HomeMy WebLinkAboutBOS 07/11/2018Minutes of Board of Selectmen Meeting
July 11, 2018
Present: Mr. Michael Trowbridge, Chairman; Mr. Jess Aptowitz, Vice -Chairman; Mr. Steve Schoonveld, Clerk; Frank
DelVecchio and Mr. Neil Rhein
I. Call To Order Board of Selectmen Meeting -Pledge of Allegiance
Chairman Trowbridge called the meeting to order at 6:30PM. He reminded everyone that the meeting was being
broadcast live and taped for future broadcast on Mansfield Cable. He asked if there were any members of the
audience recording, to which there was no reply.
2. Promotional Ceremony for the Police Department
Chief Sellon came forward and introduced Officer Thomas Connor who was promoting to Sergeant. He stated that
he was a lifelong resident of Mansfield and graduated from Mansfield High School in 1985. Officer Connor was
hired by the Police Department in 1995 and took over the Dare program in 1996; however he was also a summer
employee for the Electric department. Officer Christopher Baker was then introduced who was being promoted to
Sergeant who had a varied twenty eight year law enforcement experience in his career. Sergeant Roy Bain came
forward who was promoting to Lieutenant who began his career in 1995 with the Town of Mansfield and has been
on the SWOT team since 2004 and is currently the co -commander of the team. Lastly, Sergeant Michael Ellsworth
was introduced who was promoting to Deputy Chief, which makes him the first in the Town of Mansfield. He was
first hired in 1993 and was raised in Mansfield. Ms. Marianne Staples then came forward to swear in each of them
and the families came forward and pinned the badges.
Mr. DelVecchio commented that it was an awesome display of comradery and that it was a touching ceremony and
it was obvious why these men deserved these opportunities and looked forward to their continued service. Mr.
Aptowitz echoed Mr. DelVecchio and stated they should be proud to see so many people here showing their
support. Mr. Aptowitz stated that he was proud of all four of them as well as the entire department that work hard
y day. Mr. Schoonveld congratulated them and noted that there was decades of service amongst the four
individuals. Mr. Rhein thanked them and noted it was an impressive amount of experience and display of family
here. Chairman Trowbridge congratulated them and stated that he has known everyone for many years with
exception of Sergeant Baker who was new to Mansfield. He wished them well and to have a great night at the
celebration. He also joked that there were four new people for the dunk tank.
3. Consideration of Supervisor of Support Staff and Communications Job Description
Chief Sellon stated the position was conceived through the Budget Subcommittee to help the Police Department
transition to the new Regional Dispatch Center. The Chief explained that the position will be in charge of personnel
of the front desk, fire arm permitting, records requests and ensuring that the department can provide the best level
of service for their "customers." The Board then asked Chief Sellon questions about the job description and the
process he used to create it.
Motion: To approve the Supervisor of Support Staff and Communications job description for Public Safety with the
additional requirement it addresses the receptionist item and Human Resources reviews the document with the
permission of the Superintendent of Schools. (Schoonveld/Aptowitz) Passes 5:0
4. Consideration of Diane Simms to Serve on the Conservation Commission
Ms. Diane Simms came forward and explained her background and work experience. She stated she worked for
several years for Fidelity Investments in Risk Management and left in order to go back to school to get a Bachelor's
degree in Environmental Science. She now wanted to get more involved with the Town affairs and she saw this
onnortunity to support Conservation as a perfect fit. She noted that she interned for Save the Bay and was familiar
k(,_ , many of the conservation properties within Mansfield.
