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HomeMy WebLinkAboutBOS MINUTES 11-12-1980BOARD OF SELECTMEN /LIGHT COMMISSIONERS A G E N D A November 12, 1980 1. 7:00 P.M. Correspondence Review 2. 7:30 P.M. IDFA Industrial Revenue Bonding 3. Warrants Vote on Warrant #52 $48,440.21 4. 8:00 P.M. Alex Zaleski - SRPEDD 5. 8:15 P.M. Council on Aging Interviews y, Bi- monthly meeting of Boards and Committees 7 Correspondence f 8. Old Business Town Manager's Report 9. New Business 10. Adjournment NEXT WEEK: Light Commissioners Meeting BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES OF THE MEETING November 12, 1980 7:30 P.M. Call to Order PRESENT: Chairman Mahana, Selectmen Avery and Levine (Selectman May arrived later, Selectman Delong absent) Town Manager W. Chadwick Maurer, Jr. In the absence of Clerk May, it was moved that Selectman Levine act as Clerk. * N10TION: Avery /Mahana, 3 -0. Peter Saunders of the Industrial Development Finance Committee introduced Walter Gangle of Bingham, Dana, and Gould with a request for an industrial revenue bond in the amount of $1,806,800 to finance the acquisition, renovation, and re- equipment of a facility formerly the site of Sherwood Medical Building to be owned by the 135 Forbes Boulevard Trust, to be leased by the Trust to KMA,Inc. Peter Saunders stated that the IDFA had voted to approve the bond for $1,806,800 and respectfully requests Board's approval. Brochures and a finance statement had been submitted to Board members. Mr. Gangle was questioned as to parking facilities, and commented that they are presently constrained by zoning regulations, but were planning to add 120 spaces in the rear of the building. Mr. Gangle noted that they were also planning to put in new restrooms for both men and women to accommodate the 120 - 150 employees. Chairman Mahana noted that since the former tenants had only 20 people employed their sewer flow allowance was 20 gals. per day per person. Therefore, KMA would have to come in for additional permit for increased flow allowance. After checking with Town Manager to see if there might be any problems associated with the sewer parking, the Board voted approval of the application. MOTION: To approve an Industrial Revenue Bond of $1,806,800 for the development project to be owned by 13S Forbes Boulevard Trust as presented. Levine /Avery, 3 -0. WARRANTS * #52 for $48,440.21 Police Payroll approved, Levine /Avery, 3 -0 * #53 School Expenses, $192,234.01 approved, Avery, May, 3 -0 with Levine abstaining. Selectman May entered the meeting at this point, 7:55 p.m.) SRPEDD Chairman David Knight explained they were before the Board to discuss what SRPEDD is doing and to maintain good relations. He then introduced Alex Zaleski, Maria Gooch, and other members accompanying him along with the Rochester Chairman of Board of Selectmen. Alex Zaleski explained that a change in how SRPEDD is operating has taken place and that they are not afraid to take a position in support of a particular recommendation even when it is controversial. He explained that while they are planning and economic development district, planning may not be the most important item on everyone's mind. SRPEDD also has to offer the services of three registered engineers, a surveyor, lawyer, etc. These can be utilized at cost. -1- BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES OF THE MEETING November 12, 1980 Page 2 Maria Gooch then spoke to the Board relative to SRPEDD's attempts to have Mansfield designated as part of the Providence, Warwick, Pawtucket, labor market area. A letter has been sent to EDA from SRPEDD asking for this designation, as well as one from the Mansfield Board of Selectmen and a letter from thb Board accepting the overall economic plan. She noted that Mansfield is one of the few communities in the State that has not been designated a labor market area. When so designated, the town would be eligible for all the programs, such as sewer, roads, water, development of industrial parks, and rehabilitation of buildings. When we become eligible, according to Nis. Gooch, and we should apply for application, we would be eligible for a grant plus a 10% bonus. In the past, it was difficult to go for grant money from EDA for a private industrial park, but they have changed that. Town might also be eligible for water and sewer grants. You have to show that new jobs will be created for EDA benefits. EDA does offer some technical assistance grants also. Julia Enroth of Rochester noted that one of the way you can economize is by doing more things on a regional basis. SRPEDD will work with those communities who volunteer for this. One of the suggestions she noted was that perhaps some communities who have landfill problems might want to look at regionalization. Chairman Mahana asked how it would be determined which community had the landfill location, and she noted one of the suggestions was to do it on a rotating basis, thereby also sharing expenses. Selectman Avery noted that in the past Mansfield has tried to join the Prov. labor market but because we could not substantiate that our labor market really came out of the Providence labor market area, nor out of the Brockton, or Boston, area either, EDA would not make designation. Unless they have changed rules and regulations, this will remain the problem. Maria Gooch noted that at this point she remains optimistic. If there are any questions, the person to contact is Mr. FitzHenry at 223 -6468. Mr. Zaleski noted that a few telephone calls or letters from legislators might help. Council On Aging Appointment The three candidates with applications on file who are still interested in the appointment are: Elinor Vernon, Theda M. Hornung, and Gertrude Hofemann. After interviewing each of the candidates, the applicants were thanked