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Town of AmherstBoard of SelectmenNovember 13, 2006
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Board of Health
Dr. James Starke called the Board of Health to order at 6:40 p.m. Present: Selectmen George Infanti, Reed Panasiti, Bruce Bowler and Thomas Grella. Also present was Deputy Health Officer Mary Katherine Lockwood and Executive Assistant Sharon Frydlo. Town Administrator Gary MacGuire was in the audience.
Dr. Starke advised the application was for a proposed system on Baboosic Lake that carried several variances. Tom Carr, Meridian Land Services presented. The property was before the Board of Health 18 months ago when they were proposing a Septitech system to replace the one they had and it has not been installed. In the meantime, Mr. Benson researched other systems. There was one approved by the State for installation in New Hampshire that allowed for 50% reduction and switched the leachfield from a pipe and stone to an environmental system. There were waiver requests and were a bit more lenient than what the Septitech System application that came before them 18 months ago. The waivers requested are: (1) 2:1 slope (3:1 required); (2) 2’ to S.H.W.T. (4’ required); (3) Leachfield 72’ to Lake (75’ required); (4) Leachfield 21’ to on-site well (75’ required); (5) Leachfield 40’ to well on Lot 24-48 (75’ required); (6) Leachfield 43’ to well on Lot 24-46 (75’ required); (7) Microfast tank 6’ to property line (10’ required); (8) Microfast tank 48’ to on-site well (50’ required); (9) Microfast tank 51’ to well on Lot 24-46 (75’ required). These waivers were all necessary to get a leachfield placed on the lot. The leachfield is in the same spot approved a year and a half ago, but with a different setback. Both he and Dr. Starke had a lot of discussion over the past several days about the drip tube system which Dr. Starke showed an example of. This was a fairly new technology and from what they understand, it is a good and viable solution to a leachfield. In the future, they would like to have a representative in and discuss this type of system with the Board of Health.
Dr. Starke spoke about how the nitrates were absorbed into the system. He too, commented that he would propose having a representative come in and explain it more to the Board. He was very satisfied with the system. He spoke to West Virginia University and they suggested this system that would reduce the nitrates which would be absorbed into roots rather than groundwater. He was suggesting the system that Mr. Carr submitted and one they should use in the future.
Mr. Infanti asked if they were saying this was a more effective system than the Septitech one they approved 18 months ago. Mr. Carr advised it was simpler and he described the difference between the two. He felt the Septitech system an outstanding one, but this one appears to be $2000 cheaper and the overall simplicity of the operation was a very good idea. In response to Mr. Infanti’s question regarding waivers, Mr. Carr indicated that the waivers were actually less than what they asked for with the Septitech system. The Bensons have been living in the house full time for six years and would love to have a conversion because it is a small difficult lot and he was unsure on how the Town dealt with seasonal properties where people have been living there year-round. They have a septic tank they were extremely careful with water usage. Mr. Benson brought this system to his attention, was his first design with it and was working with the company on how it works. He was comfortable with it, would like to see it installed and how it worked vs. the Septitech System. If this was a good alternative function-wise, it was a good option.
Dr. Starke commented that there was one problem, there was less sludge and sludge absorbs more phosphates and they would have more of them going into the groundwater. In response to Mr. Grella’s question, Dr. Starke indicated that how much phosphates depended on how much it impacts the house. He couldn’t give an exact figure, but from what he read this system reduces the amount. He advised this was a preliminary discussion since he just received the application on Friday. The people had looked into this and in the future he would like to think about it.
Mr. Bowler commented the he was a little upset that Charlie Tiedemann was not invited to this meeting. He felt he should have been present as he was the Board’s “eyes and ears”. He asked if Mr. Carr had the waivers approved 18 months ago. Mr. Carr indicated the waivers were listed and he could prepare them. He did not believe there were any additional restrictions. Mr. Bowler asked if the well water was being tested and the results given prior to approval. Mr. Carr thought this an excellent question and he did not know what the results were. Mr. Bowler asked also if they knew of any State approvals, but not necessarily installed within the State. Mr. Carr briefly explained what the State requires for pre-treatment systems and that Meridian has not been required to be the Shepard on this system.
Mr. Bowler asked to table this application in order to review the Board of Health minutes for this particular lot and to see what Mr. Tiedemann would also recommend. Mr. Carr did not think this was a problem. Dr. Starke commented that he had told Mr. Benson that his water wasn’t potable and he shouldn’t drink or brush his teeth with it and was a problem they had. He spoke to people about the size of the lots and there is a problem with everyone. Mr. Bowler asked if the abutters were presented with a list of the waivers and were they in favor of them. Dr. Starke commented on the matter with Mr. Bowler advising he would discuss this further with the Town Administrator.