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July 11, 2018 Page 1
Mr. Schoonveld thanked her for her time and asked her how the Conservation Commission works with residents
and what are good practices. Ms. Simms answered that she read the plan on the Towns website of the action items
and would like to help move them forward. She also stated that if a person who wants to develop their property
that abuts conservation then they should follow the state regulations and understand how it will impact the
conservation area. Mr. Rhein commented that she provided a great introduction. Mr. Aptowitz stated she had a
nguished background and stated that people come to the Conservation Commission many times because there
are issues and asked Ms. Simms how she would handle those situations and make those tough decisions. Ms. Simms
answered that it can be difficult and as Vice President of Risk Management at Fidelity she had institutional clients
that she had to say no to. She stated that if you can explain why the answer is no and the client understands why
the answer is a no it can make a difference and the person can feel understood. She further explained that she
would look at policies and sometimes an exception could be made because the policy was out of date or had
minimal risk. Mr. DelVecchio had no questions and commented that Ms. Simms had a good combination of recent
education that will complement the other committee members. Chairman Trowbridge stated that many times
people come in who are predisposed of why they are joining, so it was nice to see Ms. Simms coming forward
offering skills and that she cared about the environment. He then noted that Mansfield has its own wetland bylaw
which is more restrictive than the Wetland Protection Act.
Motion: To appoint Diane Simms to serve on the Conservation Commission to an unexpired term to expire
December 31, 2021. (Schoonveld/DelVecchio) Passes 5:0
5. Discussion and Approval To Waive Moratorium for Oxford Street
Mr. Azinheira explained that the gas company was putting in a new service line; originally they planned to put a line
all the way down Oxford Street, but the connection was in the apron where Oxford connects to Cabot. He explained
that they would be paying for the repaving of the apron and that the same apron was recently cut due to a gas leak.
Mr. Azinheira recommended the Board approve the waiver of the moratorium.
Aptowitz asked how long ago that road was repaved. Mr. Azinheira answered last year. Mr. Aptowitz asked if
., utility companies are aware when a road is going to be repaved so they can complete the work beforehand. Mr.
Azinheira answered that abutters are notified and that this request was generated by a customer wanting larger
service, the current line is not handling the load. Mr. Azinheira asked how large of an area of the road was being
torn up. Mr. Azinheira answered that it was seventy eight feet. Mr. Azinheira stated that there was going to be a
seam when Cabot is paved but now the seam will be twelve to thirteen feet in. Mr. Schoonveld asked if the road
was going to be uneven and Mr. Azinheira answered the patch will be even and Cabot is planned for repaving next
year and will redo the apron on Oxford. Mr. DelVecchio, Mr. Rhein and Chairman Trowbridge had no questions.
Motion: To approve the waiver of the moratorium on Oxford Street as described and subject to the satisfaction of
the DPW Director. (Schoonveld/Aptowitz) Passes 4:0
6. Discussion and Approval to Waive Moratorium for North Main Street/Thomas Street/Old Colony Way
Mr. Valanzola was present with Mr. Marco Crugnale for the Development of a new project in the area of North
Main Street, Thomas Street and Old Colony Way. Mr. Valanzola stated that Mr. Azinheira was working with the
engineer to diminish the number of curb cuts for the project. He stated the project still needs site plan approval, but
came before the Board tonight to get an opinion and to keep the project moving forward.
Mr. DelVecchio had no questions. Mr. Aptowitz asked if the Planning Board had approved the site plan. Mr.
Valanzola confirmed they have had three hearings and everything has been submitted to their satisfaction and that
a special permit was not needed. Mr. Aptowitz then asked if this goes positively tonight what is the next step for the
project. Mr. Valanzola stated the plan is to schedule the closing for early fall or winter as there are contracts with
ting tenants. Mr. Aptowitz stated that the Board tonight was deciding on the curb cuts alone and not the merits
- -.ne project. Mr. Schoonveld asked if they needed to go back to the Planning Board and Mr. Valanzola stated
there are some conditions with the color of the boards that need approval. Mr. Schoonveld asked if they were going
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July 11, 2018 Page 2
to the Zoning Board and Mr. Valanzola answered that they did not need to go before the Zoning Board. Mr.