and Chairman Mahana stated he would like to defer appointment until a later time. Selectman Avery commented that unfortunately there were only two vacancies, but that all three candidates were equally and very well qualified and he hoped that the one not chosen would seek to serve in some other capacity. Bi- Monthly meeting of Boards and Committees ARTS COUNCIL - Barbara Grady noted that the Arts Lottery was off the ground but that the public was not made fully aware that proceeds would be returned to the cities and towns. Depending upon the sale of the tickes, we are guaranteed 50� to $1.50 per capita the first year. She noted that they are still waiting for a set of State guidelines. It is her understanding there will be no restrictions on the use of the funds, but that recommendations will be submitted for approval. Townspeople will be asked to submit ideas and costs. Funds can be kept from year to year to accumulate and be applied towards the purchase of a building. The Council will hold a public discussion meeting when they receive the State guidelines. -2- BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES OF THE MEETING November 12, 1980 Page 3 At this time Chairman Mahana noted to those Board and Committee members present that he would urge the preparation of a lean budget keeping Proposition 2z in mind. He asked that they review any fee structures within the department or committee to be raised , but not to exceed the cost of the services provided. COUNCIL ON AGING - Rev. Flug stated that the Council was continuing the process of revising guidelines and job descriptions of all their people. They have received some very helpful training through Bristol County Health Agency. They are also concerned over the possible affects of Proposition 2'z on the senior citizens. If the Council raises fees they will be defeating their purpose. Rev. Flog stated they are very happy with Paula Kilby and Ada Miliken and they are seeking to expand their powers of recruitment on the Council and volunteers at the center. Re. Flug noted that the Clergy Association is pursuing the possibilities of speakers to use the Jacob Williams funds. Perhaps a formal proposal can be presented by the end of the year. SRPEDD - Richard Curley stated that the $300,000 Community Block Grant passed unanimously at the October meeting and has been referred to HUD for final approval. He asked the Board's opinion as to the possible legislative package for 1981. The most important is that now every community has two commissioners. It is proposed that each community over 20,000 in population would add another, and over 50,000 will be an elected official. This will alter the make -up of the commission. Some of the towns are against this because of the possibility of the larger cities pulling more weight. The Board of Selectmen were polled by Chairman and all opposed to this proposal. Mr. Curley noted that he had been appointed to serve on the Economic Development Committee, but could not make the meetings so he resigned. He is now on zoning. RECREATION COMMISSION - Ed Vernon noted that the Parks Department were in the process of doing end of year maintenance work. Some trees will be removed from the South Common, but only those designated by Ted Robinson. Voting booths were repaired, set up and taken down. He commented that in the future they will be taking a look at the work being done by the Park Department which is not Park work. He noted another attempt to vandalize Maple Park Bath House, and that the water level is still low and dropping, but they were still hoping to go forth with plans for next year's swim program. Ed noted that a disagreement over hiring policies had been resolved by Town Counsel but he pointed out a gray area where the Town Charter conflicts with State General Law(Chapter 45). South Common rail project will go out to bid this week. Work has been done on Fisher Richardson House, and a report is due from Carol Johnson Assoc. this week. In the recreation department Ed noted that the motor cross program was successful but had been cut short because of vandalism. Through the efforts of Paul Split the track was put back in shape. He noted the success of the Halloween Parade and Arts $ Crafts Fair and listed the ongoing programs being conducted by the department. Ed commented on the fact that they would try user fees wherever possible without charging young people. They cannot charge school department for the use of Memorial Park since they reciprocate by providing free use of school facilities to recreation department programs. BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES OF THE MEETING November 12, 1980 Page 4 ASSESSORS -A1 Turinese noted that the tax rate had been approved at $88 per thousand and he handed out copies of the recapitulation sheet. The tax bills arrived this morning in the Town Hall and will probably be in the mail on Friday to be due probably by December 15th. Re- evaluation - Al noted the team was about half way through their field work. Contract calls for hearings for homeowners requesting them to be held in September, finalization probably to come October 1 by the State. CONSERVATION COMMISSION - Doris Webb noted that much time has been spent on Wetland hearings. A hearing on BackBay Brook was continued twice. The Ash hearing which is near the possible well site was continued. The land has been purchased by the Great Woods Study Committee for the footbridge. An agreed price has been reached for land acquisition in West Mansfield and is now in the hands of Town Counsel. One of the concerns is over a large pond being reconstructed in Tam by a private contractor for which the Army Corps of Engineers has issued a cease and desist order. The Commission met on site with the Army Corps and are working on the problems. Emergency procedures were granted on the proposed well site without having to go through wetlands hearing at this time. Selectman Levine asked if anything had been done with the property on Mill St. which surrounds the town owned land? Ms. Webb noted that had been checked with Town Manager and it was part of the agreement that the man be allowed to cut down trees. They were being cleared from the roadway and would have had to come down anyway. ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS - George Wojtkiewicz noted that the hearings they are experiencing are for people adding onto their residential dwellings. One was to take a commercial use and convert to an apartment. After examination, there was some question whether this would be a good idea. AIRPORT COMMISSION - Rod Stearns noted that Chairman Larry Pigeon had resigned upon moving out of state and there is another resignation in the Board's correspondence this evening, leaving two vacancies. There are four applications on file. Request to meet with Board next Wednesday to fill vacancies. The improvements to the airport ramp and taxiway have been completed for the most part. Waiting to get federal funds to complete payment to contractor. The Master Plan is about at the half way point. Several meetings have been held with the Advisory Board and Fay, Spofford. He also reported they will be having a new airport manager as Leo LaPorte has left. Doris Webb questioned the tree cutting being done as some of her trees have been cut and they are crossing her property to get to the airport. Rod stated that the FAA has stipulated certain tree to be cut in order to obtain federal funding. Air Charter Services are responsible for this and are getting anyone they can to do the cutting, but should not be crossing private property. LIBRARY TRUSTEES - James Grady reported that relative to the library addition, the trustees have met and voted that their primary concern was with parking. They feel that some of the abutters had legitimate concerns with their fear that the new addition would bring new problems with parking to the area which would further impede the flow of traffic and create safety problems. The trustees have instructed their representative to the Municipal Building Committee to express their interest -4- BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES OF THE MEETING November 12, 1980 Page S in resolving those concerns. One possibility would be the closing of Union St. at that end and opening it up for parking. Town Manager will meet with trustees December 13th and has expressed his interest and concern with the parking problem. Mr. Grady also noted they had some serious safety issues which the fire chief has addressed, such as the heating unit is not properly insulated. Trustees will meet first with Town Manager and then will present a series of articles at Town Meeting which will deal with the existing building. They hope to have an article at Town Meeting with modifications as relates to parking. A brief discussion then ensued over Proposition 22 with both Jim Grady and Bob Saquet giving their views. MUNICIPAL BUILDING COMMITTEE -Bob Saquet stated that the most important issue on The library was the parking. They have done some research on funding and found there are none available. They are looking into some private sources of outside funding. Another question on the Ballot that involved the library was Question #1 on descrimination against the handicapped. In the past you did not have to address this issue unless you were remodeling. Bob feels it now appears that the Town will have to make all public facilities open to the handicapped. If the library is not added on to, it looks like we would have to add facilities for the handi- capped within the confines of the present building. Chairman Mahana suggests that Town Manager look into what the Town's responsibilities will be. The Board was asked whether they wanted the proposed DPW building kept alive, however, it was felt a full Board was necessary to answer that question. Bob also noted that over the past few years there has been some discussion on expansion of the fire department building and he asked for some Board input. Again, he was asked to wait for a full Board, and Chairman Mahana suggested that after the completion of the budget review process, they would take a good hard look at all of these various proposals. PLANNING BOARD - Marydee Flynn reported they are looking at a site plan for South Main Street which was in a business zone at the end of town. Another site plan was disapproved in the downtown business zone. They are also reviewing gravel permit for Maple Street area. They disapproved a subdivision on Balcolm St. due to a question of safety since the water quality proposal was not adequate. Chairman Mahana asked if the Board were planning to update zoning by -laws and was told they are starting to work on it. The new planning director is working on a schedule to bring recommendations to the Board over the next few weeks so that proposed amendments can be brought to Town Meeting. Chairman Mahana asked that those Board and Committees not attending tonight's meeting be rescheduled. Correspondence Letter from Council on Aging recommending unanimously Elinor Vernon to fill one vacancy while they were undecided between the other two applicants as they were both equally qualified. * MOTION: To appoint Elinor Vernon, Avery /Levine, 4 -0. x MOTION: To appoint Mrs. Hornung, May /Levine, 4 -0. C BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES OF THE MEETING November 12, 1980 ( Page 6 Memo from SRPEDD with regard to the Shared Planners Services. Request from League of Women Voters to hang signs on light poles. Board unable to grant permission, check with Light Director Jim