To Print Specific Minutes - Cut and Paste - otherwise you may get many pages of minutes you didn't want.
Accepted as Printed: _____________
Accepted as Corrected: ___________
VERNON SELECTBOARD SPECIAL MEETING
August 18, 2008
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Robert Miller Jr. Sally Brassor Paul Cornell
Christiane Howe Tiffany Traverse Tom Hendricks
Michael Ball Tom Fox 6:54 David Walker 7:00
Michael Courtemanche Jonathan Hall 7:14 Victoria Hall 7:14
Annette Roydon Alex Dunklee 7:41 Frank Wetherby 8:15
OTHERS PRESENT:
Sandra Harris
Chairman Robert Miller called the meeting to order at 6:30 P.M. and led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag.
PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD
No public comment was forthcoming.
MINUTE APPROVAL
August 4, 2008
Corrections to be made:
MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF AUGUST 4, 2008 AS CORRECTED. Annette Roydon seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
TREASURER
BILLS AND WARRANTS
MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION TO RATIFY THE SALARY FOR THE ASSISTANT VAN DRIVER AS $12.00. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
The Recreation Director is researching the $186.00 bill that was questioned at the last meeting.
CHRIS HOWE MADE THE MOTION TO APPROVE THE FOLLOWING BILLS AND WARRANTS:
Mike Ball seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
MISCELLANEOUS
Treasurer Brassor requested a short executive session on a personnel/contractual matter.
ANNETTE ROYDON MADE THE MOTION FOR THE BOARD TO GO INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION ON PERSONNEL/CONTRACTUAL MATTERS THE DISCLOSURE OF AT THIS TIME WHICH MIGHT BE DETRIMENTAL TO THE TOWN AND/OR INDIVIDUALS INVOLVED. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
The executive session lasted from 6:45 to 6:54 when Chairman Miller stated that the Board had met in executive session and no action had been taken.
4-DAY WORK WEEK
Treasurer Brassor presented figures she had received from Green Mountain Power Corp. on savings the town could realize on electricity alone if the Town Office Building went to a 4-day work week as follows:
HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT
GAS CANOPY
Road Commissioner Walker distributed paperwork regarding engineering costs for the proposed gas canopy project. After discussion MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE LUMP SUM PILE FOUNDATION OPTION AS PRESENTED ON THE JULY 18, 2008 SCHEDULE OF FEES FOR $8,500.OO TO CHA. Chris Howe seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT
Emergency Management Director Annette Roydon presented the Agreement that was previously prepared by Al Chesley. There were two figures presented and research will be done to ascertain which is the correct Agreement .MICHAEL BALL MADE THE MOTION TO AUTHORIZE THE CHAIR TO SIGN THE CORRECT EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT 2008/2009 RERP BUDGET. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION TO TAKE A 5-MINUTE RECESS. Annette Roydon seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
POLICE DEPARTMENT – TOM HENDRICKS – INVESTIGATION CONCERNS
Mr. Hendricks apologized for taking up the Board’s time but expressed his concerns on what he has perceived as a lack of timely communication regarding five legal matters being handled by the Police Department, especially the matter of identity theft. Chairman Miller informed the Board and Mr. Hendricks that he, Mr. Miller, had met with Chief Turnley who indicated there were just a “couple things more to do and he will get it done in a timely fashion this time.”
Chris Howe expressed her displeasure in discussing a matter that concerns the Police Department without Chief Turnley being present.
Much discussion followed with the consensus reached by the Board that Chairman Miller will speak with Chief Turnley and request a separate communication be sent to Mr. Hendricks regarding the timeline and actions taken to resolve the identity issue since the other four were reported to be resolved.
ROUTE 142/FORT BRIDGMAN ROAD – LETTER REGARDING REPAVING WORK DONE
Noting that the work that was done was exemplary, some concerns raised were:
MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION TO AUTHORIZE THE CHAIRMAN TO SIGN THE LETTER ANNOTATING THE COMMENTS GIVEN. Annette Roydon seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
NESBITT’S PORTSIDE TAVERN – DECK EXPANSION REQUEST
CHRIS HOWE MADE THE MOTION TO INVITE MR. NESBITT TO MEET WITH THE BOARD AT THEIR NEXT MEETING TO DISCUSS THIS MATTER AND THE STEPS THEY WILL TAKE SO UNDERAGE PATRONS CANNOT ENTER THE DECK AREA. Mike Ball seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
FIRE CHIEF TOM FOX – LETTER OF CONCERN FORM AUGUST 4TH MEETING
Jon Hall noted that not all the company Board members could be here and requested postponement until the first meeting in September.
Mike Ball reported that meetings held to date have gone well with give and take on both sides.
ANNETTE ROYDEN MADE THE MOTION TO POSTPONE ACTION ON THE LETTER OF CONCERN UNTIL THE FIRST MEETING IN SEPTEMBER. Mike Ball seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
TRASH/RECYCLING/MISCELLANEOUS TRASH ISSUES
Items discussed included:
NEW/UNFINISHED BUSINESS
ADJOURNMENT
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ADJOURN. Mike Ball seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
The meeting adjourned at 8:38
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Accepted as Printed: _____________
Accepted as Corrected: ___________
VERNON SELECTBOARD SPECIAL MEETING
August 4, 2008
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Robert Miller Jr. Sally Brassor Frank Wetherby
Christiane Howe David Andrews Tom Hendricks
Michael Ball Jon Hall Tom Fox
Michael Courtemanche John Wheelden Todd Capen
Annette Roydon J J Wheelden Tiffany Traverse
Bruce Gauld Carolyn Longergan
OTHERS PRESENT: Krystal Merithew David Williams
Travis Sargent Victoria Hall LeighAnn Hall
Timothy Call Alex Dunklee Mario Buisa
Chris Kempf Michael Slyk Chris Hilton
Chris Garofolo Ed Sleeper Mike Pratt 7:45
Latisha Akley Andrew King Lester Whitaker
Sandra Harris
Chairman Robert Miller called the meeting to order at 6:36 P.M. and led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag
PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD
No public comment was forthcoming.
MINUTE APPROVAL
May 19, 2008
MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF MAY 19, 2008 AS WRITTEN. 2008 Chris Howe seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
July 11, 2008
It was noted that the meeting adjourned at 7:05 not 9:05. MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF JULY 11, 2008 AS CORRECTED. Annette Roydon seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
July 28, 2008
MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF JULY 28, 2008 AS WRITTEN. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
TREASURER
BILLS AND WARRANTS
Mike Ball noted that Warrant #3-S/G had a bill from Keene Sign Works that was $186.00 in excess of the bid amount and requested that this bill be pulled from the Warrant until clarification is obtained from the Recreation Board/Department. CHRIS HOWE MADE THE MOTION TO APPROVE THE FOLLOWING BILLS AND WARRANTS:
Annette Roydon seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
MISCELLANEOUS
Treasurer Brassor received a letter from the Agency of Transportation requesting review and approval/acceptance of the repaving work done on Route 142. The letter was given to Chairman Miller for action later by the Board.