Schoonveld he would likely hear Mr. Azinheira's opinion. Mr. Rhein stated he was not an expert and asked why the
Board approves curb cuts. Chairman Trowbridge answered that because there was new pavement there is a five
year moratorium in place. Mr. Rhein then asked why the curb cuts were needed and Mr. Valanzola answered they
Were for the utilities. Mr. Azinheira stated he would like the Board to take a vote of concept, but would like to see
final work of where the cuts will be. He added that currently the engineer has three cuts, but believes they can
design to have one cut with a larger patch to disturb as little of the blacktop as possible. Mr. Valanzola added that
all the sidewalks will be re -done in that area making them wider. Mr. Crugnale commented that the Town was
possibly applying for a MassWorks grant and Mr. Azinheira stated that if they were redoing the sidewalks he would
want them build them out ten feet so that it can be connected with the bike path and meets with the long term
plan with the Town. The Board and applicant agreed to come back on August 8th with a final plan.
Motion: To approve the concept for the discussion with Town staff for the purposes of a road opening on Thomas
Street. (Schoonveld/Aptowitz) Passes 5:0
7. Discussion of 51 West Church Street Parking Lot
Mr. Valanzola was present on behalf of West Church Realty LLC and the owners Eric and Jeff Strom. Mr. Valanzola
stated the property is located at 51 West Church Street and they have gone before the Conservation Commission
for a proposed 68 space commuter parking lot. He explained that the lot is located near the Rumford River and the
Conservation Commission determined that crushed material should be used. Mr. Valanzola stated there is a
desperate need for parking and this would hopefully relieve some of the pressure. The next step is to go before the
Zoning Board at the end of July and then apply for a special permit from the Planning Board, but was before the
Selectmen for their opinion before taking the next steps and further expenses.
Mr. Aptowitz asked how would snow plowing work in the winter work with a crushed stone. Mr. Valanzola
answered that it would be a material that packs down, but becomes pervious. Mr. Aptowitz stated that he would
�10-- to see more parking for Mansfield residents not another parking lot for out of Towners, but was unsure how to
.:iement that. Mr. DelVecchio stated he was excited about this project and that it may resolve some parking
issues because there is a demand for parking. Mr. DelVecchio thought it would be an improvement to that area and
could move some of the pressure across Route 106. He also appreciated that it was being environmentally friendly.
Mr. Schoonveld stated that he agreed with Mr. Aptowitz that the problem is the lack of residential parking. He
commented that he liked the light poles being included and that parking on this side of Town and would be an
easier exit. Mr. Schoonveld questioned if the Town could require some spots to be residential. Mr. Rhein asked
what the traffic pattern would be. Mr. Valanzola stated they could go down West Church Street and High Street
towards West Street and believes people will avoid Route 106 and that the spots will be used by those coming from
Route 495. Mr. Rhein asked if it would only be available to those with monthly passes. Mr. Valanzola answered that
it will depend on the demand. Mr. Rhein asked what type of landscaping was planned. Mr. Valanzola stated that it
was pretty dense currently and any landscaping would not provide much additional benefit. Mr. Rhein suggested
that the payment structure could potentially be different for resident versus nonresident to attract more Mansfield
residents. Chairman Trowbridge stated that he had no reservations about a parking lot there and shares the
concerns of Mr. Aptowitz will trying to get Mansfield residents there. He understood if Mansfield Residents do not
come then there would have to be a different plan. Chairman Trowbridge asked them to think of ways they could
get Mansfield residents to park there and would like the opinion of public safety.
8. Consideration of Procurement for Specialty Equipment for Foolish Hill Reservoir Tank Mixing System
Mr. Azinheira stated this was a formality item for the Board to approve the purchase of equipment. Foolish Hill had
piping that has deteriorated and that it was $250,000-$300,000 to replace piping and found this method was more
cnst effective and was asking for the Board approval for the sole source specification. The water needs to mix so
Isets of bacteria can't grow. There were no questions from the Board.
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Motion: To approve the procurement for Specialty Equipment for Foolish Hill Reservoir Tank Mixing System.
(Schoonveld/Rhein) Passes 5:0
9. Discussion of North Main Street Fire Station and West Street Police Station Use
Mr. Dumas recommended the North Main Street Fire Station be made available for surplus and disposition once the
department is moved into the new facility. Chief Boldrighini stated that the building was constructed in the
1930's and has deteriorated and could not be repaired to function as a modern day facility. The cost to rehab would
be 1.2 million dollars, not including remodeling to repurpose it into something different. Mr. Ahern stated that the
intent has always been to sell the building and not keep it and only emergency repairs have been done.
