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HomeMy WebLinkAboutGREAT WOODS LICENSE REVIEW WORKSHOP MINUTES 2-20-1997N IC'i_t -C',S 0FFFICE Great Woods, Inc. Entertainment License Review Workshop o Minutes 97 AIR Co AN ID: 36 February 20,1997 s. NIS Members Present: Chairman Madan, Selectmen Colella, Mahana, Pasquale, Robin onHtJSETTS Guests Present: Chief Arthur M. O'Neill - Mansfield Police Department, Chief Edward A. Sliney, Jr.- Mansfield Fire Department, Mr. Bruce Montgomery, Genefal Manager, Great Woods, Inc. The workshop opened at 7:30 PM at Mansfield Town Hall. Chair Madan stated that the purpose of the workshop was to discuss and review the entertainment license for Great Woods, hrc. for the upcoming season. Mr. Bruce Montgomery was representing Great Woods, Inc. Chiefs O'Neill and Sliney represented the public safety officials of the Town of Mansfield. Chief Sliney stated that he had an opportunity prior to this workshop to discuss the installation of agate on the access road with Mf. Montgomery. Presently the road is blocked with a utility pole. Mr. Montgomery agreed that he will add a gate. Chairman Madan asked about the fates for the men and equipment as outlined on Schedule A - Schedule of Equipment Rates for the 1996 season. Both Chief Sliney and Chief O'Neill will review the schedule. Chief O'Neill stated that he needed to confirm his prices with the Greater Boston Police Cormcil (bid prices) to determine if there will be any changes in the Police Department schedule. There is no charge for bicycles at this time. There are 6/7 bikes used by the force. The Chiefs will report back to the Selectmen's office on February 27, 1997. There was discussion concerning that contracts are in negotiations and retroactive pay should be addressed at this time. Mr. Montgomery stated that he would like to do the same as all other business. Chief O'Neill has no issues with license as stated. The Police Station is scheduled to be under construction during the upcoming concert season. Selectman Pasquale asked Chief O'Neill what will happen with the police station renovation in regards to lock up. The Chief will explore opportunities with the State for lock -up facilities. Selectman Pasquale also asked about one time costs associated with temporary lock -up facilities. The Chief stated that there will bean increase in labor costs and they will be billed to Great Woods. Mr. Montgomery stated that he is agreeable to pay reasonable costs that are associated with the concerts. A clause which outlines any one time charges of increased costs associated with constriction needs to be addressed and clarified by Town Counsel. Mr. Montgomery will work with the Chief and the Board members to work together on the addition of "reasonable" costs. Great Woods Workshop 2 -20 -97 ���elgI ( Chief O'Neill reviewed Attachment No. I and stated that this is reasonable and acceptable. He commented that in years past he had the need to "scout -out" security measures that were used by other facilities when dealing with questionable acts. After a brief review of Article #9. Final Schedule of Events - (Great Woods, Inc. Entertainment License, Rules and Reeulations, Avril 10, 1996) Chairman Madan would like to clarify this in the license for the chief to attend other concerts. Chief O'Neill stated that he would notify the Selectmen of any such circumstances. Selectman Pasquale drafted wording to be reviewed by Town Counsel which addressed this issue. If the Board of Selectmen requests to preview an act it deems may present a reasonable possibility of a threat to public safety it may require the licensee to provide reasonable travel and expenses for a public safety representative to view the act. This wording should be added in Article #9 between paragraph's two and three. The Chief was comfortable with this wording and the final determination was with the Board of Selectmen. Selectman Mahana is concerned about violence in the parking lots. Tire facility holds 20,000 people with a wide cross section of society. Sometimes altercations occur. Selectman Mahana asked about a tractor trailer holding cell. The Police Chief stated that this type of holding vehicle only has one bathroom facility. The Chieffeels that a lack of toilet facilities would cause more problems and create an unsanitary environment. Selectman Mahana asked Chief Sliney to explain the difference between Fire Vehicle (Squad #1) and Pumper with a rate of $56.00 and Fire Vehicle (Squad #2) and Pumper with a rate of $111.00. The different rates apply to the value of vehicle as depreciated. Squad #2 is a newer vehicle and therefore has a higher cost associated. The Chief stated that both Fire Vehicles are pumpers and stated that the wording in Schedule A should be changed to read: Fire Vehicle (Squad #1) Fire Vehicle (Squad #2) Selectman Colella asked about the prices charged for public safety vehicles. His suggestion was to increase the prices to $65.00 per police and fire vehicle and adjust Squad 1 and Squad 2 -to $120.00 per vehicle. Mr. Colella just determined these numbers and did not use a formula. Chief Slnrey explained the formula that was used to determine the rate. Chief O'Neill stated that their rate was determined by the Greater Boston Police Council bid prices. Mr. Colella expressed his concern for the tax payers. Mr. Madan stated that he used a truck in another town and was charged $50.00 per hour. Mr. Montgomery stated that he has no problem paying reasonable costs for equipment. He stated that the use of the Fire Department equipment has been minimally used. The truck is available to leave the site if needed for emergency use. Great Woods Workshop 2 -20 -97 1) aola7 Selectman Mahana asked about the Minimum Security Requirements; as outlined in the license. He asked Mr•. Montgomery about the cost of the private ambulance with the two attendants. Mr. Montgomery has not prepared to give this figure at this time. Mr. Mahana asked if the private ambulance was staffed with paramedics. Selectman Robinson asked if the Great Woods, Inc. purchased a paddy wagon for the Town. Mr. Montgomery responded, yes in 1994. Did Great Woods purchase a motorcycle for the Town? Mr. Montgomery responded yes and explained that the items were purchased through an amendment in the contract stating that instead of paying the town a fee that the funds were used to purchase equipment of equal value. The paddy wagon was about $7,000 over the amount owed. Mr. Montgomery stated that Great Woods, Inc. would not be doing this any more. Selectman Robinson asked that if for some reason we had a working fire, what would happen with the piece of equipment at Great Woods. Normally, the equipment would stay at Great Woods, however, ifneeded the equipment would leave. The Town has not been left vulnerable. The Town's needs have been addressed. There may be some reallocation of manpower and equipment to meet the needs. Selectman Robinson asked about the undeveloped land owned by Great Wood, Inc. and wondered if there was enough room at Great Woods to do a heliport pad for a medivac. Chief Sliney responded that this is presently a designated site and there is enough room to stop traffic on the access road. The site needs to be 60' x 60'. Mr. Montgomery stated that construction of a heliport can be addressed in the fitture. Selectman Robinson would like a dedicated spot so that there is no interruption in traffic or concert operations. Chairman Madan spoke in regards to drunk driving and wondered about how many offenders stated that they had their last drink at Great Woods. The court will ask where you had your last drink. They may not have been served by Great Woods, Inc. but bought their own with them Chief O'Neill stated that Great Woods policy for serving alcohol is very strict. The Chief stated that he cannot stop drinking but the Police Department and security forces are trying their best. Chapman Madan is concerned with the parties prior to the concert. The Chief stated that this is when the bike patrol is active. Chairman Madan expressed concern regarding safety in the parking lot and sexual activity. Chapman Madan would like to do what is best for public safety. The Chief stated that he can review with the security contractor and review their approach. Selectman Mahana asked how many people were arrested at Great Woods events. Lt. Figueredo stated that there were approximately arrests 880 per year for the Town. Arrests at events average 3 to 4 a night. Mr. Mahana stated that Paragraphs 3 and 13 in the Great Woods, Inc. Entertainment License Rules and Regulations - April 1996 had been reviewed. Great Woods Workshop 2 -20 -97 a vjg1 Mr. Montgomery stated that Items numbers 1 and 5. Attachment No. 1 in the License had been addressed. The number of portable facilities increased. (to alleviate trespass to neighbors property) No problems of trespass were reported last year. Reports show that there was only a problem with the number of sanitary facilities at the Jimmy Buffet concert. Mr. Montgomery stated that customers had written expressing their opinion about the number of sanitary facilities after that concert. Great Woods, Inc. will take care of their customers. They will be responsive to their customers as well as insuring that trespassing doesn't occur. Mr. Montgomery stated that Great Woods, Inc. has all approved site plan that meets all codes. A permanent facility would invite security problems and take away from parking. Item #6 in Attachment No 1. -1VIr. Montgomery stated that installation of permanent facilities report was submitted and a response has not been submitted