Mr. Panasiti asked about landscaping. Mr. Carr indicated there was no landscaping proposed – just grass, loam and seed is identified on the plan to help the system. Mr. Bowler moved to table this application for one week to be continued at 6:30 p.m. (on Monday, November 20), second by Mr. Grella. Vote: Unanimous.
Dr. Starke wanted to present another follow up for the Board of Health and that was the Tim Ferris / Barbara Enright property. The Board will meet at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, November 27. Mr. Bowler moved to adjourn the Board of Health Meeting at 7:04 p.m., second by Mr. Infanti. Vote: Unanimous.
Jay Dinkel arrived at 7:06 p.m. Chairman Bruce Bowler called the Selectmen’s meeting to order at 7:10 p.m. He announced that they would hold a Board of Health meeting next week at 6:30 p.m. regarding the Lake property and on November 27 the application for Lyndeborough Road at 6:00 p.m.
There were no questions or concerns from members in the audience.
Directory Amy Lapointe, Chairman of the Library Trustees Don Holden and Library Trustee Treasurer Bob Lown were present. Mrs. Lapointe introduced the Trustees presented as well as Dick Martini who is their “Treasure in Training” replacing Mr. Lown. She advised their budget represented the demand for circulation as well as attendance in programs – 166% for adults and 180% for children. Things continue to increase and so did their budget. The wage lines looked different and were recalculated and there was an actual 2% increase because of “tweaking some staffing”. She believed medical and dental insurance would come down, but would check this more carefully. Deferred Comp was a gamble and they had nothing under Longevity. There was an increase in Electronic Information, Custodial Services, Heat,
Education & Conferences and Supplies. Buildings & Grounds represented their quarterly payment for trash pickup, monthly fee for water cooler and irrigation system to turn it on and off. The New Equipment line was for a different type of shelving units which she described. The Programs line was for all programs of all ages. There was also an increase in IT wages in an effort to be more realistic this year.
Mr. Holden also advised the Library applied for grants for some programs. Mrs. Lapointe added that the Library applied for the maximum numbers available. Mr. Infanti was impressed with the numbers Mrs. Lapointe gave them based on a 4.97% increase with no increase in staff to juggle the number of people they had was impressive. Mr. Grella asked about sick leave incentives. Mr. MacGuire advised this item was in all departmental budgets. The Town had a provision to rewarded those people who do not go beyond their bank and will be paid back those days not used.
Relative to Mr. Panasiti’s question, Mrs. Lapointe indicated that the increase in the Custodial line was for carpet cleaning. Mr. Bowler asked about supplies and remarked they were almost at their budgeted amount now. Mrs. Lapointe explained this line is split between the Town and Trustee funds and she tended to spend the Town side first. Mr. Bowler asked to explain the Trust Funds. Mr. Lown advised that people sometimes leave money to the Town of Amherst for the Library and those funds are managed by the Trustees of the Trust Funds and they have the right to ask for money out of those funds. On occasion patrons leave money directly to the Library and those funds are managed by the Trustees of the Library. The funds are invested and they have approximately $80,000 of principal in the Gift Account. Mr. Holden added that fines and other money that comes in also goes to this account and can be expended without a formal budget process, but is restricted to what they can do with those funds. They also received money for replacement library cards along with non-residents who pay fees for them, explained Mr. Lown. They have a number of small income sources and they are used for their book budget. When they run out of the Town’s book budget line, they use funds out of this account.
Tedd Landon, W&M, indicated they met with Amy, Trustees and George Infanti and they saw a very good budget. They were particularly please that the cost for books, tapes and CD’s have gone down and is a good value for the money. This is a good department, a good budget and thought the Director is doing a good job.
Mr. Bowler advised they were losing Bob Lown as a member of the Trustees who was moving out of state. He personally thanked Mr. Lown for what he has done for the Town and knew he and Pixie would be missed for all they have done for the Town. He wished them well on their move to Maine. Board members spoke briefly of working with Mr. Lown on various Boards and Committees over the years and echoed Mr. Bowler’s remarks that he will be missed.