Mr. DelVecchio stated that he does not know if there was a formal vote taken to sell the building. Mr. Aptowitz
stated that there have been many suggestions of what this property should be, but realistically someone has to
spend a lot of money to make it a place for a business. Mr. Schoonveld asked the Chief that it must hurt to think of
selling that building because of its beautiful fagade, but 1.2 million dollars to get to an empty blank canvas. Mr.
Rhein stated that his opinion was that the Town would not want to spend the money to get the building to be a
useful community space, and did not know if even a private entity would spend that. Mr. Rhein suggested maybe a
developer could possibly keep the fagade to preserve part of the buildings character. Mr. Schoonveld summarized
three options the Board may consider, repurpose for town use, sell with restrictions of use, and sell without
restrictions. Chairman Trowbridge asked the Board if they wanted to try to sell it with the stipulation or restriction
that it has to keep the building preserved.
The Board then discussed the West Street Police Station, Mr. Dumas stated that the Council on Aging (COA) and
Park and Recreations both have needs and a feasibility study needs to be completed to determine if the space can
be renovated or if the Town should start new. Mr. Rhein asked if the current COA facility was inadequate Mr.
Dumas answered it was. He then asked if a new center could also provide a teen or community center. Mr. Dumas
agreed that many aging adults are facing isolation so a recreational component to share the facility would be
f __yeficial as well as a shelter space for emergencies. Mr. Ahern stated that in 2010 it was estimated that it would
million dollars to do repairs, however the building could be repurposed a lot easier than the Fire Station. Mr.
Schoonveld stated there are the Towns needs are enormous and that all options should be considered. He added
that the West Street property was a great location. Mr. Aptowitz stated the Town just spent $35 million for East
Street Public Safety. He added the Towns needs to spend wisely and think about where the money will come from.
Mr. DelVecchio stated that the footprint of the West Street Police station is very disjointed and is unsure what that
space is best suited for, but the location was great and would hate to see that land sold. He stated that years ago
there were grants available for COA facilities and they may still be available. Chairman Trowbridge stated he thinks
the property would be best suited for a COA.
10. Discussion and possible vote on any FY18-related budget appropriation transfers needed as authorized by
MGL Ch. 44 Section 33B
There were not budget appropriate transfers needed, this was placed on the agenda in case an item came up.
11. Discussion and Consideration of No Through Trucking Signage
Mr. Azinheira came forward and stated that if the Board wants to consider a No Through Trucking area there is a
state approval process to follow that requires specific information. He stated it is not a simple Board vote. Chairman
Trowbridge stated this item came from a resident on Walnut Street who stated that the traffic patterns have
changed and many trucks are using Walnut Street as a cut through and now the Planning Board has suggested
making the center of Town a No Through Trucking area. Mr. Rhein asked what the definition of No Through
Trucking was. Mr. Azinheira answered that a truck is driving from one end to another end without making a
delivery. Mr. Schoonveld stated he would like the Town to be comprehensive on this if there are other streets that
I to be considered. Mr. Azinheira stated it is a lot of effort for each study and suggested doing one at a time.
Mr. DelVecchio asked if SRPEDD could help with the report and Mr. Azinheira answered they could help with the
traffic counts. Mr. DelVecchio asked which was more important and Chairman Trowbridge noted that Walnut Street
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July 11, 2018 Page 4
was brought up before North Main Street. Mr. Cook commented that Walnut Street since being paved the radius
was tightened up, but there has been lots of speeding on the street. Mr. Cook felt that North Main Street was a
higher priority and a safety concern. Mr. Azinheira stated he would look at costs and how much could be done in
house and use SERPEDD for traffic counts and come back to present to the Board.
3iscussion and Consideration of Fuel Assistance Coordinator Job Description
Mr. Dumas asked for this item to be moved to the next meeting.