to Great Woods. Selectman Colella stated that he would like to have two permanent sanitary facilities. Mr. Montgomery stated that he feels that Great Woods, Inc. has frdfilled all obligations to date. Item #7 in Attachment No 1. Concerns were expressed with the sound level. This is for every show and weather - this is constantly monitored. Mr. Montgomery stated that he is in contact with the public and this is continually monitored. The maximum sound level is 95db. This level was set by the Department of Environmental Protection. The Selectmen asked about lowering this level. Mr. Montgomery stated that most nights its not 95db, however, normal conversation runs at 60 - 70db. The Chair opened the meeting to comments from the Public. Mr. George Wojtkiewicz, Gladiola Terrace made the following points: 1. Original information: read from original brochure describing types of shows and concerts. Mr. Mahana made continents on honv things change. 2. Fees for cruisers: asked about hiring for his own neighborhood would it cost $350 per night. Personnel would be additional. He feels that this is an amazing bargain. Asks if we should review this rate. 3. Response of Emergency Personnel: Stated that on occasions when these vehicles are tied up at Great Woods he has called the Police Station and heard the comment about they were busy at Great Woods. Chief O'Neill stated that this shouldn't impact the present squad on duties. The Chief also stated that this is not supposed to happen and asked that if this comment is made please report this immediately to the Chief or the Lieutenant on duty. 4. Use of other security forces: Wonders why we only have Mansfield's personnel tied up in this. Chief O'Neill stated that this is not a State Police facility. This is usually staffed by off duty officers. Other towns are called if there are not sufficient tivatipmver from Mat is/le Id. Great Woods, Inc. also pays for additional officers in the station as needed This is supplemental income for Mansfield Police Department. This is also a veuy good training ground for officers, for example officers are exposed to drugs, large numbers of all types of people and can only help you with lacy enforcement within the Tmvn. Great Woods Workshop 2 -20 -97 dab (97 5. Rubbish: Great Woods regularly patrols the community for trash. There is a ( tremendous amounts of trash on the State ramps and is concerned about dangerous situation. Mr. Wojtkiewicz asked about increasing cleaning in the ramp area because he does not like to look at this. Gladiola Terrace is cleaned by himself first thing in the morning. 6. Signs in poor condition: Selectman Colella stated he ivill tell the highway dept. 7. Sewer hook -up 6" forced main under 495 numing down South Main Street to Hall St. Asked what will happen to this forced main and who is responsible. Selectman Pasquale stated that it's under the jurisdiction of MASS HIGHWAY and has been abandoned at their request. It does not have a negative impact on the community. Mr. Karl Clemmey, abutter, Thanked the Board of Selectmen for allowing him to speak. He stated that he would have liked the Town Manager and Town Counsel to be present. He commented that he had written 26 letters to the Town regarding Great Woods and had received only three responses. Mr. Clemmey made the following comments: 1. Paragraph #2 Great Woods, Inc. Entertainment License Rules and Regulations - April 1996: Traffic Management Plan should be part of the license. He asked about a committee or review team. He Gave a copy of the letter issued by the Commonwealth of Mass to the Board of Selectmen. Great Woods, Inc. has submitted a plan to the State which is currently being reviewed. 2. Parking Fee: Will the fee for parking be stated on the tickets? Mr. Montgomery stated that this is up to Great Woods 3. Great Woods regulations: Asked why there aren't any regulations in effect other than in the license. 4. Paragraph #3 Great Woods, Inc. Entertainment License Rules and Regulations - April 1996: States that drinking is prohibited in the parking lot. Mr. Clemmey stated that the Town of Mansfield is liable for this as it is stated that this is prohibited in this parking lot. He stated that there is a new alcohol abuse unit in the State Police. Mr. Clemmey recommended that this should be reviewed by Town Counsel. Chief O Neill stated that he is the head of police security not security for Great Woods. 5. Number of persons on premises: not to exceed 19,900. Mr. Clemmey stated that he had hued individuals to do traffic counts and his reports show over twenty thousand. He forwarded this information to the Board of Selectmen. There were comments on the validity of these counts as they did not include individuals or groups leaving the Great Woods facilities prior to the beginning of the concert. 