Recreation Budget Presentation
Recreation Director Nancy McMillan and Recreation Commission Chairman Dana Redmond were present. Mrs. McMillan told the Board that last year they had purchased docking for Baboosic Lake, they were installed and used and received many compliments over the summer. She highlighted some of the areas she reviewed with Mr. MacGuire and W&M in terms of increases and why there were increases. The increase in the telephone is to reflect the actual costs over the past 2-3 years. There were two funds associated with her department – the General Fund and the Revolving Account. The line for credit card fees and expenses has been put into the Revolving Account rather than being accounted for in the General Fund.
Relative to Baboosic Lake, Mrs. McMillan told the Board that there was a small increase. She pledged last year, not knowing the operation of the Lake, not to expend more money than what was given to them. With a good staff behind her, she was pleased that they were able to do this and there was still money to operate for the last two weeks of the season. Her recommendation for the coming year was to take some of the positions and combine them. For example, take the Aquatic Director and combine the position as an additional lifeguard. The Lake opens in the middle of June and closes the second week in August, thereby avoiding the blue algae season. She plans on working closely with UNH and Baboosic Lake Homeowners’ Association to give them the best test results. She was looking for a part time seasonal laborer for 25-30 hours per week to help with the mowing. She advised she has also reduced the over time hours for a decrease in this line and typically doesn’t grant overtime.
Board members commented on the tremendous job the Director has done in the past 12 months. There was discussion relating to the telephone line. Mr. MacGuire advised that several months ago they made a change in the cell phone plan and overall will see a savings. He is also working with Verizon and AT&T on the matter. Mr. Grella complimented the field maintenance at Spalding and Cemetery Fields comparing them to many college campuses and the employees were doing a great job. Mr. Infanti was impressed with the existing programs and the “bang for the buck” was incredible. “Hats off to you and your staff”, he said. Mr. Bowler agreed with the lifeguard change. He commented on the field maintenance employee being a shared position with DPW. Mrs. McMillan indicated that person was part of the maintenance wage line and she has him for nine months and DPW for three months.
Mrs. McMillan described the reason for the decrease in medical and dental. The former Director was on the Town’s plan, but she was not and took the buy back. Mr. Bowler briefly explained that if an employee opts out of the insurance, the Town pays them 50% of the lowest plan if they prove they have insurance which saves money for the Town. The line item of Lifeguards includes the position of Aquatic Director, six Lifeguards, all Swimming Instructors, Swim Team, and the expenses associated with concession stand, water testing, repairs and maintenance to their building. Mr. Infanti agreed that the title “Lifeguards” was misleading and should be changed.
In regard to Neal Foley’s request about the telephone expense, Mrs. McMillan will look at the past history and explain what the costs are for the phones. Mr. Dinkel commented her on the phenomenal newsletter, the programs have been growing and it was nice to read.
Mr. Redmond presented the Board with plans for the Bean Property Fields. The Town will be losing Cemetery Fields in the next five years and there will be an increase in demand for fields. The leases for School fields are up in 2009. If the fields were developed soon, they will not be available for use until 2009. The goal was to raise money without any impact on the taxpayers. $450,000 would cost them to develop the plan developed by CLD and put out to bid. In order to begin next year, they have to ask the Selectmen for $250,000 to be paid back in five years. He spoke of his discussions with the School Department and State Aid reimbursement. He also mentioned the Commission was looking for a loan available under the LUCT fund to finish the project. Mr. Panasiti mentioned that the LUCT fund would be a source of revenue and the Commission would work in conjunction with the School system regarding State Aid and it would have a minimum tax impact on the Town. Mr. Dinkel added that the use of the LUCT fund is one have of current use penalty received and would require a Town vote.
Recreation Commission member Bob Heaton spoke about the project, requested funding and reimbursement over a five year period. Board members weighed in on the topic asking questions and talking of concerns. Mr. Redmond commented on the need to renew the leases for fields with the School as times have changed and they needed to update them. This was a short term solution, not a long term one. Director McMillan indicated there was not enough field space for the demand and for the short term this would get them even, but the question was with Cemetery Fields regarding the long term use. The Recreation Commission was looking to put together a Master Plan and prioritize them to meet the Town’s needs. Mr. Heaton commented that the Board mentioned the statement “bang for your bucks”, that there were no other fields they would build or buy with 30% State Aid. Mr. Bowler remarked that a member of the School’s W&M Committee suggested looking at this property to build a new school vs. the Baboosic Lake property and would like to come up with a dollar amount for the School side. He also would like a legal opinion that the Town could put this on its Warrant and that the School would receive some State funds. This was a potential DRA issue and he asked if this was applied for in other towns. Mr. Redmond advised that Bedford had gone through this situation and felt that this would not be an issue, but if it became one, they would have to get around it.
