done two years of due diligence with New Jersey but was pretty sure he
would not have a problem.
Mr. Annino clarified that there was no cost to the residents to which Mr. de Falco agreed that there
was no cost. Mr. Annino followed up and asked about the cost to the Town. Mr. DeFalco stated it
is $1 per card for each resident/household and $2 per window cling for the merchants. Mr. de
Falco stated that in other Towns, currently using the program,they are using a sponsor for the cost
of the cards, where the sponsor can place a logo on the card. Mr. Annino asked about the cost to
the merchant and Mr. de Falco stated is $10 per month payable to a processing agency and also if
they are using a dedicated machine there is a one-time fee of$160.
Mr.Dentino asked how Fincredit,Inc. came up with the 25%fee? Mr. de Falco reported that when
a merchant signs on they determine what amount goes back to the resident on a questionnaire. Mr.
de Falco noted the only real obligation to the Town is getting the word out to the residents about
the program and to ShopLocal. Mr. Dentino noted he would want any interest from the account to
come back to the Town and Mr. de Falco agreed and noted that is the arrangement with Marlboro,
New Jersey. Mr. Dentino asked what the process is for the Town? Mr. de Falco stated that most
Towns issue a resolution authorizing the economic development committee to work with
Fincredit, Inc. to establish the program. Mr. Dentino noted this is a relatively new program that
has nothing to compare other than New Jersey. Mr. de Falco stated the resolutions are signed but
not yet running in the other Towns. Mr. Dentino asked Mr. Ross what his thoughts were.
Mr. Ross stated there are several things to look at which are seeing if local businesses are
interested, query the Massachusetts Department of Revenue to inquire as to how they feel about
this and are taxes handled differently in New Jersey as Mansfield bills four times a year. Mr. de
Board Of Selectmen's Meeting April 3,2013
Page 2 of 10
Falco noted taxes are also paid four times a year in New Jersey. Mr. Ross noted that Fincredit,Inc.
would also need the tax identification number for each property. Mr. de Falco stated that
Fincredit,Inc. works with the Town's software company to ensure that all numbers are transferred
properly. Mr. Ross also asked how would a property sale is handled in the middle of the year? Mr.
de Falco noted if the property owner stays within the Town there is only an update of the new
block and lot and the money follows. If the property owner moves outside of Mansfield, Fincredit,
Inc. asks the owner to notify the closing attorney. Mr. Dentino asked if there was a contractual
agreement and Mr. de Falco answered yes but there was no "lock-in" to the merchant or to the
Town.
Mr. Aptowitz stated the merchant is the most important part to this program and it is the Board's
obligation to sit down and find out if they would be interested. Also, Mr. Aptowitz noted from a
book keeping standpoint there would be a lot of postings with various percentages and could cause
a lot of problems. Mr. de Falco stated that any discrepancies would be handled through the
processing center and through Fincredit, Inc., however Mr. Aptowitz stated that the residents
would come to Town Hall to the Treasurer's office with problems or questions.
Chairman Kozlowski suggested that Mr. de Falco contact the Tri-Town Chamber of Commerce to
see if there would be any interest there to open up the shopping potential. The Chairman didn't see
why this wouldn't work but is there the capability for a Mansfield resident to shop at Patriot's
Place and receive the benefit? Mr. de Falco noted that there is and he is seeing Towns in New
Jersey wanting to team up. The Chairman asked about residents who do not own a property and
Mr. de Falco stated there is a cash rebate program. The Chairman asked if it would be possible to
sign up through the Electric Department rather than property ownership and Mr. de Falco said
Fincredit, Inc. is not equipped at this time but he would be willing to work with the Town. The
Chairman noted there will be a conference call with the Tri-Town Chamber of Commerce and Mr.
Ross noted that when information is received back from the Department of Revenue the Town will
make that available.