13. Discussion and Consideration of Central Fleet Maintenance Job Descriptions
Mr. Azinheira stated that the job descriptions were completed by Mr. Cook and consulted Chief Boldrighini on the
requirements. He stated this is a step that the department needs to take and he noted that the union has approved
the positions. Mr. Dumas stated that Mr. Azinheira and Mr. Cook sat down with the union to get the buy in for the
positions and upon successful approval from the Board the position can be posted.
Mr. Schoonveld stated they were well written and asked what the expectations of applicants coming in with those
certifications and licenses. Mr. Cook answered that out of the three positions they are advertising for the entry level
positions and the certification for that are common amongst the auto dealers, but they would need to get their L1
certification. Mr. Azinheira added that the other two positions would be filled with current staff who would be
promoted and have five years to complete the necessary certifications. Mr. Rhein asked about the foreman position
and why Mr. Cook wouldn't want the applicant to already have the certifications. Mr. Cook answered that there are
not many individuals who have them so it would be difficult to fill the position. Mr. Cook added that by bringing the
service in house for the fire truck vehicles reduces costs and time that the vehicle is out of use and more time can
be sent doing preventive maintenance and inspections of the vehicles before problems arise. Mr. DelVecchio had no
questions. Mr. Aptowitz commented that the Town is lucky to have the two mechanics that they have.
Motion: To approve the Central Fleet Maintenance Job Descriptions of Fleet Maintenance Foreman, Emergency
V,Phicle Technician and Automotive/ Heavy Equipment Technician. (Schoonveld/Aptowitz) Passes 5:0
14. SEIVIRECC Update from Town Manager
Mr. Dumas stated all four communities would be meeting July 25`h as part of the Selectmen's meeting.
15. Resident Questions and Comments
Mr. Feely of Fruit Street came forward and stated he was happy to hear that the discussion of what to do with the
West Street facility and North Main Street Fire Station were going to be reoccurring agenda items as he sees these
to be challenging items and it's important to start the planning now.
16. Review and Approve Consent Agenda
All items on the Consent Agenda may be adopted with a single motion. Any member of the Board of Selectmen may
request that an item be withdrawn from the Consent Agenda for separate consideration in which case that item will
be voted on separately from the remainder of the Consent Agenda. All licenses have been routed through Town Hall
Departments and any conditions have been noted below.
a) Approval of Board of Selectmen Meeting Minutes for:
• June 20, 2018
b) Vote To Approve Warrants:
• Town Vendor Warrant No. 18052T in the amount of $561,127.99
• Electric Vendor Warrant No. 18052E in the amount of $62,237.03
• School Vendor Warrant No. 180525 in the amount of $610,158.54
• Town Vendor Warrant No. 18053T in the amount of $885,298.71
• Electric Vendor Warrant No. 18053E in the amount of $97,295.85
• School Vendor Warrant No. 18053S in the amount of $565,970.23
• Town Vendor Warrant No. 18054T in the amount of $277,757.77
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July 11, 2018 Page 5
• Electric Vendor Warrant No. 18054E in the amount of $73,860.73
• School Vendor Warrant No. 180545 in the amount of $202,334.27
• Town Vendor Warrant No. 19001T in the amount of $1,108,513.31
• Town Vendor Warrant No. 19002T in the amount of $977,085.80
• Electric Vendor Warrant No. 19002E in the amount of $137,975.00
C) Permits and License:
• Consideration of Hackney License for Glenn Coady
Motion: To approve the consent agenda with a minor edit to minutes of changing the word lost to the word loss on
page nine in the first paragraph. (Schoonveld/Aptowitz) Passes 5:0
17. Consideration and Approval of Town Payroll Warrants:
• Town Payroll/Town Medicaid Payroll 18052PT in the amount of $495,589.35
Motion: To approve Town Payroll/Town Medicaid Payroll 18052PT in the amount of $495,589.35.