Further discussion between W&M and the Selectmen pertained to legal restrictions on the land, the School floating a bond that they may not to want to float, that per Dwight Brew, Chairman of the Amherst School Board, did not want to put this on their Warrant because of the potential renovations they were facing. Mr. Redmond advised they were trying to potentially develop that land for both School and Town use. Mr. Bowler summarized that the funds requested would be out of the LUCT funds that had been put aside. He advised that this was not part of their agenda. Mr. Dinkel felt that even though this was not on the agenda, they should consider the use of the money for the purpose “with all things being equal”. This was a critical need and a good use of the funds as well if they received reimbursement as a bonus. Mr. Bowler advised the Board would be hearing more about this soon.
Co-Director Vickie Laforet and Advisory Board Members Brad Galinson and Jane Jones met with the Board. Mrs. Laforet announced that Phase II was almost complete. They had finished a successful Hartshorn Program and Sussy had done some school programs. Mr. Galinson mentioned that there was a $25,000 deficit in this year’s budget and to compensate for this they were going to increase fees from $65.00 to $80.00. The ’07 budget contained an omission of the Hartshorn Counselors which predated most of them on the Advisory Board. The $25,000 would be made up by the Town’s budget and revolving fund. Mr. Panasiti felt they did a remarkable job of budget balancing expenses vs. revenues. Hopefully with the new building, the revenue side would go up. Mr. Dinkel agreed – the bottom line subsidy of $25,000 was not that much considering all the families that benefit from it.
Mr. Galinson pointed out that their revenue was in one fiscal year and expenses in another fiscal year. Mr. Grella felt the fee structure seemed fair for the benefit of the citizens. Mr. Infanti’s concern was their new building and nothing was budgeted for electricity. Mr. Galinson commented that expenses would go up a little and revenues more. They still had to raise a considerable amount of money for Phase III. Mrs. Laforet added that they will not have occupancy in this budget year. Mr. Galinson mentioned that Reed had brought up the use of LUCT funds for Phase III. Mrs. Laforet remarked that basically the first two phases were done with donations and grant money. Mr. Bowler felt there should be some maintenance to the building even thought it is not occupied.
Robin Warren indicated he was at PMEC that afternoon. He asked what was the total amount raised for the building. He was told that $106,000 was raised for the first phase and $160,000 for Phase II. Mr. Warren remarked that if they had to teach students what PMEC is teaching them, it would cost more than the subsidy. This was not for them to propose but to react to how Phase III was going to be financed. Both Mrs. Laforet and Mr. Galinson indicated they were not prepared to discuss this yet, however, hoped to have final figures within two weeks. Mr. Panasiti indicated they will come back to the Selectmen with a final amount. PMEC and Recreation give back to the Town a revenue stream and are a basis of what the LUCT fund is all about as far as he was concerned – it was about land and about putting the money back into the Town with no tax burden on the residents.
Mr. Dinkel remarked that for him to get behind budgeting for public funds for Phase III, the projected FY08 budget should show expenses, an increase in revenue and show that PMEC is self-sustaining. Mr. Galinson agreed that if they were going to ask for public money, they should have a budget. Mr. Grella also agreed, appreciated all the work they have been doing and asked that they put facts and figures together. Mr. Bowler felt the same as Jay. They needed to be fair to the taxpayers and needed to have an idea of what potentially they were looking for down the line and having those figures would be a huge help. Mr. Warren asked why didn’t they do the same with Phase III as they had done with Phase II. Mrs. Laforet indicated they could, but it took them a long time to raise those funds. Mr. Bowler added they also received an anonymous grant, received a Bertha Roger’s Grant, etc. This was a different game and they will discuss this further on December 4. Ann Logan pointed out they had applied to PSNH for a $10,000 grant for their heating system.
Approve Recommendations & Sign
Abatements
After reviewing the appraisal dated October 1, 2006, on M/L 8-84, 5 Old Manchester Road and the requested abatement in the amount of $2257.72, Mr. Dinkel recommended it be deferred until additional information is received.
Mr. Dinkel moved to approve an abatement for $126.00, second by Mr. Infanti. Vote: Unanimous. This was for an overcharge on the first half tax bill for M/L 2-502-8, Mr. & Mrs. Robert Gile.
Mr. Dinkel moved to approve an abatement for $70.00, second by Mr. Infanti. Vote: Unanimous.