Mr. Harold Henry presented and noted that this is the festival's seventh year. Mr. Henry noted
that as the festival's attendance continues to grow they continue to add new classes for those who
would like to learn more of the cultural. In years past the New England Folk Festival has asked that
the Town waive the fee as they are a non-profit group but due to their success over the years they
wanted to show their appreciation for all the Town has done to assist and accommodate the festival
and will not ask to waive the fee. Mr. Dentino couldn't say enough about the festivities and
cordialness of all the people involved. He makes sure he attends every year. Mr. Annino noted
that it is a great family and cultural event and thanked Mr. Henry for continuing to have the festival
in Mansfield. Mr. Henry noted some of the activities that will be a part of this year's festival. It
was Mr. Annino's opinion that the fee should be waived and stated he would like the Board to
consider that. Mr. Aptowitz remembered Mr. Henry's first year presenting his plans for the
festival and is happy for their success and stated how well attended the festival is, particularly on
Sunday. Mr. Henry stated he hoped to see the Board this year and would be more than happy to
provide a tour.
Motion: To grant the license for the 2013 New England Folk Festival (Aptowitz/Dentino)
PASSES 4:0
Motion: To waive the fee for the New England Folk Festival (Annino/Dentino) PASSES 4:0
Board Of Selectmen's Meeting April 3,2013
Page 3 of 10
Mr. Ross noted that the Town will return the $100 check for the Entertainment License via mail to
Mr. Henry.
Present are Walter Wilk, Steve Schoonveld,Michael O'Brien,James Bazinet, Yogen Chemburkar,
Scott Feely and Elizabeth Christo. Mr. Wilk thanked the Board for their time. The Committee felt
it was important to meet with the Board in order to keep them up to date on the process of the
Committee and what still needed to be done. Mr. Wilk reported that instead of having the Town
and the School Department each with a controlling document, the Committee, Town and School
Department has agreed to have John Stanbrook keep the controlling document, which means the
Committee worked off of one revenue and expense scenario and any changes made fed into the
singular document. This gave the Committee one common base line.
Mr. Wilk stated that since the Committee knew they were coming into the process with a deficit,
they asked all departments, Town and School, to present. Mr. Wilk stated that there is a $1.5
million free cash plug in the budget,which was there last year,meaning the budget never balanced
and there was a negative $1.5 million. The money was taken from free cash to "plug". The
Committee knew they could not tier down from that this year or lower that in one shot without
layoffs across the Town so the Committee asked the Town Manager and School Department to
give a budget that was flat full time equivalent. The Committee also asked that the Town and
School pull out anything that fell under Capital Improvements and that was sent to Capital
Improvements Committee so that they didn't have operating and capital mixed together.
Currently, Mr. Wilk reported that with the $1.5 million plug the budget is off about $871,000 and
noted that the Finance Committee, School Committee and Town Manager continue to work to
level that number. When the budget process began in the fall, the Committee put together three
scenarios of negative 2% growth, flat growth and a positive 2% growth. As time went on the
Committee moved from negative 2%to flat and then from flat to positive 2% and are comfortable
with that as they wait for the State aid.
Mr. Wilk reported that one of the issues is the divergence of revenue and expense where the
Town's expenses are growing faster than the revenue, which is called negative leverage. The
Committee found that 80% — 85% of the budget is made up of salaries and a 2% pay increase
results in a 5%to 5.5%budget increase. Mr. Wilk added the Committee found that the continued
state unfunded mandates are hitting the schools hard. The Committee reported that they have yet to
see that on the Town side.
Mr. Wilk noted that the Committee is leaning towards supporting the Cabot Park Warrant Article
but are just unsure whether that will drive additional revenue however if the Town doesn't do
something there will be lost revenue because the Town won't be as competitive and the loss of
potential growth. They agree if the Town does nothing there will be a loss and that if the Town can
bring the zoning up to date it will make the Town more valuable and wanting to move in.
Chairman Kozlowski had hoped that there would be input from the businesses at the industrial
park but unfortunately it didn't happen in time. Mr. Ross noted that the input would be available
prior to Town Meeting. Mr. Schoonveld noted that currently there is about $6.6 million in tax
revenue generated by the industrial park so if the Town can grow that by 10% it would see an
additional $600,000 or vice versa. Mr. Wilk noted that both Mr. Ross and Ms. Hodges have been
"in the boat together" and has been a very cohesive experience.