(Schoonveld/Aptowitz) Passes 5:0
• Town Deductions Vendor Payroll 18052TV in the amount of $147,830.25
Motion: To approve Town Deductions Vendor Payroll 18052TV in the amount of $147,830.25. (Schoonveld/Aptowitz)
Passes 5:0
• School Payroll/School Medicaid Payroll 18052PS in the amount of $1,352,114.00
Motion: To approve School Payroll/School Medicaid Payroll 18052PS in the amount of $1,352,114.00.
(Schoonveld/Aptowitz) Passes 5:0
• School Deductions Vendor Payroll 18052SV in the amount of $366,241.17
Motion: To approve School Deductions Vendor Payroll 18052SV in the amount of $366,241.17.
(Schoonveld/Aptowitz) Passes 5:0
• Town Payroll/Town Medicaid Payroll 18053PT in the amount of $465,157.30
Motion: To approve Town Payroll/Town Medicaid Payroll 18053PT in the amount of $465,157.30.
oonveld/Aptowitz) Passes 5:0
• Town Deductions Vendor Payroll 18053TV in the amount of $138,396.71
Motion: To approve Town Deductions Vendor Payroll 18053TV in the amount of $138,396.71. (Schoonveld/Aptowitz)
Passes 5:0
• Town Payroll/Town Medicaid Payroll 18054PT in the amount of $145,739.43.
Motion: To approve Town Payroll/Town Medicaid Payroll 18054PT in the amount of $145,739.43.
(Schoonveld/Aptowitz) Passes 5:0
• Town Deductions Vendor Payroll 18054PS in the amount of $1,173,058.76.
Motion: To approve School Payroll/School Medicaid Payroll 18054PS in the amount of $1,173,058.76.
(Schoonveld/Aptowitz) Passes 5:0
• School Payroll/School Medicaid Payroll 18054SV in the amount of $326,721.89.
Motion: To approve School Deductions Vendor Payroll 18054SV in the amount of $326,721.89.
(Schoonveld/Aptowitz) Passes 5:0
• Town Payroll/Town Medicaid Payroll 19002PT in the amount of $289,498.95
Motion: To approve Town Payroll/Town Medicaid Payroll 19002PT in the amount of $289,498.95.
(Schoonveld/Aptowitz) Passes 5:0
• Town Deductions Vendor Payroll 19002TV in the amount of $128,530.63.
Motion: To approve Town Deductions Vendor Payroll 19002TV in the amount of $128,530.63. (Schoonveld/Aptowitz)
Passes 5:0
• School Payroll/School Medicaid Payroll 19002PS in the amount of $187,187.49.
Motion: To approve School Payroll/School Medicaid Payroll 19002PS in the amount of $187,187.49.
oonveld/Aptowitz) Passes 5:0
• School Deductions Vendor Payroll 19002SV in the amount of $51,716.61.
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July 11, 2018 Page 6
Motion: To approve School Deductions Vendor Payroll 19002SV in the amount of $51,716.61. (Schoonveld/Aptowitz)
Passes 5:0 .
18. Correspondence
• Letter from Verizon Fios of Pricing Changes
• Letter from Xfinity on Information on Video Services
• Resignation Letter from Anthony Sacchetti
• Letter from Town of Norton Board of Selectmen
• Letter from Hockomock Area YMCA
Mr. Schoonveld read a summary of the above correspondence items. Chairman Trowbridge asked to reach out to
Norton to see if the Norton Board of Selectmen could attend the next meeting at 5:45PM to discuss the
correspondence item of Reservoir Street proposed project and traffic concerns on South Main Street.
19. Town Manager's Report
Mr. Dumas stated the Family Fun Night was a fantastic event with lots of Town spirit. He stated the water and
sewer rate study will cost $19,000 for the consultant and the first meeting is set for the end of July. He stated that
Mr. Stanbrook has also made contact with a consultant for the parking study that was recommended by Mr. Rhein
and will be meeting to discuss the proposal on July 31't. Mr. Dumas is also working on reviewing the prerequisites to
establish Mansfield as a green community. Mr. Dumas also met with the HR consultant to discuss the structure for
HR for the Town. Mr. Dumas stated the fund balances are good and came in at close to the estimates, they are still
preliminary but he stated he would update the Board when they are final. Mr. Dumas noted the upcoming water
upgrade work that will be completed and added that the North Main Street Underpass project was underway. Mr.
