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HomeMy WebLinkAboutBOS MINUTES 04-01-2015Board of Selectmen Minutes April 1, 2015 Present: George Dentine, Chair; Jess Aptowitz, Vice Chair; Doug Amrino, Clerk; Frank DelVecchio; Olivier Kozlowski; William Ross, Town Manager Chairman Dentino called the meeting to order. The Chairman reminded everyone the meeting is beine broadcast live and taved for future broadcast on Mansfield Cable. Present before the Board this evening are Fire Chief Neal Boldrighini, Police Chief Ron Sellon, Jeff Alberti, who will work on the DPW portion of the project and Jeff Shaw who will work on the Public Safety side. Chief Boldrighini noted that Mike Ahern, Buildings and Special Projects, Mark Cook, Highway Operations Manager are also in attendance as they are part of the Committee as is Selectman Annino. A 12 minute recorded presentation was shown to the Board and a hard copy has been made a part of the record. Chairman Dentino asked for any questions from the public with regards to the presentation and proposed project. Gary Forget, 34 Webb Place, felt the likelihood of the Municipal Complex passing to be based upon the Board's actions with regards to how money is spent on planned projects within Town. He referenced future projects and expenditures such as work around the Train Station and the expansion of the Sewer /Treatment Plant, where a $1 million was spent on a piece of land, as well as the recently completed North Common re- design. Mr. Forget asked for the price tag on the re- design to which Mr. Ross reported was between $180,000 - $190,000 and came from Street, Public Building, Electric and other various accounts. Mr. Forget felt that the monies allocated to the referenced projects would be much better spent towards the proposed Municipal Complex. Although Mr. Forget was appreciative of Mr. Annino's contributions to Town projects, he was disappointed that costs associated with the North Common re- design was not readily known by the Board. Mr. Forget thought the proposed Municipal Complex to be a worthwhile project but felt residents needed assurance that the money was to be spent wisely. Chairman Dentino reminded Mr. Forget that the Town has over $100 million in budgets to oversee. Karl Clenuney, 175 Essex Street, asked if the Board is discussing the $35 million project this evening as he has noted there is not a lot of the public present as they are the ones paying for the project. Mr. Aptowitz quickly reminded Mr. Clemmey there has been a lot of work done by personnel with regards to presenting information to the residents and specifically noted meetings here at Town Hall and at the DPW facility. Mr. Clemmey noted everyone is in agreement that the Town is in need of a new Fire Department and DPW facility but questioned why the Police Department has been included and that the three projects have been lumped together. It was Mr. Clemmey's opinion the three should be broken out and voted on separately and felt this to be extremely unfair to the tax payers as Mansfield has become unaffordable to the "life- long" residents. Mr. Ross reminded Mr. Clemmey that the consensus from last year's Town Meeting Board Of Selectmen's Meeting April 1, 2015 Page I of 7 was that residents wanted to see more than just the DPW facility presented as the feeling was "there is more to come ". Mr. Forget returned to address the Board by stating he felt it was a mistake to borrow $1 million to repair the roads as it is short -lived and another example of money that could have been used towards this project and has thus added to the hardship of the residents to pay. Mr. Aptowitz explained there are so many needs within the Town (school, municipal, elderly, ect.) with a very limited budget and what they try to do as Selectmen is work with the Town Manager, School Superintendent and others to take what is presented and try to satisfy as many needs as possible within the confines of the taxes raised. He noted hard decisions have to be made by the Board and it does question what the best use is for the money and realized not everyone will be happy. Mr. Aptowitz commented that it is time to invest in the municipal infrastructure. 1VIr. DelVecchio has heard a lot of input with regards to this project which has ranged the entire spectrum. _ He is inclined to support the project but had a few questions: • Why Police facility needs replacing? Chief Sellon noted the problems lie in the liability realm as the facility presents itself poorly in terms of design. He referenced the design of the booking room, walking prisoners behind officers, poor female facilities and lack of storage for records. Chief Sellon explained that although the building was renovated in 1997 the foundation and supports are 40 years old and does not allow to build -up and also the layout of the lot does not allow for expansion. • Impact of Xfinity center? Chief Sellon reported the issue primarily is within the cell block configuration as currently there are only two female cells. Mr. DelVecchio clarified the question in that he is looking for how the Xf rrity Center impacts the work flow of the facility. Chief Sellon stated Xfinity has an impact on the operations and referenced the need for two to four additional female cells as well as the consideration of those cells on work flow space. Mr. DelVecchio is looking for the general cost of the additional cells within the $35 