FIRE DEPARTMENT S.O.P’S
Fire Chief Tom Fox distributed proposed membership S.O.P.’s to Board members and explained proposed articles listed. Chief Fox will submit the final copy of this S.O.P. to Attorney Carroll.
In response to a question from the floor regarding whether or not all the present members of the Fire Company would be grandfathered into the Fire Department or if they would have to apply, it was stated that all members in good standing at the time of transition to the municipal Fire Department (projected to be September 1, 2008) would become members of the Fire Department.
Discussion followed.
LETTER OF AGREEMENT FOR COMPUTER APPRAISAL SERVICES
MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION TO APPROVE THE LETTER OF AGREEMENT FOR COMPUTER APPRAISAL SERVICES FOR THE SUM OF $192.28 TO ENABLE THE VERNON LISTERS TO USE THE MARSHALL AND SWIFT COST TABLES UNTIL JUNE 30, 2009, AND AUTHORIZE THE CHAIRMAN TO SIGN SAID LETTER. Chris Howe seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
HARRY SNYDER CONTRACT
MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION THAT THE BOARD APPROVE THE PROPOSAL OF HARRY SNYDER OF PROFESSIONALS IN TUNE LLC FOR THE FOLLOWING:
Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION TO HAVE A LETTER TO MR. SNYDER DRAFTED AND SIGNED BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD’S APPROVAL AND AUTHORIZATION TO DO THE WORK. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
ANNETTE ROYDON MADE THE MOTION TO TAKE THE FIRE DEPARTMENT TRUSTEES OUT OF ORDER AND TAKE FIRE COMPANY CONCERNS NEXT. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED. Mike Ball clarified that it was the request of three individuals regarding their suspension from the Fire Department and not a Fire Company concern.
MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION TO TAKE A 5 MINUTES RECESS. Chris Howe seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
FIRE COMPANY CONCERNS
J J WHEELDEN
While Mr. Wheelden requested an executive session the Board indicated it would start in open session and enter executive session if it was warranted. Much discussion followed which included, but was not limited to, the following regarding his suspension from the Fire Department:
After much discussion MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION THAT THE BOARD RESCIND THE SUSPENSION AND DIRECT THE TRUSTEES TO WORK WITH THE FIRE CHIEF TO TALK THIS OVER AND THEN DECIDE WHAT THE PUNISHMENT SHOULD BE. With no second forthcoming the motion died
More discussion followed.
ANNETTE ROYDON MADE THE MOTION THAT THE SUSPENSION REMAINS AS IS AS DIRECTED BY CHIEF FOX AND THAT THE OFFICERS OF THE FIRE COMPANY MEET WITH CHIEF FOX AND TRY TO DEAL WITH THIS THEMSELVES, ALL THREE, TIFFANY, TODD AND JJ. With no second forthcoming this motion also died.
Much more discussion followed with the feasibility of immediately going to a municipal fire department being raised. The Board was informed that the S.O.P.’s are in the works and will continue to be “tweaked” for years to come. The only critical S.O.P. that needs some input from the Board at this time is the “membership s.o.p.” Discussion followed. The Board stressed they wanted to do what was best for the Town and the people that belong to the Fire personnel.
Much more discussion followed.
ANNETTE ROYDON MADE THE MOTION TO FORM A MUNCIIPAL FIRE DEPARTMENT EFFECTIVE TONIGHT. Chris Howe seconded the motion. Bob Miller recused himself. Mike Ball expressed his concerns with the lack of “building community” and encouraged the motion be defeated. Mike Courtemanche noted he felt the same way and referenced the goal of the Fire Department research committee, which included Mr. Pratt and Mr. Hall as well as Chief Fox among the membership, that the two sides would work together to hold ownership of the Fire Department However since that time it has become apparent this was not happening and the two sides have drifted further apart. There’s a lack of respect in the chain of command and firefighters from other fire departments have expressed it as well. Mike Courtemanche went on to state that he felt holding off will only cause the rift to grow. THE MOTION CARRIED WITH 3 AYES AND 1 NAY AND 1 ABSTENTION.
Noting that there were “a lot of good people in this room and a lot of good people that you want to stay,” CHRIS HOWE MADE THE MOTION THAT ALL FIRE COMPANY MEMBERS STAY AS FIRE MEN AND WOMEN ON THE DEPARTMENT PENDING BACKGROUND CHECKS AND THAT THE CHIEF THROW OUT THE SUSPENSIONS AS A GOOD WILL GESTURE AND ALL START FROM NEW FROM THIS DAY FORWARD AND WORK TOGETHER AS A TEAM. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. Mike Ball suggested waiting until the next meeting. THE MOTION CARRIED WITH 3 AYES and Chief Fox welcomed the fire personnel back (applause followed).
ANNETTE MADE THE MOTION TO HAVE A RECESS. Chris Howe seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED. The meeting reconvened at 8:40
FIRE DEPARTMENT – TRUSTEES – CONCERNS RE: CHIEF
Chris Howe suggested that, in light of the municipal department and the Chief’s act of good will that the Trustees might be willing to drop the matter as well. Mike Pratt will speak to the other Trustees and members as well as the Chief and if the matters cannot be resolved will bring the matter back to the Board.
Other matters discussed were:
ANNETTE MADE THE MOTION THAT THE SCHEDULED DISCUSSION FOR THE FIRE DEPARTMENT/TRUSTEES/ RE: CHIEF BE POSTPONED IF NEEDED, UNTIL AUGUST 18TH AT THE NEXT REGULARLY SCHEDULED SELECTBOARD MEETING. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
NEW/UNFINISHED BUSINESS
OATH – POLICE DEPARTMENT
MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION TO APPROVE JASON O’BRIANS AFFIRMATION OF OATH AS POLICE OFFICER. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. He will fill the part time position. THE MOTION CARRIED.
REAPPRAISAL
Mike Courtemanche announced that the Listers have finished the town wide reappraisal and the “Notice to Taxpayers Change in Appraisal of Real Estate” pamphlets should be received this week.
VLCT TOWN FAIR
The annual VLCT Town Fair will be held on October 2nd and the consensus of the Board was to have Mike Courtemanche serve as the voting member for Vernon.
Both Mike Courtemanche and Chris Howe will be attending from the Board.
FRANK JOHNSON
Chris Howe, speaking for the Board, wished Frank Johnson Sr. a “happy birthday.”
ROUTE 142 – FT BRIDGMAN RD
Frank Wetherby commended the work recently completed on Route 142 and Representative Patricia O’Donnell was publicly thanked for getting the project done. One of the places that still need guardrails placed is the ravine on the east side of Route 142 just past Newton Road where accidents have happened in the past.
Road Commissioner Walker and the Road Crew were publicly thanked for mowing the grass recently planted at the northern end of Governor Hunt Rd. Fire Chief Fox thanked them as well for the power sweeping at the Fire Station.