Board Of Selectmen's Meeting April 3,2013
Page 4 of 10
The Chairman is pleased to have the Committee there and doesn't want to see residents surprised a
week before Town Meeting. Also, the Chairman would like to see on a weekly basis a press
release issued to show what the number is that the residents can understand. Mr. Wilk noted that
on the Town Website there is a tab called Town Meeting where all of the documents have been
loaded.
Mr. Aptowitz commended the Committee especially considering that the majority of the members
have been here less than a year and this is exactly what he had envisioned. His general question is
at some point free cash will be getting smaller and smaller and he doesn't want the Town hiring
with a deficit. Mr. Wilk noted that the plug will be graduated and leveled down (ie this year
$1,500,000,next year$1,000,000 and so on)and the Committee is trying to balance with a flat Full
Time Equivalent (FTE). Mr. Wilk stated the Committee questions that if the budget is balanced
and the Town receives extra dollars from the State than anticipated does the Town use some of the
money to fill unfunded mandates for the School or fill a Finance position. He also noted that both
Mr. Ross and Ms. Hodges are aware of the possibility and are working together. Mr. Wilk stated
that the Committee is standing strong on NOT increasing the plug.
Mr. Annino commented that he is so happy to have the members aboard and so committed to the
process. Mr. Dentino stated he did watch the meeting and came away feeling very positive and
agreed with the Committee's stance across the board. He is particularly pleased with having a
singular budget, he noted he does see pitfalls but has confidence in the Committee.
Mr. Schoonveld presented a draft version of the Town's five year plan where three scenarios
employed: conservative, moderate and aggressive. The Committee presented the aggressive
version to the Board which presumed General Fund revenues and expenditures grow as follows:
revenues at 2.9% with expenditures at 3.9% for FY 14. Mr. Schoonveld reported that projected
growth for years FY 16 is 2.4% for revenues and 3.0% for expenditures and for FY 18 projected
growth for both revenues and expenditures is 3.0%and noted that this is an aggressive assumption.
Aggressive meaning the spread isn't as wide as might be realized and there are ways of getting
there revenue wise with the enhanced revenues opportunities with Industrial Park and other
commercial properties and for expenditures as well in order to keep it at 3%rather than the 5%the
Town would normally see. Mr. Schoonveld liked Mr. Aptowitz's analogy that there is only so
many ways to split the pie. He stated that in Free Cash there is only three ways to split: spend on
next year's budget, spend it on CIP(Capital Improvements)or spend it on reserves. The point is to
maintain the plug at that level so painful choices do not have to be made in the future where the
Town cannot fund CIP or reserves. Mr. Schoonveld stated that the purpose of this exercise, which
is Mr. Stanbrook and Mr. Vozella's latest projections, is to show expectations of growth. Mr.
Schoonveld pointed out the implications of the use/dependency on Free Cash. In the FY 14 budget
the Town has a $1.5 million Free Cash assumed, the Surplus/(Deficit) is now at $871,000 and
depending on what happens within the next week, more/less of Free Cash may be required. Mr.
Wilk stated that the Committee has asked both Mr. Ross and Ms. Hodges to build off of this 5 year
budget plan as to future needs (ie additional FTEs). Mr. Ross noted that this exercise gives the
Town Management team information needed to manage the budget properly and stay within the
criteria established. Mr. Schoonveld explained that projections are tools to make conscious
decisions that have long term impacts.
Mr. Ross stated that the Town received a letter regarding the Chapter 90 Bond Bill that has been
introduced into the legislature. In speaking with the State Rep and Senator, who believe the bill
will pass, the letter reported the Town would receive $1,167,000, which is approximately a 50%
Board Of Selectmen's Meeting April 3,2013
Page 5 of 10
increase. The bill is dedicated to road and bridge maintenance. Mr. Ross stated that if the amount
is added to the Capital Plan it gives the Town$1,900,000 towards street improvements. Mr. Ross
visited Mark Cook and Lee Azinheira and it is believed they have a program in place to utilize the
funds. Mr. Ross felt the funds would have a positive impact on the Town's roads. Mr. Ross
explained that the Town currently analyzes the roads using computer software and each Spring
rate the Town's roads and conditions.