million cost as he wanted to be sure the facility is not being built to accommodate Xfinity's worst scenario over the next twenty years. Mr. Shaw stated it to be a negligible amount of money that those cells would add to the new facility stating less than $50,000 and to Chief Sellon's point the addition of those cells would have a marginal impact on the project. • Fiscal impact? Mr. Ross noted there was a slide within the presentation which showed the fiscal impact on various property values with three different links of bond issues. Mr. DelVecchio would like to have the backup. • Override? Chief Boldrighini explained this is not an override but a debt exclusion where there is an end to it. Chief Sellon noted that Walter Wilk, resident of Mansfield and member of the Finance Committee, could better explain the debt exclusion and its financial impact but was unavailable this evening as he was travelling. Mr. Ross explained the Town had its financial advisor run three different scenarios on the three bond issues (20, 25 and 30) and set them up in a mortgage style bond where there are equal payments rather than frontloading the principle at the front of the bond. This means as the value of the community builds hopefully the amount that is levied against each property goes down slightly. Mr. Ross clarified this debt exclusion does not add to the amount that can be under Prop 2 %. Mr. Aptowitz noted the chart within the presentation regarding the debt exclusion assessment would be in addition to "yearly annual increase to the normal 2 %2 process" as the Town does not know what tax increases will be for the future. Board Of Selectmen's Meeting April 1, 2015 Page 2 of 7 Mr. Annino stated this to be a great committee that attacked the project vigorously (working on square footage and diligently honing everything down) and to say the Town is building something it doesn't need is not rational. It is Mr. Annino's opinion the Town needs the complex and it is bare bones with the complex planning for the future but not overly planning. Mr. Arnrino felt the committee was cognitive of the fact that it didn't want to go into Town Meeting and present a budget and a building that the Town can't afford but recognizing that it has to be clone. He felt the case has been made that the Town needs the facilities. He explained that by doing the three projects together there is huge construction savings. Mr. Annino stated the Town has to live with the Xfinity Center and its constraints on the Town and felt it to be misleading to ask how much extra will something cost because it's here. Mr. Kozlowski reference an earlier statement regarding the Town purchasing a $1 million piece of property for wastewater disposal where the implication was the Town wasn't using it. He noted the Town will be using that property for that purpose. Finally, in terns of the big picture and with future projects like the wastewater plant (shared with Foxboro and Norton), Mr. Kozlowski asked if the Finance Committee or anyone, has looked at the debt exclusion in terms of will there need to be a further increase even with the School debt coming off. Mr. Ross noted the wastewater plant is now part of the MFN District, which will actually borrow the money, and any cost paid by Mansfield to the District is part of its membership toward the debt coming out of the revenues of the Sewer Enterprise and will not directly affect the property tax base. As to other possible debt exclusion projects, Mr. Ross noted at this point the Town is not aware of any but will look at needs of school building work but have yet to identify any but felt these would be maintenance items and not expansion. Mr. Aptowitz gave a great deal of credit to Mr. Annino as he has expended a lot of his time and effort on this project. Mr. Aptowitz has always been a proponent for this proposed site as it is centrally located, great access, allows for timely Public Safety reaction time with equipment in good condition. To his count there are five female officers that he felt are totally entitled to their own facilities. Mr. Aptowitz understands it is a great deal of money but does not want to throw good money after bad. In regards to Mr. Clemmey's question of breaking the projects out separately, it is his opinion to look at the project in its entirety as it would have larger savings. Mr. Aptowitz noted this is only one of many more presentations where residents can ask questions but at the end of the day the Town needs to be forward thinking. Mr. Aptowitz assured residents he is asking questions and has been assured this project will last 20 -30 years and invest in the municipal side of the house. Mr. DelVecchio asked for clarification with regards to the debt exclusion slide and if it reflects the impact of this project and not netting out the debt that is falling off. Mr. Ross agreed. Chief Sellon stated it cannot be overemphasized the fact that the Town is exploring a regional dispatch initiative as well. In order for that to move forward the Department needs to move out of its current location (50 West Street) and all five communities agree it's the only viable option. By consolidating that service the Town can save money in personnel costs (benefits packages) and State 911 will pick up the renovations of the building (50 West) which is in need of work. He felt this to be the functional equivalent to grants as the money will be spent