FIRE DEPARTMENT
MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION TO GO INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION WITH DAVE ANDREWS AND CHIEF FOX ON A CONTRACTUAL/SAFETY ISSUE AT THE FIRE DEPARTMENT THE DISCLOSURE OF AT THIS TIME WHICH MIGHT BE DETRIMENTAL TO THE TOWN OR FIRE DEPARTMENT ITESELF. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
The executive session lasted from 9:14 to 9:29 when Chairman Miller stated that the Board had met in executive session and no action had been taken.
MEDIA
Chris Garofolo wished the Town of Vernon good luck with the Fire Department issues and asked and received a brief statement from the Board on what had let up to this point.
FIRE DEPARTMENT
CHRIS HOWE MADE THE MOTION THAT THE BOARD APPROVE THE SCOPE OF WORK PRESENTED FOR THE REPAIRS AT THE FIRE STATION FOR A SUM NOT TO EXCEED $12,000.00, SAID FUNDS TO COME FROM THE EMERGENCY CAPITAL RESERVE FUND. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
ADJOURNMENT
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ADJOURN. Annette Roydon seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
The meeting adjourned at 9:32 P.M.
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Accepted as Printed: _____________
Accepted as Corrected: ___________
VERNON SELECTBOARD SPECIAL MEETING
July 28, 2008
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Robert Miller Jr. David Andrews Eleanor Allen 6:26
Christiane Howe John Wheelden 6:26 J J Wheelden 6:26
Michael Ball Tiffany Traverse 6:26 Chris Kempf 6:26
Michael Courtemanche Jon Hall 6:32
Annette Roydon Sandra Harris
Chairman Robert Miller called the meeting to order at 6:03 P.M. and led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag
PUBLIC COMMENT
David Andrews asked if any member of the Selectboard had sent any communications to any other Board member with directions not to share the information. Selectman Ball indicated he sent such a communication one time to the Chairman regarding an executive session matter, said information was subsequently shared with the entire Board. Discussion followed. Mr. Andrews felt that the previous Board had a policy of not taking such steps. The Board members felt that it was appropriate as Mr. Ball stated.
Annette Roydon announced the Rescue Board meeting on August 14th with area towns and their request for a volunteer from the Vernon Selectboard to attend. Selectboard member Roydon will be Vernon’s representative to said meeting.
JOB DESCRIPTIONS
Chris Howe reviewed the changes made as requested at the last meeting and presented more job descriptions for review with the balance to be reviewed at a special meeting on August 11th.
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO TAKE A 5 TO 10 MINUTES BREAK. Chris Howe seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
The meeting reconvened and letters were received from Tiffany Traverse, Jonathan Hall, and Michael Pratt for Board discussion at their regular meeting on August 4th.
NEW/UNFINISHED BUSINESS
RETURNABLES AT THE RECYLE BINS
It was noted that the recycle bins at the Town Highway Garage are overflowing and discussion on how to rectify this situation followed with no conclusions reached.
ADJOURNMENT
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ADJOURN. Mike Ball seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
The meeting adjourned at 8:50
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Accepted as Printed: _____________
Accepted as Corrected: ___________
VERNON SELECTBOARD SPECIAL MEETING
July 21, 2008
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Robert Miller Jr. Sally Brassor Chris Garofloo
Christiane Howe David Andrews Mario Buisa
Michael Ball James Cronan Tom Fox 6:30
Michael Courtemanche Tom Hendricks 7:24 Jon Hall 7:24
Annette Roydon Carol Hammond 7:24 Tiffany Traverse 7:24
Phyllis Newton 7:24 J J Wheelden 7:24
Sandra Harris
Chairman Robert Miller called the meeting to order at 6:06 P.M. and led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag
PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD
No public comment was forthcoming. Chairman Miller stated that “Public Comment” had been moved to the beginning of the meeting as a result of excessive public input during regular meeting time. The public will not be allowed to speak during the rest of the meeting unless individually recognized by the Chairman.
MINUTE APPROVAL
July 7th
Under the Recreation Center repairs, the minutes need to reflect “said monies to come from the Emergency Capital Reserve Fund” in the motion that was made approving the repairs.
July 14th
Chris Howe noted the need to correct the following:
MICHAEL BALL MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE MINUTES OF JULY 7TH AND JULY 14TH AS CORRECTED. Annette Roydon seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
TREASURER
BILLS AND WARRANTS
CHRIS HOWE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT WARRANTS #2 S/G; #29-S; and #30-S. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
SALARY SCALE
A meeting between Mike Ball, Chris Howe, Sally Brassor, and Harry Snyder of Professionals in Tune, LLC regarding the proposed updating of the salary scale resulted in the following:
The Board will make a decision after receiving further information from Mr. Snyder who will contact Chris Howe and Mike Ball via email.
CARRY OVER MONIES
Requests for money to be carried over were received and it was noted that the excess Highway Funds have to be carried over by Statute.
CHRIS HOWE MADE THE MOTION TO HOLD OVER THE FOLLOWING MONIES FROM THE 07/08 BUDGET:
Michael Ball seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
POLICE AUDIT
James Cronan of James Cronan & Associates met with the Board regarding the audit of the Police Department.
FIRE DEPARTMENT
PUBLIC SAFETY
MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION THAT THE BOARD ENTER INTO AN EXECUTIVE SESSION WITH CHIEF FOX ON A SECURITY AND PUBLIC SAFETY ISSUE, THE DISCLOSURE OF AT THIS TIME WHICH MIGHT BE DETRIMENTAL TO THE TOWN AND/OR THE FIRE DEPARMTMENT. Chris Howe seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
The executive session lasted from 6:47 to 7:24 when Chairman Miller stated that the Board had met in executive session and no action had been taken.
CHRIS HOWE MADE THE MOTION THAT THE BOARD TAKE A 10-MINUTE BREAK. Annette Roydon seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
The meeting reconvened at 7:35.
JOB DESCRIPTIONS
Chris Howe presented proposed job descriptions for Board input utilizing the EOC’s laptop and LCD projector. When the job descriptions are finalized a hard copy will be available in the Town Clerk’s Office.
NEW/UNFINISHED BUSINESS
OUTSIDE CONSUMPTION PERMIT
The Town Clerk presented an Outside Consumption Permit for Nesbitt’s Portside Tavern. The request is to expand the outside deck area. The Board expressed concerns regarding Vt. State law and will research this matter and address it at a later date.
GRANGE SCHOLARSHIP
Mike Ball will serve as the Selectboard member for the Grange Scholarship Committee.
LIBRARY TRUSTEE
MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION TO APPOINT CAROL RICHARDSON AS LIBRARY TRUSTEE FOR THE ENSUING YEAR – Chris Howe seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
TOWN FOREST
Mike Ball will contact VLCT regarding the Town’s liability if the woodlots are re-opened this year.
ADJOURNMENT
MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION TO ADJOURN. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
The meeting adjourned at 9:20 P.M.