Mr. Ross also announced to the Board and the Finance Committee that last week Standard&Poors
visited the Town for a bond rating review. Mr. Ross read from the letter,which is made part of the
record, and stated that the Town's rating has improved to AA-Stable. The Town's last rating five
years ago was A-Negative Outlook. Mr. Ross commended John Stanbrook, Roxanne Donovan
and Nancy Hinote for all their hard work and thanked Mr. Aptowitz for sitting in on the meetings.
Mr. Aptowitz noted how prepared the Town and that the rating is two steps above the previous
rating. Mr. Wilk asked that the letter be posted on the Town's website and also that copies be
supplied to the Finance Committee. Mr. Ross noted that when the original letter is received he will
do that.
`.NL b !fa' !Nl4�j:,r !l4 arS,I.� .t !M1' `1i°:a' "'L' 'r; e o560A
4-1:7CU:411lllif
Mr. Ross noted that it appears that the creation of the Beautification Committee was not properly
executed. The Town would like to assure the Committee is properly created through action of the
Board of Selectmen and that the members are properly appointed and in place. Currently none of
the members of the Committee have current terms and few members never appointed. The Town
is requesting a two-fold action: to create the committee, establish terms and to fill the terms. Mr.
Ross noted that the Committee has been operating within the by-laws and adhering to open
meeting requirements and keeping accurate minutes. The reasoning is to formally create the group
due to the fact there is a Gift Fund involved and the Town wants to ensure proper utilization of the
fund for the Committee. Mr. Ross also noted that Neil Rhein and the Committee does a fantastic
job for the Town. Mr. Aptowitz inquired as to the language to which Mr. Ross replied the
Committee was originally slated for 7-9 members,with 3 year terms but that those terms should be
staggered so that the entire Committee isn't expiring all at once. The Chairman wanted to be sure
that the members were aware that the order for expiration is random to which Mr. Rhein assured
the Board it was not a problem. Mr. Ross suggested that the terms begin January 1St which would
be easier to track going forward.
Motion: To formally establish the Keep Mansfield Beautiful Committee (Aptowitz/Annino)
PASSES 4:0
Motion: To appoint Neill Rhein to the Keep Mansfield Beautiful Committee for a 3 year term,
effective January 1, 2013 (Aptowitz/Annino) PASSES 4:0
Motion: To appoint Nancy Wall to the Keep Mansfield Beautiful Committee for a 3 year term,
effective January 1, 2013 (Aptowitz/Annino) PASSES 4:0
Mr. Aptowitz asked Mr. Rhein if he had any input as to the order. Mr. Rhein stated that 5-6 of the
8 applications were original members, which includes David Kobasa, Patricia Holiver, Patricia
Colbert and Mike McCarthy.
Motion: To appoint David Kobasa to the Keep Mansfield Beautiful Committee for a 3 year term,
effective January 1, 2013 (Aptowitz/Annino) PASSES 4:0
Motion: To appoint Michael McCarthy to the Keep Mansfield Beautiful Committee for a 2 year
term, effective January 1, 2013 (Aptowitz/Annino) PASSES 4:0
Motion: To appoint Patricia Colbert to the Keep Mansfield Beautiful Committee for a 2 year
term, effective January 1, 2013 (Aptowitz/Annino) PASSES 4:0
Board Of Selectmen's Meeting April 3,2013
Page 6 of 10
Motion: To appoint Patricia Holiver to the Keep Mansfield Beautiful Committee for a 2 year
term, effective January 1, 2013 (Aptowitz/Annino)PASSES 4:0
Motion: To appoint Jason Dodd to the Keep Mansfield Beautiful Committee for a 1 year term,
effective January 1, 2013 (Aptowitz/Annino)PASSES 4:0
Motion: To appoint Brian Leveque to the Keep Mansfield Beautiful Committee for a 1 year term,
effective January 1, 2013 (Aptowitz/Annino) PASSES 4:0
Chairman Kozlowski noted that there is a remaining opening for a one year term which will be
posted on the Town Website and asked if a motion was needed to add the Committee to the
application form. Mr. Aptowitz stated that a motion was not needed.