Dumas then noted that the Winthrop Street commuter lot improvements were completed last week. Lastly Mr.
Dumas noted the brush cutting, street sweeping will continue.
20. Selectmen's Questions and Comments
"" `Aptowitz thanked him for talking about fund balances and noted that cable access will be attending a Board
meeting soon. Mr. Aptowitz stated that cell phone coverage in East Mansfield is bad. Mr. Dumas replied it would
probably be about a year for services to improve. Mr. Aptowitz asked if a meeting should be scheduled for the Audit
Committee. Mr. DelVecchio stated there was an opening on the Committee and should have the position filled and
then schedule a meeting for the fall. Chairman Trowbridge stated he is waiting to hear from School Committee on
available dates as the Audit Committee is a joint appointment. Mr. Aptowitz commented that there was a concert
that went over and Mr. Dumas should reach out to Mr. Mann. Lastly, Mr. Aptowitz then offered condolences to the
Carvalho family with the loss of Ben, who was a lifelong resident of Mansfield.
Mr. Schoonveld stated that there were fireworks at the Xfinity Center Sunday night and asked if there was a way to
post on social media to inform residents of them. Mr. Dumas confirmed it was approved by the State Fire Marshall.
Mr. Schoonveld asked about the weeds and when that work would be started. Mr. Dumas stated that Mr. Cook will
be spraying because he is the only one licensed to spray and he will distribute that information to the Board. Mr.
Schoonveld asked about the new health insurance transition and Mr. Dumas answered there have been no
problems and that cards arrived early. Mr. Schoonveld stated that before the next meeting, Mr. Dumas will have
been here 200 days and asked him if there have been any surprises. Mr. Dumas stated that the staff has been
fantastic and it was great to see the staff work together as a team. Mr. Dumas stated the most deficient item was
the lack of a HR staff; however the school HR Director has been very helpful on some severe personnel issues. He
noted that if the issues are not handled well it can be a severe liability to the Town. Mr. Dumas stated that he was
comfortable in the position and that the Town is functioning well and staff are dedicated. Mr. Schoonveld also
asked when the Open House for the DPW would be. Mr. Aptowitz answered that landscaping will be done in the fall
would be after that.
Mr. Rhein stated that Family Fun Night was a great event and thanked Caitlin Barrows and the Downtown Business
Association. He noted that crews immediately started cleaning up and thanked the Police and Fire for making it a
Meeting Minutes Board of Selectmen
July 11, 2018 Page 7
safe event. Mr. Rhein then thanked Mr. Dumas and the DPW for responding to his weed rant last week on Route
106 and it makes a huge difference. He then asked if Mr. Dumas could look into having the Municipal Lot at
Mansfield Bank weeded and noted there may also be a dead tree in one of the islands. Mr. Rhein stated the website
is out of date with some of the new pricing for stickers. He also asked if someone else could be trained to do
rr7dway spraying. Mr. Dumas stated that it is extensive process to get certified, and commented that Mr. Cook has
him he would never go through the certification process today if he didn't have it because it is so difficult. Mr.
Rhein stated the Town looks great compared to previous summers.
Mr. DelVecchio wished Mr. Rhein a happy belated birthday. Mr. Rhein wished Mr. DelVecchio the same. Chairman
Trowbridge noted they shared the same birthday and that Mr. Schoonveld also had a recent birthday.
Chairman Trowbridge commented that he would be taking Mr. Rhein's place at the Bristol County Advisory Board
meeting next week.
21. Any items not anticipated by the Chairman 48 hours prior to this meeting
There were no items.
22. Adjourn
Motion: To adjourn the July 11, 2018 Board of Selectmen meeting at 9:42PM. (Aptowitz/Schoonveld)
Passes :0
Signature Date
Minutes prepared by Carrie Champagne
Meeting Minutes Board of Selectmen
July 11, 2018 Page 8