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Accepted as Printed: _____________
Accepted as Corrected: ___________
VERNON SPECIAL SELECTBOARD MEETING
July 14, 2008
MEMBERS PRESENT OTHERS
Robert Miller Jr. – Chairman Christine Fredricks
Michael Courtemanche Kathy Halvey
Mike Ball
Christiane Howe
Absent – Annette Roydon
Chairman Robert Miller called the meeting to order at 5:30pm and following the Pledge of Allegiance, welcomed those present.
LIBRARY SERVER REQUEST
Christine explained to the board that library trustees were not aware that they needed to get additional bids, because Bill Vermouth has been servicing the server they have and the trustees just assumed that they could continue with him. The library trustees would like to ask that the Selectboard allow them to continue with the purchase of the server. Christine stated that the trustees feel they can trust Bill’s bid and would like accept it. Christine explained that Bill Vermouth had put in a higher bid back in March of $12,782.00 but is now $10,782.00 the difference is because of changes in pricing. Much discussion followed on why the library wanted to go with Bill Fermouth.
Mike Ball stated that because we are the fiduciary trustees is because there is a bill policy we need to be absolutely sure that on the big ticketed we are not paying more then what is reasonable and also that you have double checked this pricing. Christine and Kathy assured the board that they had checked. They continued by saying that they understood and appreciated why the Selectboard had a bid policy and we don’t ask for this lightly. They felt that because Bill Vermouth was familiar with the set up at the Library they would like to stay with him.
Mike Courtemanche asked how old the server was. Christine explained that they had put the request for the new server on the Capital Plan 3 years ago and explained that the town at town meeting had raised $5,000.00 for each of those 3 years leaving a balance in the Capital Plan of $15,000.00 for the new server so they have actually asked for less then.
The old server is at least 6 years old. Mike C. asked what Bill was going to do with the old server. The answer was they were unsure. Mike C. also asked in what shape was the old server and Kathy explained that the memory was upgraded a while ago but now has begun to give the Librarian some trouble.
Chris Howe asked if this server was just for the computer that the Librarian uses or was it serving all computers in the Library. Kathy explained that it supports and backs up all the computers.
Mike Courtemanche explained that he had built a server like this for a price comparison but found that Bill Vermouth was very close to what others would charge. He felt that Bill Vermouth’s pricing was reasonable. Mike C. stated that it is often important in the world of technology that you remain loyal to the venders that you work with because they do know your system and are willing to come down and help you in the middle of the night and because of that, I can go along with this proposal.
MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE PROPOSAL PROVIDED BY VERMOUTH TO THE LIBRARY TURSTEES AND FIX THE COST AS IT STATES IN THE PROPOSAL STATES AND ADD IN A LITTLE MORE THEN 50%, AS FAR AS THE ESTIMATED LABOR CHARGES SO THAT THE TOTAL AMOUNT FOR THE SERVER SHALL NOT EXCEED $12,000.00. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED WITH 4 AYES.
The Chairman, Bob Miller, will email the Treasurer to let her know that this was approved. Kathy and Christine thank the board. Bob Miller thanked them for coming.
Chris Howe asked the board if we could work on setting board goal and board performance next meeting and asked Bob Miller, Chairman if that could be put onto the agenda under New/Unfinished Business. Chris also explained that “if time allows” would be place on the agenda. Bob felt that it would be ok and asked the rest of the board and all said yes. Chris gave everyone post-it so that all could put their goals on them then we, as a board could prioritize them.
Chris Howe brought up that Sally had noticed that the motion for the Recreation Department repairs did not include that it was coming from the Emergency Capital Reserve Fund. Chris mentioned that she made the motion and thought for sure she had included it. It will be brought up next meeting.
Chris Howe also mentioned that Sally had brought up about the monies that would be held over and that each department head needs to bring that before the board for a motion. Mike Ball will email Sally a note to put in each department head’s mail box that they have until Monday July 21, 2008 to get there request in. This would be the cut off date. Next meeting on July 21, 2008 will start at 6:00pm.
ADJOURNMENT
MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION TO ADJOURN. Chris Howe Seconded. Meeting Adjourned at 6:00pm.
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Accepted as Printed: _____________
Accepted as Corrected: ___________
VERNON SELECTBOARD SPECIAL MEETING
July 11, 2008
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Robert Miller Jr.
Christiane Howe
Michael Ball
Michael Courtemanche
MEMBERS ABSENT:
Annette Roydon Sandra Harris
Chairman Robert Miller called the meeting to order at 6:02 P.M. and led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag.
The Board announced that, although Police Chief Turnley had been invited, he had chosen not to attend this meeting of the Board. Chief Turnley had been provided with copies of the requests of the proposals.
A letter from Attorney Richard Carroll was read regarding this matter.
MICHAEL BALL MADE THE MOTION THAT THE BOARD AUTHORIZE AN AUDIT OF THE POLICE DEPARTMENT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SCOPE WRITTEN UP BY ATTORNEY RICHARD CARROLL. Chris Howe seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED WITH 4 AYES.
CHRISTIANE HOWE MADE THE MOTION TO HIRE JAMES CRONAN AND ASSOCIATES TO CONDUCT THE AUDIT OF THE POLICE DEPARTMENT FOR THE PRICE NOT TO EXCEED $7,000.00. Michael Courtemanche seconded the motion. Mr. Cronin has indicated he will be able to start within a week of notification of authorization. Discussion followed. THE MOTION CARRIED WITH 4 AYES and a “thank you” to Christiane Howe for “all the leg work” she had done.
MICHAEL BALL MADE THE MOTION TO HAVE THE BOARD’S SECRETARY DRAFT A LETTER OF ACCEPTANCE TO MR. CRONAN FOR THE CHAIRMAN TO SIGN. Michael Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
MISCELLANEOUS
MICHAEL BALL MADE THE MOTION TO AUTHORIZE THE CHAIRMAN TO SIGN LETTERS OF AUTHORIZATION FOR MR. CRONAN. Chris Howe seconded the motion. Mr. Cronan will draft the letters and present them to Chairman Miller so they can move forward. THE MOTION CARRIED.
ADJOURNMENT
MICHAEL COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ADJOURN. Chris Howe seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
The meeting adjourned at 9:05 P.M.
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Accepted as Printed: _____________
Accepted as Corrected: ___________
VERNON SELECTBOARD MEETING
July 7, 2008
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Robert Miller Jr. Bill Gilbert Joyce Goodnow
Christiane Howe Seth Deyo Georgia Boyce
Michael Ball Ian Deyo Sally Brassor
Michael Courtemanche Tom Fox Paul Cornell
Eleanor Allen Nancy Durborow
MEMBERS ABSENT: Andrew King David Andrews
Annette Roydon Latisha Akley Marylynn Scherlin
Frank Wetherby 7:00 Kevin Turnley 7:08
OTHERS PRESENT: Tom Hendricks 7:14 Cindy Turnley 7:08
Tim Call 7:52 Todd Capen 7:52 Mario Buisa 7:52
Tiffany Traverse 7:52 Joe McNary 7:52 Jon Hall 7:52
Carolyn Lonergan 7:52 J J Wheelden 7:52
Sandra Harris
Chairman Robert Miller called the meeting to order at 5:32 at the Recreation Center to view the needed repairs discovered after a lightening strike. Following inspection and discussion MICHAEL BALL MADE THE MOTION TO ENDORSE THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE RECREATION DIRECTOR FOR THE REPAIRS AT THE POOL. Michael Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
CHRIS HOWE MADE THE MOTION TO CAP THE MONIES TO BE SPENT ON REPAIRS APPROVED AT $16,000.00. Michael Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
MICHAEL BALL MADE THE MOTION TO RECESS THE BOARD MEETING TO THE TOWN OFFICE BUILDING. Chris Howe seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED. The meeting was recessed and reconvened at 6:30 with a welcome to those present and the Pledge of Allegiance.