Mr. Rhein informed the Board that The Great American Cleanup of Mansfield is April 27th from
9:00am — 11:OOam. Anyone interested can sign up through the Committee's website at
www.keepmansfieldbeautiful.com. Currently there are about 400 volunteers pledge to help. Also,
the Committee received a donation from the Troy Build Corporation for a free backpack gas
powered leaf blower and free gas powered leaf blower. The Committee donated the items to Mark
Cook at the Hi hwa Division. Mr.Ross thanked Mr.Rhein and the Committee for their donation.
None
A. Review/Approval of Minutes of Meetings
• Board of Selectmen Minutes for March 20, 2013
Motion: To approve the Board of Selectmen Minutes for March 20, 2013
(Annino/Aptowitz) PASSES 4:0
B. Approval of Warrants
Town Vendor Warrant No. 13040T $282,341.01
Motion: To approve Town Vendor Warrant 13040T $282,341.01
(Annino/Aptowitz) PASSES 4:0
Electric Department Vendor Warrant No. 13040E $34,573.48
Motion: To approve Electric Department Warrant No. 13040E $34,573.48
(Annino/Aptowitz) PASSES 4:0
School Department Vendor Warrant No. 13040S $354,377.30
Motion: To approve School Department Vendor Warrant No. 13040S $354,377.30
(Annino/Aptowitz) PASSES 4:0
Town Payroll/Town Medicaid Payroll Warrant No. 13040PT $293,187.77
Motion: To approve Town Payroll/Town Medicaid Payroll Warrant No. 13040PT
$293,187.77 (Annino/Aptowitz)PASSES 3:1 Dentino NAY
Town Deductions - Vendor Payroll Warrant No. 13040TV $88,803.55
Motion: To approve Town Payroll Warrant No. 13040TV $88,803.55
(Annino/Aptowitz) PASSES 4:0
C. Licenses and Permits
• 2013 Water Installer's License for P. Beatty Excavation, Inc.
Motion: To approve Water Installer's License for P. Beatty Excavation, Inc.
(Dentino/Aptowitz) PASSES 4:0
• Hackney Drive Application for Mark Parisi
Motion: To approve Hackney Driver's License for Mark Parisi (Dentino/Annino)
PASSES 4:0
• Hackney Carriage Renewal Application for Veteran's Taxi d/b/a Mansfield Town Taxi
Board Of Selectmen's Meeting April 3,2013
Page 7 of 10
•
Motion: To approve Hackney Carriage Renewal License for Veteran's Town Taxi d/b/a
Mansfield Town Taxi for Vehicles 16, 32, 41 and 45 (Annino/Aptowitz)
Discussion: Mr. Aptowitz inquired if this is the large hackney company from Newton that
was transferred earlier in the year. Ms. Whalen noted that it was and Mr. Aptowitz
questioned if ANY of their drivers can enter Mansfield to pick people up. His concern is
ensuring CORI checks were conducted and how can the Town ensure this is done. Mr.
Ross noted that in order for a hackney driver to conduct business within Mansfield they
need to be licensed through the Town as well as their vehicle. Mr. Ross further noted that
if found in violation, the license to operate would be in jeopardy. The Chairman noted that
this applies to pick—ups only. PASSES 4:0
D. Banners for Review and Approval
• American Cancer Society Relay for Life
Motion: To approve the American Cancer Society Relay for Life Banner
(Annino/Aptowitz) PASSES 4:0
Mr.Annino would like to note that the American Cancer Society Relay for Life needs to do
better next year with their documentation of the banner and that the Board will not accept
the example provided this year for next year.
• Mansfield Education Foundation Secret Shop
Motion: To approve the Mansfield Education Foundation Secret Shop Banner
(Annino/Aptowitz) PASSES 4:0
E. Correspondence
• Mr. Ross reported earlier in the Finance Discussion concerning the Chapter 90 Bond Bill
letter.
• Mr. Aptowitz read a letter from Thomas French, Planning Board, regarding the removal of
the Fales Oil Site. Chairman Kozlowski noted that discussion of the site is not on the
Agenda for this evening's meeting and perhaps the Town should have this as a future
Agenda item. Mr. Aptowitz agreed with the Chairman. Mr. Annino was surprised that the
Town's insurance carrier has not asked about the property and asked that the Planning
Board be invited to discuss this issue. Mr. Aptowitz also asked that the Downtown
Business Association be invited.