somewhere. Mr. Ross furthered that there is more than just the work to the building but dispatch and radio equipment, computer and criminal information systems and includes at least the first year if not more of the dispatch supervisor's salary. Mr. Ross is 99% sure it can be done as State 911 has a lot of cash. To be clear Mr. DelVecchio asked if these potential savings are reflected within the presentation to Board Of Selectmen's Meeting April 1, 2015 Page 3 of 7 which Mr. Ross stated they are not. Chief Sellon noted his primary point is that they are looking at every avenue as far as long term operational savings and needs of the community in the most financially conservative way possible. Chairman Dentin noted the members of this Board do not just meet once a week as members sit on other Boards which run meetings throughout the week. It was the Chairman's feeling that this is one of the best chances the Town has to borrow money, get money out of Stabilization, spend money for Capital Improvements and place a campus with Police/Fire and DPW where it is indicative of being able to have a central location to service the Town quickly. Chairman Dentino referenced that all Town conur ittees (Finance, Capital Improvement, School) have bought into the fact that this is financially the time for this project. The Chairman felt there needed to be a better visual for the residents to see where the money is coming from and that this is an opportunity to move forward and not look back. The Chairman gave credit to the Finance and Capital Improvement Committee and felt the Town will have all the answers when it hits the Town Meeting floor. He felt this to be a great effort by many people. Mr. Ross reflected the Chairman's statement and noted Department Head and staff input. Mr. Ross also noted that the staff put together this evening's presentation completely in -house and did an excellent job. Chief Boldrighini noted the group was presented the task by the Town Manager to present a building that suits the needs of today and look to the future 30 to 50 years. Chief Boldrighini noted the outcome is not anything beyond what the current needs are and growing. The committee has worked to cut where it can and will continue to cut where they can find savings and maintain workflow. He reminded that today it is $35 million and the hope is that it is less at Town Meeting. Steve Schoonveld, 21 Newton Street and Chairman of the Finance Committee, pointed out the Finance Committee have been looking at the DPW facility for a year and a half with the combined aspect for the last six months. Mr. Schoonveld referenced the Finance Committee's March 19`t' meeting, which covered hard discussions of the tax impact to the Town, financial impact to the community and opportunity cost of not doing the project was also discussed at length. Mi•. Schoonveld noted the Finance Committee did fund a preliminary school assessment this year rather than waiting until next year to understand if there will be building or infrastructure needs down the road so some of that information will be available prior to Town Meeting. 1\4i•. Schoonveld noted the Committee will be happy to host fonums on this topic and noted that the Committee will produce a "position paper" where it will seek to answer every financial question. Bill Cowie, the President of NEFFA, is present before the Board. Mi•. Cowie noted NEFFA is excited to be in Mansfield again and looking forward to another successful event. Ms. Whalen reminded Mr. Cowie of the process for obtaining an event license and asked if prior to advertising the event NEFFA could submit its Event Permit, allow time for the Town to route the application and then appear before the Board for approval. She suggested to start the process in January and would be happy to work with them. Motion: To grant the permit for 2015 New England Folk Festival (Aptowitz/Annino) PASSES 5:0 Board Of Selectmen's Meeting April 1, 2015 Page 4 of 7 Mr. Ross distributed to the Board an update on the FYI Budget Calculations. The purpose is to keep the Board informed and referenced the second page are the results of the last Budget Sub - Committee meeting where consensus was received. The purpose of the distribution is to assure the Board that work continues to have a balanced budget. To date Mr. Ross surrrrnarized the following changes: • Move $150,000 of the snow cost from Free Cash to a Special Revenue Fund which will be reimbursed by • School Department has agreed to ask that $157,000 in textbook be moved to the Capital Plan • School Department has agreed to pay half of the HR Director's salary e Move ahead with borrowing for street work for the coming year to take advantage of low rates and reduce the cost' • Working with Board of Assessors on overlay but confident that $40,000 can be found • Working with personnel benefits and history of unallocated benefits shows a decrease • Raised New Growth $25,000 which is the aggressive number • $13,000 set aside for maintenance for Permitting Software was found to be included in the base cost • Lease Police vehicles instead of purchase where the Town will own in three years Mr. Ross reported the result of these changes gets the Town to a balanced budget and does not use any Reserve Funds and includes: • Police Officer for entire year • Crime Analyst position for entire year but Town will still apply with Gaming Commission for that salary • Additional hours