This was for an overcharge on the first half tax bill for M/L 11-16. Snow Brook Construction.
Mr. Dinkel moved to approve an abatement for $8.00, second by Mr. Infanti. Vote: Unanimous. This was for an overcharge on the first half tax bill for M/L 2-155, Mr. & Mrs. Robert Moister.
Mr. Dinkel moved to approve an abatement for $1356.00 for the Town of Amherst, second by Mr. Infanti. Vote: 0 in favor 5 opposed. Mr. Panasiti moved to table the abatement until they find out the details, if it was paid, when it was paid and who paid it, second by Mr. Dinkel. Vote: Unanimous.
The Board put on hold an abatement for M/L 12-23 WS Amherst Properties in the amount of $2610.00 for more information on the consolidation of two lots.
They also put on hold a request for an abatement for M/L 5-60-1 Barbara Enright in the amount of $494.75 to correct the first issue tax bill until they receive further information.
They put on hold a request for an abatement for M/L 8-77-35 Dynacom Development in the amount of $3,133.00 to correct the first issue tax bill until they receive further information.
Mr. Dinkel moved to approve an abatement of $627.04, second by Mr. Infanti. Vote: Unanimous. This was to correct the sketch as it appeared on the assessment card for M/L 6-28-11 Mr. & Mrs. Christopher Gagnon.
The request for an abatement for M/L 4-72 Scott Smith was put on hold to determine further the adjustment of $57,400 for an above ground pool.
Mr. Dinkel moved to approve an abatement of $103.57, second by Mr. Infanti. Vote: Unanimous. This was to correct a building sketch for M/L 25-69, Mr. & Mrs. Charles Pagliarulo.
Mr. Dinkel moved to approve adding a Veterans Credit, second by Mr. Infanti. Vote: Unanimous. This was for $300.00 for M/L 3-86-10 for Kenneth Mohler.
Mr. Dinkel moved to approve an abatement of $476.40, second by Mr. Infanti. This was to correct the topography issues for M/L 8-74, Marion Kanieniecki.
LUCT
Mr. Dinkel moved to release the land use change tax for M/L 11-5-3 KRP Concrete Floor Co., LLC in the amount of $16,000, second by Mr. Infanti. Vote: Unanimous.
Minutes
Mr. Infanti moved to accept the minutes of November 6, 2006, second by Mr. Grella amended as follows: Line 27 – Strike “Of the representation,” and insert “members” after “several” and insert “in the Concord ceremonies” after “present”; Line 59 – Change “had” to “has”. Vote: Unanimous.
Other Business
Mr. Infanti reported on the Planning Board meeting with people who were interested in serving on the Sounding Board for the Master Plan. This will be a major undertaking and taking a year or more to complete.
Mr. Grella reported he attended the Heritage Commission meeting last Thursday and they had requested $500.00 for office supplies and postage. He advised Will Ludt to contact Mr. MacGuire on the matter.
Mr. Panasiti reported Marilyn Peterman met with the Conservation Commission to talk about the Water District. She was seeking a member from the Commission to serve on this Board. There were several people interested, but wanted more information. Mr. Dinkel thought it wouldn’t hurt to have one of the Selectmen as backup. The members briefly discussed the upcoming issues with the Water District.
Mr. Bowler announced that the Amherst PTA was recommended as the Unit of the Year. He congratulated the PTA for a great job. Mr. Bowler also reported that the SRLD met to discuss their final budget. There was a potential for an $85,000 oversight that will affect Bruce Berry’s budget and the Town will be responsible for 43-44% of this because of the difference of their calendar year and the Town’s fiscal year. He advised he received an email from Ann Bergin looking to see if an organization would fund replacement lights on the Christmas Tree. It needs to have all new lights and the issue is, it is not a funded Town function. He also received a request from Eileen Cavallaro asking to hold a craft fair in the Town Hall. In the past they said no to the Souhegan Valley Quilters after receiving an opinion from Primex. He had some concern and believed they would be selling items. Personally he thought Mr. MacGuire should again check with Primex. Mr. Dinkel felt this was not an appropriate use for Town Hall. Mr. Bowler was fine with this.
Mr. MacGuire advised that the Greenwood Road bid package was in the “Read File”. He also reported on the status of 3 Norton Street. The Board signed the new P&S noting the amendments from the previous P&S.
Mr. Infanti moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:37 p.m., second by Mr. Dinkel. Vote: Unanimous.
Respectfully submitted,
Sharon L. Frydlo
Executive Assistant