6. Jurisdiction Issues: Stated that his interpretation of the law stated that the Great Woods is under jurisdiction of the Fire Chief and not the Police Chief. 7. Charges for Police and Fire Vehicles: Stated that he has the detail logs and has photographs of police and fie vehicles on site that were not charged. 8. Water Use: Concerned was expressed that Great Woods, Inc. uses over a million gallons of water per year and suggested that they install wells. 9. Fee of license: The license fee of $75.00 (set by state law), should be charged per concert not per year. Great Woods Workshop 2 -20 -97 aHgl 10. 1994 - ZBA Variance: still in litigation over a dispute, no determination has been made. When will this be resolved. 11. Management Fees: $53,000 was given to the Town in management in fees. This should be reviewed. 12. Sanitary Facilities: Discussed flow of water and urine into the Rumford River. Should have put into two facilities. 13. Vehicles and Fees: Suggested that Great Woods buy the vehicles and have them sit their site. Our fees are too low. 14. Details: Are the details paid up fiont. Selectman Pasquale commented that all fees should be paid in accordance with the Town's detail policy. 15. Comments on Chief O'Neill working for Great Woods, Inc. 16. Comments on rapes at the Great Woods facilities- (There were two alleged rapes and charges filed on one.) 17. Comments on role of Chief O'Neill. Mr. Montgomery responded that many of Mr. Clemmey's comments were inaccurate.. Mrs. Teny Anderson, resident, commented on her community involvement and Great Woods and their community involvement. She stated that she takes offense to the comments made this evening. Mrs. Anderson wanted to know the accuracy of the numbers. She stated that Chief O'Neill and Chief Sliney are comfortable with the License. Mrs. Anderson asked the Board of Selectman what has Great Woods done that is so bad. In her opinion site feels that Great Woods is an asset to the Town. Mr. Mike VanSplinter, Gilbert St. stated that we going through our annual ritual for Great Woods. He has been listening to the collective single thoughts and comments of the attack. He stated that Great Woods employs approximately 1500 people per season with a staff of 600 to 700 per concert. Mr. VanSplinter commented that it is like "milking the cash cow ". He also felt that the Chief and Board of Selectman have been attacked all in the name of personal political gains. Mr. George Wojtkiewicz stated that it is important that the Town remains impartial to the gifts and good will that have been done. He stated that the Town cannot consider this when reviewing the license. Mr. Dan Clemmey, resident made the following comments: 1. Problems: Asked residents to come to his home or workplace and see if they would appreciate the problems from the patrons of Great Woods. 2. Parking Lot Parthes: Parking lots are used by people to party. Commented on 29 drunk driving convictions fiom Great Woods. Commented on Norton's Policy and the fact that MADD is concerned. He asked the Board of Selectmen to take action 3. Commented on relations between Clemmey's and Great Woods, Inc. 4. Portable jail cell s - good idea 5. Emergency access gate - removing telephone pole is a good idea 6. States that all his information will be made available to the public. Great Woods Workshop 2 -20 -97 7. Expressed concern over public safety. ( 8. Traffic: Commented on experiment of walking on State property and crossing Route 140. Asks about the traffic plan that has been submitted to the State and requests to have that plan be enforced. Chief Sliney, made the following continents in response to comments made by the public and Board of Selectmen: 1. Vehicle charges set up by former Town Manager Rande Wilson. The Chief asked for the Boards guidance in establishing new standards for vehicle charge calculation. 2. The Chief also stated that he uses his "official vehicle" for his own transportation and not for Great Woods use. 3. Great Woods not only provides a private ambulance they also have nurses on staff. The Chief stated that he is primarily therefor fire services. The Mansfield Ambulance has responded to medical calls at Great Woods, the clients have paid for this service. 4. The Chief stated that he can always be reached by pager, phone, and portable radio. 5. The Chief is agreeable to the installation of an access gate. 6. Change wording to read Squad 1, Squad 2. He stated that any additional personnel added at the Chiefs instruction. Chief O'Neill made the following comments: 1. Counters were a private firm - observed by Police Department, he commented that the film counted people going in and not going out. ( 2. Commented on Fire Chief being in charge, he stated that the Fie Chief signs off on parking lot permits. 