for Conservation Agent Mr. Ross felt it addresses a number of the issues but noted is not a final document but rather showcases that the Town continues to work toward solutions. Mr. Ross also noted the School Department is in concert with the changes. Mr. Ross has planned a detailed discussion of the Budget with John Stanbrook and Department Heads for next week's Board of Selectmen's meeting. Department Heads are available to answer any questions the Board may have. Mr. Aptowitz liked the format but felt this to be too tight with no cushion. It was Mr. Aptowitz's opinion that the $150,000 for the Pension Reserve Fund should be used as the Town received a higher than expected amount from Bristol Retirement, which would give the Town a cushion. Mr. DelVeechio noted, to Mr. Aptowitz's point, the Unallocated Employee Benefits amount is what covers changes to employee /family situations and should have enough to cover those changes. Mr. Ross reported there is enough for two changes, which Mr. Aptowitz feels is not enough. Mr. DelVecchio also noted that Mr. Ross chose not to reflect the entire increase the Governor is proposing, which will also allow for a cushion. Mr. Ross noted that the Capital Improvement Committee and Budget Sub - Committee will meet next Monday, April oh where the office has posted for the Board to attend if it wishes to take part in the conversation. Board Of Selectmen's Meeting April 1, 2015 Page 5 of 7 Gary Forget, Webb Place, appreciated those who serve on Town Boards but is concerned that the routing process for licensing is not entirely fair. Mr. Forget questions the approval of licenses is determined by members on Town Boards that may not be up to date with real estate taxes and felt it to be unfair. Karl Clemmey, Essex Street, spoke to the issue regarding Route 106 as lie felt the Board was not acting quickly enough. He pointed out that, besides the current issues, there will be further taxing on the corridor with the building of the Chocolate Factory and proposed site of the DPW/Public Safety facility. Mr. Clemmey suggested hiring someone in -house to work on the project and to widen the corridor throueh eminent domain. a. Vote To Approve Board of Selectmen Minutes March 25, 2015 b. Vote To Approve Warrants: • Town Vendor Warrant No. 15040T in the amount of $1,412,879.36 • Electric Department Vendor Warrant No. 15040E in the amount of $18,818.74 • School Department Vendor Warrant No. 150405 in the amount of $486,424.59 c. Licenses and Permits: • Consideration of Hackney Driver License For o Richard Dalton, Already Taxi o Issa Jichi, Veterans Taxi o Donald Marco, Veterans Taxi o Stephen Sulivan, Veterans Taxi o Paul Thibeault, Veterans Taxi d. Events: • 3ra Annual Run With The Cops, Sunday, June 21st Motion: To approve the Consent Agenda as presented (DelVecchio /Annino) PASSES 5:0 • Town Payroll/Town Medicaid Payroll 15040PT in the amount of $292,735.78 Motion: To approve Town Payroll/Town Medicaid Payroll 1504OPT $292,735.78 (DelVecchio/Kozlowski) PASSES 5:0 • Town Deductions — Vendor Payroll 15040TV in the amount of $91,250.73 Motion: To approve Town Deductions — Vendor Payroll 15040TV $91,250.73 (DelVecchio/Kozlowski) PASSES 5:0 Receipt of the Town of Norton Planning Board's Decision To Approve The Proposed Solar Facility Located Off Hill Street Mr. Ross explained the Town is being notified as the site is adjacent to property the Town no longer owns which is close to the Trail. Mr. Ross reported that his office received the signed contract for the pothole repairs and authorization to proceed. Mr. Ross noted that as weather permits the Town will move forward. Board Of Selectmen's Meeting April 1, 2015 Page 6 of 7 Mr. DelVecchio noted there will be a new establishment at the Train Station starting April 13 "'. Mr. Aptowitz reported there will be an Audit Committee meeting this Wednesday, April 8th, prior to the Board's meeting to review the three proposals from accounting firms. Mr. Aptowitz commented that the Board is aware that Route 106 has issues and that each member has expressed its concern. Mr. Aptowitz stated that many of the Town's building projects do not come before the Board but rather before the Planning Board, as it is not the Selectmen's prevue. Mr. Aptowitz felt the Planning Board to do a great job and ask appropriate questions. Mr. Aptowitz again stated that in terms of the Municipal Complex it is expensive but the Town needs to look to the future and take advantage of interest rates being low. Mr. Aptowitz wished everyone a Happy Easter and Passover. Mr. Kozlowski noted that after the presentation on proposed changes for Route 106, he has put out on Social Media the lane change to one lane in either direction for the underpass and has not heard from anyone saying that was a good idea. He stated there will be future discussions. Mr. Kozlowski reported that he and Mr. Annino met with Mr. Ross, Public Safety and Xfrnity personnel regarding this season's license and noted they are close to presenting for the Board. Chairman Denthro would like to schedule a discussion regarding the Board's mission statement and status of Goals and Obiectives. None. To adjourn Board of Selectmen's Meeting at 9:26PM (Kozlowski /Aptowitz) PASSES 5:0 V( Si a re of Clerk /tdw Includes: Municipal Complex Presentation FY16 Budget Calculations As Of 4101115 Board Of Selectmen's Meeting April 1, 2015 Page 7 of 7 i t,g, I� Date of Approval