MINUTE APPROVAL
JUNE 16, 2008
The following corrections were made:
David Walker was inadvertently left out of “others present.”
Page 2: - Michael Ball stated that the Board’s budget included the COLA raises.
Page 3: under “Sak Road” – it should read “Steve Jerome” not “Steve Zaluzny”
Page 4: - under Job Descriptions – Chris Howe said. “it says under the Selectboard Secretary that this is an hourly position.”
Page 5: - paragraph 1: Chris clarified that she had looked through the minutes for where it was changed but had not found it. Annette Roydon said the Board had talked about it but never voted on it.
Page 10: - regarding the statutes – Michael Ball stated the decision was not because they could be accessed on the web, but because they were available in the Town Clerk’s Office. They are also available on the web.
MICHAEL COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE MINUTES AS CORRECTED. Michael Ball seconded the motion and added the following correction: Page 7: paragraph 1: “pre-probationary: should be changed to “probationary.” THE MOTION CARRIED.
TREASURER
BILLS & WARRANTS
CHRIS HOWE MADE THE MOTION TO APPROVE THE FOLLOWING BILLS AND WARRANTS: #1 S/G; 27-S; 280S AND RATIFY 28 S/G AND 26/S. Michael Ball seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
MISCELLANEOUS
Grange Scholarship
Treasurer Brassor reminded the Board that the Grange Scholarship needs to be awarded in July.
Certificates of Insurance
A workers compensation audit has been done on the Town and it was noted that when the Treasurer issues a 1099 to an individual without a certificate of insurance on file, that individual then would be included in the Town’s worker’s compensation insurance. Sally asked that the Board add the requirement of proof of (certificate of) insurance when awarding bids. This will also be brought up at the Department Head’s meeting on Wednesday.
CEMETERY COMMITTEE
Cemetery Committee member Marylynn Scherlin met with the Board and presented three projects for approval. The funding for these projects will come from the individual cemetery funds and not from the budget.
NORTH CEMETERY FENCE EXPANSION
Four different entities were contacted but only one bid: Springfield Fence for $11,487.00. MICHAEL BALL MADE THE MOTION TO AWARD THE BID FOR THE EXPANSION OF THE NORTH CEMETERY FENCE TO SPRINGFIELD FENCE COMPANY INC. FOR THE SUM NOT TO EXCEED $11,487.00 PER THEIR BID. Michael Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
TYLER CEMETERY FENCE PAINTING
Only two bids were received of those contacted and one withdrew their bid prior to the Cemetery Committee’s reviewing of the bids (it was the higher of the two). MICHAEL BALL MADE THE MOTION TO AWARD THE BID FOR THE PAINTING OF THE TYLER CEMETERY FENCE PER SPECIFICATIONS TO WALTER MOMANEY PAINTING FOR A SUM NOT TO EXCEED $5,290.00. Michael Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
NEW STORAGE SHED AT TYLER CEMETERY
Marylynn reviewed the sheds the Committee had looked at and presented the Committee’s choice. This structure will be used to store flags and miscellaneous items for the cemetery caretaking. MICHAEL BALL MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE CEMETERY COMMITTEE’S RECOMMENDATION AND PURCHASE THE CEMETERY SHED FROM HOME DEPOT FOR THE SUM OF $2,456.00. Michael Courtemanche seconded the motion. It was noted that this price includes delivery and set up. THE MOTION CARRIED.
MISCELLANEOUS
In her role of Delinquent Tax Collector, Marylynn Scherlin reported that in February there was $102,000.00 in outstanding taxes and, as of today there is $41,000.00.
TOWN PICNIC – UPDATE
Town Picnic Committee Chair Georgia Boyce reported that the picnic part of the Town Picnic went off as scheduled with 12 Penny Carnival Booths, VY supplied clowns, face painting, balloons, and a raffle. The fireworks were rained out but have been re-scheduled for July 12th starting at 9:20. Georgia thanked Tom Fox, David Andrews and Bob Miller for their work on the fireworks. She also extended thanks to the Board members for their help as well as the Committee members who worked hard on the Picnic.
It was noted that Cookie Allen and Chris Howe were left off the roster of Town Picnic Committee members and that Penny Croke had resigned prior to the Picnic.
Chris Howe thanked Georgia Boyce and Joyce Goodnow for their excellent job, noting that everyone she has spoken with was pleased with the fabulous picnic.
LESTER WHITAKER – CANON REQUEST FOR THE FIREWORKS
Chairman Miller presented the request of Lester Whitaker to be allowed to set off his canon (no canon balls) at the fireworks scheduled for the 12th. After much discussion and conferring with the Police Chief, it was decided that Chief Turnley would supply a radio to a member of the Picnic Committee who would be with Mr. Whitaker at his residence. When it was time to start the fireworks they will radio Lester and his canon’s blast will be the signal to start the fireworks. It will be heard at the Recreation Area with no problem and by doing it at his own residence it released the Town form any perceived liability.
CHRIS HOWE MADE THE MOTION TO TAKE A 5-MINUTE BREAK. Michael Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
The break lasted from 7:09 to 7:14 P.M.
POLICE DEPARTMENT – CHIEF KEVIN TURNLEY
The Board presented two proposals they had received for an independent study of the workings of the Police Department: One from VLCT for $9,925.00 and one from Mr. J. Cronan for $7,000.00.
Much discussion followed which included where the funding would come from, and why the Board felt an audit was needed. The Board members stressed it was their desire to stop the rumors around Town regarding the Police Department and give both the Board and the Police Chief clear data regarding the Department’s strengths and weaknesses. The Board members stressed that there was nothing personal in having the audit done, it was strictly to illuminate areas that needed to be addressed and areas that were fine.
Much more discussion followed and the Board gave Chief Turnley a copy of the scope of the audit and tabled action at this time.
TODD CAPEN – FIRE CHIEF CONCERNS/COMPLAINT
Todd Capen met with the Board regarding a complaint he had about Fire Chief Fox and asked the Board if they thought it needed to be done in executive session. After conferring amongst themselves and with Chief Fox and Mr. Capen it was decided to hear the complaint in open session.
Mr. Capen’s complaint was about an incident where Chief Fox was filling a pool in Town with the help of some Explorers, and when he returned Mr. Capen noticed that he had two Explorers plus himself in a fire engine that had only 2 seatbelts.