Hall. Invitation to Board to attend Drop in Center Christmas Fair, November 15th, 9 to 3. Letter from Fire Department to Kathleen Thurston regarding blowing of fire horn. Letter from residents of lower South Main and Fruit Streets regarding sludge disposal signed by J.R. Sheehan to be included with sludge report. Notice from State DPU on public hearing to be held November 24 on application of Boston Edison Co., and others to make loans to the Conn. Yankee Atomic Power Co. from time to time. Letter from Medicompts, Inc. regarding ambulance billing. Meeting notice from 128 WRRC to be held December 2 at Mansfield Town Hall. Resignation submitted by Ronald Langille from Airport Commission. * MOTION: To accept and send letter of appreciation. Avery /May, 4 -0. Letter from DEQE regarding the appointment of a community hazardous waste coordinator. Chairman Mahana asked Tom Manager to look into who would be most logical appointee. Application for Airport Commission from Robert J. Lewis. Copy of letter to Bristol Arms Management from angry tenant. Massachusetts Municipal Association literature regarding the effects of Prop. 22. Massachusetts Municipal Depository Trust newsletter. Massachusetts Tourist Information Center monthly report. First Boston Public Power Financing Newsletter. Sewer Connection permit application for 18 Pleasant Street for Ronald Bonvie. Town Manager noted this is for apartment unit turned down by Planning Board as noted earlier. Suggestion to hold until a check can be made with planning board. Town Manager's Report Hand out on proposal for increasing of fees for liquor licenses. These have not been increased for at least 8 years. Town Manager recommends taking fees from highest area community and increasing accordingly with that Town which would be Foxboro. We now receive $9600, would go to $20,700. We may want to phase this in over a several year period to go to the maximum. Chairman Mahana asked for the pleasure of the Board and they agreed with maximum to be phased in. The fees were presented as follows: Package Goods - All Alcoholic Retail First Year Second Year $.800 $1000 BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES OF THE MEETING NOVEMBER 12, 1980 Page 7 First Year Second Year Package Store Wine $ Malt $500 $650 Restaurant All Alcohol 900 1200 Restaurant Wine $ Malt 350 S00 Clubs All Alcohol 150 225 MOTION: To approve fees in two stages for next two years as outlined, Avery /Levine Voted: 3 -1 with May opposed. Letter of notification to be sent to establishments. Budget Preparation Town Manager reported that some of the information requesting a five year review of what their appropriations and expenditures are has been received. Also the current step the department employees are on. Town Manager wants a history of how budget evolved to where it is now. By the middle of next week we will have received all of the budgets and will meet with each department. He reported that the FinCom has requested a meeting with all department heads before preparation of the budget. Town Manager replied that is not the way lie wants it done. Town Manager requested the department heads not meet with FinCom but with Town Manager who in turn will meet with FinCom before presentation to Board of Selectmen. Tax Bills Al Turinese mentioned that the tax bills are in. Town Manager reported, therefore, that the large industries have not been contacted to pay tax bills in advance, however, based on this report in the papers, the Mansfield Cooperative Bank has told us they will pay $100,000 of the excrow account tomorrow. Assuming the tax payments come in the way they should, there should not be any problem. Water They have found what appears to be a major leak in the water system under the Oak Street bridge. I don't know how much water has been going out at that particular point. On that industrial leak mentioned last week, Town Manager reported that the people have started to work on that problem. Selectman Levine noted she has been doing some research on the big users and sees a lot of problems with meters. There are quite a few meters that are not functioning. Town manager reports that work on the installation of the water main should be starting tomorrow with the pipe being delivered next Wednesday. Chairman Mahana instructed that in the future specifications for such projects be sent to local contractors. Town Manager commented that the way it is normally handled is that Whitman $ Howard is responsible for notifying contractors. Board Reports Selectman Levine noted that the JayCee's have requested that plywood be placed over the windows on the abandoned Fairfield building before they begin to restore Christmas lights at that location. Town Manager will try to find a better place to repair lights, either the highway department garage or Cate Springs. Ted Volante noted they would need a small amount of materials for repairs, and Chairman Maltana instructed that light department would give whatever supplies were necessary. -7- BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES OF THE MEETING NOVEMBER 12, 1980 Page 8 Chairman Mahana requested a layout of North and South Commons as well as Main St. in order to plan for Christmas decoration installation. Lincoln Holske noted to the Board that his wife passed through the {Vest Mansfield underpass and found the lights to be out. Very dangerous situation which could cause town liability. He suggested that perhaps police could keep this under surveillance for a time. Chairman Mahana suggested that police be asked to keep the kids moving along in West Mansfield. Mr. Holske also suggested that if the town were to get Bristol County on the ambulance, then we could collect from Medicare or whatever. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 11:10 P.M. May /Levine, 3 -0.