Mr. Ross noted he met with Karl and Bill Clemmey regarding the parking lot fee issue and that Mr.
Aptowitz sat in on the meeting. Both parties mutually agreed to postpone putting the discussion
back in front of the Board until further and thorough investigation is completed. The Town is
looking at readjusting the fee per space from the current fee of$6 for renewals only. Mr. Ross felt
it was excessive and asked if the owners could submit their paperwork with the standard $50
renewal fee and hold in abeyance the per space fee so that the Town can at least renew the licenses.
The Chairman felt that the reason for the postponement was so that the Town could have a solid
number before the Town issues the license. Mr. Annino believed the Town should hold off on the
space fee and accept the license renewal fee of$50 and to see a viable, rational way to come up
with the charge per car/space. The remaining issues are the existence of Allen Street where the
Town believes it has not been accepted at Town Meeting as a street and the police detail is also an
issue. Mr. Aptowitz noted that the Town does not want to hold up the licensing process. Mr. Ross
would like to ask Ron Sellon his position regarding the police detail. Mr. Ross did note that it was
a very courteous discussion.
Mr. Ross reported that the amendment that the Board approved for the Zone II has been approved
by DEP and will now go to Town Meeting.
Board Of Selectmen's Meeting April 3,2013
Page 8 of 10
Mr. Ross looked at the cost for snow removal and it appeared to be less than estimated,
$220,000-$225,000. All paperwork has been completed to the State and Feds for reimbursement
but it is not believed to be received before June 30. Mr. Dentino inquired if that number included
overtime and Mr. Ross believed it was and that John Stanbrook was working on the number.
Mr. Ross and the school signed off on the Robinson School Window Project and will be submitted
to the State. Mr. Ross was able to view the windows and stated they were substantial.
One of things that has come out of the process is that we have the same priorities, for example both
are highly supportive of Finance Director and the need for Human Resource to work with both the
schools and Town on HR issues. Mr. Dentino inquired as to who is handling the Worker's Com,to
which Mr. Ross stated Deb Herbert in his office is handling.
Mr. Aptowitz stated the S&P rating earlier tonight was good news. In speaking about a Finance
Director, he believed it to be important and that it is what S&P is looking to see the Town improve
upon.
Mr. Aptowitz congratulated the new Police Chief Ron Sellon and noted it was a very nice
ceremony and looked forward to working with him.
Mr. Aptowitz noted that the staircase on side of building is crumbling at the top. Mr. Ross will
have Mike Ahern take a look at it.
Mr. Annino noted we are a$70 million company and there is a tremendous need to have one
person in charge of Finance and with over 900 employees there is a great need for HR.
Mr. Annino asked that a letter of thanks be sent to Covidien on behalf of the Board, thanking them
for their generous donation. Mr. Ross stated he will dictate a letter.
Mr. Dentino would like to see on a future Agenda a discussion of the budget concerning the
mandate on the School side regarding students that are suspended/expelled having to budget for
replacement education, ie: provide a tutor.
In regards to the discussion of the Finance and HR Directors,that Mr. Ross mentioned earlier, Mr.
Dentino inquired that if it doesn't amount to adding bodies will it amount to changing positions.
Mr. Ross noted that one position will receive additional money and if it happens the way it is
planned one position would move from the Treasurer's Office to the Finance Office (payroll
position), and one position that we are currently paying jointly with the schools would move in to
assist with the benefit work so all benefit work will go into that office. There will be no additional
bodies but Mr. Ross has proposed a$10,000 stipened over and above the current salary for the
person taking the Finance Director position.
Board Of Selectmen's Meeting April 3,2013
Page 9 of 10
Chairman Kozlowski felt the swearing-in ceremony was nice and congratulated the new chief Ron
Sellon.
The Chairman would like the Town to start the weekly Budget Press Releases.
@@ a r iN lL k41 II II oite9
None
Motion: To adjourn at 9:42pm(Kozlowski/Dentino) All in favor. PASSES 5:0
6i /
Signature of Clerk
Date of Approval
/Tracey Whalen
Board Of Selectmen's Meeting April 3,2013
Page 10 of 10