When asked if he had presented his concerns to the Chief, Todd stated he had not because he did not feel comfortable speaking to him.
Chairman Miller asked Fire Chief Fox if he had done as reported and Chief Fox stated, “Yes, I did.”
When asked to tell his side of the event he noted that he and his daughter (an Explorer) were going to fill a pool and two other Explorers expressed interest in accompanying them. Chief Fox explained that there were only 2 seatbelts and one of the Explorers asked if they could get a ride from a parent could they participate. Chief Fox assured them they could and that is what happened. However one of the Explorer’s parents picked their child up which left 2 Explorers there when the pool was filled. Chief Fox stated he did not feel comfortable leaving one of the Explorers alone while he returned to the station so took them both in the truck. He did it for safety reasons, noting the Amber alert that had just gone out and the subsequent findings of that case.
Discussion was held on how he could have gotten backup to pick up the second individual, the lack of reporting this through the chain of command, either to the Chief or the President of the Fire Company, etc. Chairman Miller had heard the story earlier and had been satisfied with Chief Fox’s explanation.
The Board thanked Todd for bringing his concerns before them.
FIRE DEPARTMENT SOP’S.
Fire Chief Fox and David Andrews went over the draft of the SOP’s to date for the Municipal Fire Department. Those that are warranted will be forwarded to Attorney Carroll. Some of the sections went beyond what is in the Town’s Personnel Policy which needs to be updated. Much discussion was held on the SOP’s and the proposed revisions made and not made. Chief Fox will re-write those that need re-writing, present the appropriate documentation to Attorney Carroll and bring the final draft back to the Board at which time it will be attached to the minutes.
TOWN CLERK
CEMETERY DEED
The Town Clerk presented the deed and CHRIS HOWE MADE THE MOTION TO APPROVE AND SIGN THE DEED FOR LOT #49A, SITE A IN NORTH CEMETERY TO SANDRA HOULE. Michael Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
The deed was signed and returned to the Town Clerk
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
TRASH
Michael Ball reported that Triple T indicated that less trash had been put out for collection on Thursday, although some are still not recycling. Ways to encourage everyone to recycle were discussed. A listing of residents that are offenders by not recycling will be compiled and those individuals spoken to. It was also noted that trash that is not in compliance will not be picked up.
Another flier will be placed in the Town’s August Newspaper. At least one resident in the room indicated they did not get the newspaper delivered to their home.
It was also noted that when the money for rubbish pick up runs out (since it too was cut in the budget cuts), then no more trash will be picked up.
Much discussion followed.
The Board will review Triple-T’s present contract at a later date.
It was noted that the Planet Aid boxes had been overflowing for a significant period of time. Michael Courtemanche will research how to rectify this situation.
COMCAST
Chris Howe referenced a letter the Board received from Comcast in June which has yet to be acted upon. Comcast was asking if they could meet with the Board. Discussion on whether or not Comcast had complied with the requirement placed on Adelphia to phase in the whole town followed. (They have not).
Michael Ball suggested that people with comments or concerns regarding Comcast and their service (e.g. if they are not able to view the Selectboard meetings) contact the Board’s secretary so the Board will know if there are issues that need to be discussed with a Comcast representative. It was noted that the Board had refused to sign a letter last year for Comcast because the whole Town was not being covered.
Michael Courtemanche informed the Board that, since the moving of the camera and the new layout of the Selectboard room, the complaints about not being able to see the Board meetings have ceased. However Comcast does have an engineer on standby to look into this problem if someone does have a problem.
Michael Courtemanche will research the question of the franchise for Comcast and the coverage of the Town and report back to the Board.
APPOINTMENTS
Nancy Durborow noted that her husband had yet to be contacted regarding serving on the Conservation Committee. Chairman Miller said he would take care of it this week.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Georgia Boyce noted that the department head’s had been asked to cut their budgets yet the Selectboard was purchasing new tables for the Selectboard room and asked for clarification. The Board explained that the monies came from last year’s budget and the Board needed to be able to see each other during a meeting. The present set up was not working for them. Much discussion followed.
ADJOURNMENT
MICHAEL COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ADJOURN. Chris seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
The meeting adjourned at 9:49 P.M.
*****************************************************************************************************************
Accepted as Printed: _____________
Accepted as Corrected: ___________
VERNON SELECTBOARD MEETING
JUNE 16, 2008
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Robert Miller Jr Cindy Turnley 7:50 David Rinfret 7:20
Mike Ball Kevin Turnley 7:50 Nancy Durborow
Michael Courtemanche Tom Hendricks Sr.
Chris Howe David Andrews Eleanor Allen
Annette Roydon Sally Brassor Tom Fox 7:25 PM Frank Wetherby Tom Hendricks Jr.
Susan Miller
At 6:30 PM Chair Robert Miller called the meeting to order and following the Pledge of Allegiance welcomed those present:
MINUTE(S) APPROVAL
June 02, 2008 - Page 2 Fire Department up-date should read “Town Counsel “
Page 4 should say “Rescue 1 not available “
Page 6 “Tires not tire”.
CHRIS HOWE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE MINUTES OF JUNE 2, 2008 WITH CORRECTIONS MADE. Mike Ball seconded. MOTION PASSED.
TREASURER – Bills and Warrants
Chris Howe expressed concern with the SS Auto bill, that there was a discrepancy in the figures of the bid and the actual bill figures. Chairman Miller explained that there was an unseen problem with removing a bolt and that accounted for the extra. MIKE BALL MADE A MOTION TO PAY THE NEW AMOUNT OF $2973.48 TO SS AUTO FOR THE WORK DONE TO THE DODGE DAKOTA PICK-UP TRUCK. Chris Howe seconded. MOTION PASSED.
CHRIS HOWE MADE THE MOTION TO APPROVE AND SIGN THE FOLLOWING BILLS AND WARRANTS: #27SG; #24S; AND #25S. Mike Ball seconded. MOTION PASSED.
Update on Grid Research –
Treasurer Brassor stated she had spoken with Larry Lanata about the payroll grid project and he said he wasn’t at all interested and gave Sally Joe Little’s name from Park Place Financial and Joe Myers name from Pieciak & Co. Joe Little is not interested and Joe Myer did not return her call.
Sally stated she had contacted VLCT about the project and they said at this time they
were short staffed; however, June 25th they are bringing on a new person who could do this. It would take a couple of months to bring the new person on board. Joe Little gave Sally a company’s name out of Boston, Olney Associates (John Butzel) and VLCT recommended Harry Snyder from Professionals In-Tune out of Burlington Vermont. Sally has contacted both companies and informed them as to what the town is looking for, and has e-mailed them 2 spreadsheets of our employees pay and where they are on the grid to date, the newest grid and also the grid from 1993. Sally told them she would like them to have an initial meeting with the board and the employees, and also to come and interview employees about their jobs to get a feel and understanding about each position.