3. The Chief stated that his "official car" is used for his personal transportation not for Great Wood use. 4. He stated that the motorcycle was obtained in 1989. The engine was completely rebuilt in 1996. It was due to a Harley problem. 5. Comments on not charging for motorcycle. The Chief stated that all vehicles assigned to Great Woods duties are and have been billed. 6. The Chief also stated that a 10% administration charged is added to all their bills and this covers the costs of administration time that is spent on Great Woods. 7. The Chief responded that he does not know how many last drink reports come out of other entertainment facilities. 8. The Chief stated that the Route 140 crossing experiment was done at the request of Great Woods, Inc. to improve pedestrian safety. It was done for one night only because it didn't work as expected. 9. The Chief stated that he is not responsible for full security. He is responsible for the public safety as enforced by the Police Department. Great Woods has their own security force. Lt. Figueredo and Lt. Crickafd are in charge when the Chief is not on the detail. 10. The Police Chief stated that he has received clearance limn the State Ethics Commission to work at Great Woods. A copy is on file with the Town Mr. Montgomery responded to comments made. He stated that there was no need to 1 respond to Mr. Clemurey's statements. He stated that there is a permanent injunction by Great Woods Workshop 2 -20 -97 7 a(a0(61 the Stated against Mr. Clemmey on this type of action. Great Woods, Inc. has worked ( long and hard with the town and has tried to be responsive to the needs of the community. Mr. Montgomery also stated that Great Woods, Inc. has a fine reputation known through out the entertainment community. Chairman Madan stated that the Board will review all the information that was discussed at this workshop. He stated that the next meeting will be more detailed. Selectman Mahana is responsive to the information obtained, however, there must be a limit. He stated that the problem areas must be addressed. He would wants only usefiil information and not to be buried with non- usefiul information. For example, is the vehicle charge comparable to other towns. Selectmen Pasquale spoke on the information that was presented. 1. He asked if we get copies of the traffic plan that was submitted by Great Woods. The Police Chief stated that he receives a copy. The Chief also stated that, in the 1996, he had requested an outside evaluation, performed by Lt. Faye of the MA State Police of police traffic operations in conjunction with Great Woods and satellite parking lots. A report will be made available. 2. Selectman Pasquale would like Town Counsel to review the situation with consumption of alcoholic beverages in the parking lot. He is concerned with the Town's liability. 3. He asked if Great Woods would supply the number of paid receipts to verify admission number. He is concerned that we do not exceed 19,900 in paid admissions. Mr. Montgomery stated that this is confidential information. He stated that the Town is welcome to observe the count at the gates. 4. Paragraphs 6 in the Great Woods, Inc. Entertainment License Rules and Regulations - April 1996: Parking lot fee determination must be made by Town Counsel. 5. Use of water should be the same as all other users. Other high use industrial users are not requested to put in wells. 6. The Zoning Board of Appeals suit is being reviewed by Town Counsel 7. Selectman Pasquale asked if the "last drink statement" is a sworn statement. Chief O'Neill stated that it is not. 8. Paragraphs 10 in the Great Woods, Inc. Entertainment License Rules and Regulations - April 1996: Payment of Details and Equipment: The first sentence should read " In all instances the Licensee shall provide payment in accordance with the Town Policy for all public health and safety personnel and equipment, plus a 10% administrative fee for each performance." 9. Selectman Pasquale stated that the availability for the Police Chief has never been a problem. He has always stated that when ever he has gone to the Great Woods, he has announced himself and asked that the present members of Board of Selectman announce themselves. 10. He commented that Town has always been responsive and this has cost the Town money. Great Woods Workshop 2 -20 -97 a l aojq 7 11. Motorcycle has been addressed. 12 - The detail issue and use of the motorcycle needs to be addressed. Chief Sliney commented that the wording on the ticket relating to parking charges has not been resolved. It is still with Town Counsel. Mr. Clemmey stated that he would be willing to submit affidavits to the Board of Selectmen. The meeting adjourned at 10:00pm Respectfiilly submitted, Norman Mahana, Clerk � igna re o Mrk Date of acceptance Great Woods Workshop 2 -20 -97