Treasurer Brassor reminded the board that they awarded the employees the COLA raise for this year starting July 1st and asked if it is the Board’s pleasure to implement these on July 1st rather than wait for the pay-grid to be compiled and approved. Mike Ball felt that the employees should not have to wait because of the board’s inefficiency in getting this done. MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION TO AWARD COLA INCREASES JULY 1ST TO THE EMPLOYEES. Chris Howe seconded. MOTION PASSED. More Discussion Followed.
Chairman Miller spoke to the audience that this pay grid project is not necessarily to give anybody a huge raise, but rather to give the board a starting point so when raise time does come around, the board has an up-dated grid and baseline to work from. Discussion Followed
Treasurer Brassor stated that this will be an objective fair way to deal with salaries within the Town. David Andrews addressed the board to recommend that there should be a liaison from the board working on this and all of the work should not fall onto the Treasurer. Mike Ball and Chris Howe volunteered to work with both the Treasurer and the company that will be hired to complete this project.
PACKAGE INSURANCE
While e-mailing back and forth between VLCT and the Richards Group, Sally feels that the ultimate decision of which company to go with is the Board’s. Mike Courtemanche called VLCT about the opinions that Massamont had sent to the town concerning Vernon going with VLCT. Since VLCT was very concerned with the things Massamont was stating about VLCT’s program they are planning to forward Massamont’s opinions on to the Vermont Department of Banking and Insurance Securities. VLCT was concerned and wanted the board to note that Massamont was only providing $100,000.00 for Personnel Liability Defense Costs and that this needed to be rectified no matter who the town goes with for a carrier as most cases today cost the town between $200,000.00 to $300,000.00 dollars. Discussion Followed. Richards lowered the premiums first presented, after their discussion with Treasurer Brassor about what VLCT was offering, by $13,000.00. Annette Roydon noted to remember that with PACIF VLCT there are many free perks that Richards doesn’t offer.
ANNETTE ROYDON MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT VLCT PACIF INSURANCE PACKAGE FOR THE TOWN OF VERNON. Mike Ball seconded. MOTION PASSED.
Treasurer Brassor stated that she had received the bill already for the Select Board room’s new tables ordered from CSN Stores through Google. Sally called about the order and they explained that Google monies are required up-front and then the vendor is paid and the item shipped. Delivery is to be July 1st to 22nd. CSN explained that we could cancel the order through Google and then order directly through the store. Discussion Followed. Purchasing the table has already been approved by the previous motion of the bills and warrants.
Highway Department – David Walker
Paving Bids
David Walker presented the board with the following bids :
Tri-State Asphalt Sealing Inc. - $4,158.00
Cleaning cracks of dirt and sealing the Hot Applied Sealant #3405 crack
filler. From intersection of Pond Rd and Newton Rd. to the new asphalt change.
All State Asphalt Inc. – Asphalt rubber surface treatment. Newton Road
$3.90 per square yard –Newton Rd 14,198 Square Yards - $55,372.20
Noting that only one vendor replied to both bids, Mike Ball read the bid policy clarifying that David Walker had tried to meet the requirements of the bid policy to the best of his ability and that the intent of the policy was satisfied. Discussion Followed.
MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE BID FROM TRI-STATE ASPHALT SEALING INC. FOR CLEANING AND FILLING CRACKS TO THE DESIGNATED AREA FOR $4,158.00. AND TO ALSO ACCEPT THE BID FROM ALL STATES ASPHALT INC. FOR $55,372.20. Mike Courtermanche seconded THE MOTION CARRIED.
Sak Road- Road Commissioner Walker
Road Commissioner Walker had spoken with Steve Zaluzny about Sak Road. David said in order to keep trucks off the road and to set overweight requirements, an ACT 250 renewal would need to be obtained on SaK Rd. David Walker said we would have to contact VLCT on the verbiage to use to post the road and it would have to be up-dated every year.
Road Commisioner Walker stated the second thing we could do is get Zaluzny’s to help bring the road up to specs for trucks to drive on it. Discussion Followed.
Chairman Miller stated that the residents on the road do not want trucks to be coming and going on it. Chris Howe questioned if the road would be brought down, as the middle is humped up, David Walker said he would fill the ditches with stones. Mike Ball asked if the road would be brought up to the town’s specifications and policies. Chairman Miller said that he had put off talking to the residents until he knew exactly what direction the board would be going with this.
David stated there would need to be a fifty foot right of way. Chairman Miller said he would proceed and bring the information back to the town and would also, at Annette Roydon’s request, talk to the Farmland Committee about a field on Sak Rd.
FIRE DEPARTMENT UPDATE – SOPS AND REVIEW PROCESS
Annette first asked Chief Tom Fox if he was set with the meeting Wednesday night with Connie Faulkner for the CPR training. She also noted that it would now be held at the Town Office downstairs, not the Fire Department, at 6:30 P.M.
David Andrews reported on the progress of implementing the new Fire Department \Association. Mike Ball spoke of his concern that they were moving too fast and he was interested in building community with this change and that maybe they would lose people on the way. David Andrews explained that they had a time line for implementation which was more of a task line. David explained that they had their first meeting with the fire company on June 12th and covered the first round of SOPs and that they were very well received. The firemen have until July 3rd to bring back their written comments with their names on them for discussion and then to be presented to the board at the meeting of July 7th.
Chief Tom Fox and David Andrews had to leave for a Fire Call. This was tabled until their return.
JOB DESCRIPTIONS
Chris Howe started by going over her recommendations for changes. Chris also stated that she in no way had intended for any of these Job Descriptions to be approved at this meeting, she said they needed to be gone over by department heads and then discussed by the board.
Chris started with the Recreation Assistant – Rec-Director Seth Deyo relayed to her that by law the pre-school directors need to have certification from the state. The present Director and Assistant now are grandfathered, and are receiving the required training for their certification. It should be job specific.
Police Department - Polygraph testing and also Psych consult be added to Police Department job requirements.
Custodian – Job Title had been changed June 21, 2005 to Maintenance Foreman and after discussion his assistant will be Maintenance Assistant.
Selectboard Secretary – Chris suggested that this position had been stated in the description to be part-time hourly and so should be that. More discussion followed. Chris wanted clearly for people to understand that her suggestions were in no way meant to be personal but that the board at this time was cleaning up the job descriptions and this had to be also. Mike Ball stated that the position had never meant to be a salaried position. Treasurer Brassor said that it would be easiest to pay as they are now thru June 30th and then move to hourly pay beginning with the new fiscal year July 1, 2008,
Chris Howe stated that she had looked through the minutes to find where the Board had changed job title to Administrative Assistant and that there had never been a motion made to that or discussion in the minutes. Discussion Followed.
Chris Howe said that she thought that the SelectBoard Secretary should be the one to notify individuals who were on the meeting’s agenda to attend and tell them what they were coming for. Discussion Followed. Annette Roydon stated that she felt that the board member who was bringing someone to the agenda should be the notifying party. After discussion it was thought to be a joint effort and that the Selectboard secretary would be directed to notify individuals on the agenda by request of the board.
Chris asked that the ability to construct professional business letters and send them should be added. Chris stated that was all the recommendations she had.
Mike Ball’s recommendations- Director of Recreation, page 2, third down, “living in town or make a reasonable effort to do so” should be stricken.
Mike Courtemanche said he saw a lot of things in the job descriptions that would fit better in the Personnel Policy handbook which he would like to see done over again. He brought a copy of Brattleboro’s Personnel Policy which he believes is very comprehensive and that being said, a lot of this stuff could be in the personnel policy handbook rather then duplicating verbiage in the Job Descriptions and therefore be a lot more job specific.
Chris Howe stated maybe everybody that can, be on hourly pay and it should be implemented with the use of time clocks. Chief Turnley said that it wouldn’t work for the Police Department. Chris answered that for some it wouldn’t work. Discussion Followed. Mike Ball stated that if nothing is happening right now to warrant the use of time clocks, why fix the system if it isn’t broken? Chairman Miller suggested that this be spoken to at another meeting. Much Discussion Followed. Mike Ball stated that the personnel policy should state who are to be State Reporters and who should have background checks. ANNETTE ROYDON MADE THE MOTION TO PASS OVER THE JOB DESCRIPTIONS TO THE JULY 21ST MEETING WITH DEPARTMENT HEADS. Chris Howe seconded. MOTION PASSED.
DAVID RINFRET – ACT 250 VIOLATION COMPLAINT
Mr. Rinfret apologized for his letter to the board about the operation of Cersosimo’s Gravel Pit and the fact that he hasn’t been able to follow through with this letter until now. It is not the gravel pit that bothers him it is the operation of the pit that has been a hardship to his family. He stated that he wished the board would become more involved with any more activity that is going to be happening there, and should give more consideration to its residents and how these things will affect them. Mike Ball stated that he was familiar with this project and was on a previous board that had dealt with Cersosimo. Mike Ball stated that they had never put in row of trees to form a wind break that was a requirement of their permit, and he was concerned that Cersosimo had not followed through with all of its requirements as stated in the permit.
Mike said they should acquire a history of the permits that have been issued and any amendments made to them. Mr Rinfret stated that he was not aware that any of the requirements as presented in the original permitting had been followed through.
Mr. Rinfret stated that he believed back in the beginning that the original board had been influenced to change OSHA regulations and open pit and quarry requirements. Mike Ball said that he wanted to make sure Cersosimo was held accountable for what they had done and had not done according to the Act 250 requirements. Discussion Followed. Bob Miller stated he will get information together on Act 250 permits obtained by Cersosimo regarding this area. Mike Ball and Bob Miller will work together checking the permitting on this area.
POLICE DEPARTMENT – TOM HENDRICKS, OFFICER BRUCE GAULD AND CHIEF TURNLEY
Tom Hendricks apologized for once again bringing this matter to the Selectboard time and time again; he doesn’t feel that his issue is being processed in a timely manner. Mr. Hendricks stated he feels it is highly unprofessional for officers in the town to go around discussing charges that haven’t been met; he feels his rights under law have not been upheld.
Mr. Hendricks stated that the wheels seemed to have fallen off from the Police Department and something needs to be done about this situation. Hendricks stated that the letter from Chief Turnley had not gotten to him in a timely manner and he couldn’t believe he had been charged while the investigation is still going on. Chief Turnley stated that there had been two investigations that had come out of this incident, April 23, 2008. On May 24, 2008 Chief Turnley sent a letter to Mr. Hendricks referencing the investigation that was going on and that additional interviews would be needed before his conclusion to this investigation. Also Mr. Hendricks was querying about the criminal complaint stemming out of the same incident of April 23, 2008. Chief Turnley stated that as of 5:00 P.M today he had finished his investigation on an officer’s conduct. Mike Ball stated that what they are talking about is that Chief Turnley gives the perception that things aren’t getting done in the police department because there is a delay in the process and that puts the department in a bad light. Chief Turnley stated that ideally he would like it all to get done in a timely fashion but it doesn’t always work like that. Mike Ball stated that the perception Chief Turnley has put out to the public and Mr. Hendricks, is that nothing is getting done, because the Police Department hasn’t given forth any communication to Mr. Hendricks or the Board and the fact the public’s perception of the police department and their confidence has been affected. Discussion followed. Tom Hendricks questioned about the missing car. Mike Ball questioned Chief Turnley if he had reported the car missing, put out an APB and followed the correct procedures. Chief Turnley said that he had done all that, however he didn’t have any idea where the car was. Chief Turnley and Chairman Miller will meet Wednesday to discuss this further.
Chief Kevin Turnley
Chief Turnley asked that the Board allow him to open up the hiring process again. JJ Jones has resigned. We do have personnel in training still. Chief Turnley stated he would like to offer $16.00/hr for the pre-probationary time. MIKE BALL MADE A MOTION TO AUTHORIZE CHIEF TURNLEY TO OPEN UP THE HIRING PROCESS AND IF HE FINDS A FULLY CERTIFIED PERSON THAT COMPLIES WITH THE VT CRIMINAL JUSTICE COUNCIL, HE IS AUTHORIZED BY THE SELECTBOARD TO HIRE HIM IMMEDIATELY FOR $16.00/HR. PRE-PROBATIONARY PERIOD AND $17.00 AFTER, AND HE SHOULD BRING BACK THE OTHER PERSON WHOM HE IS PROPOSING TO HIRE AT A LATER DATE. Annette Roydon is concerned that in the past there had been a police liaison in the police hiring process and she is a little hesitant to not have a select board liaison not meet this person. Mike Ball read from the appointment roster that he and Bob Miller are the liason individuals to the Police Department. MIKE BALL AGREED TO ACCEPT THIS AS A FRIENDLY AMENDMENT. Chris Howe seconded. MOTION PASSED.
CHRIS HOWE MADE THE MOTION AT 9:10 P.M TO BREAK FOR 10 MINUTES. Annette Roydon seconded. MOTION PASSED
MEETING RESUMED AT 9:20 P.M.
Annette Roydon asked Chief Turnley why the Police Report was not in the last issue of the Vernon Newspaper and that Vernon residents like to know what their police department is doing. Chief Turnley noted that with the other work being done in his office there hadn’t been time to get a report together, he hoped to in the next issue.
ANNETTE ROYDON MADE THE MOTION TO GO TO UNFINISHED BUSINESS POSTPONING PERSONNEL AGENDA ITEM TO THE MEETING OF JULY 21, 2008. Mike Ball seconded. THE MOTION PASSED.
CHIEF TOM FOX AND DAVID ANDREWS RETURNED.
FIRE DEPATMENT UPDATE RESUMED.
David Andrews went over the working Task Line with the board and it is as follows barring any glitches or set-backs.
June 12th – First round of S.O.Ps Fire Mtg.
July 3rd - Comments written and signed.
July 7th- Comments brought to board for review.
Physically working the next three weeks to update security at the Fire Station and install new keypad.
July 8th – 2nd round of S.O.P’s Fire Mtg. - Comment time for members - August 4th to the Board.
July 24th 3rd round of S.O.P’s Fire Mtg. - Comment time for members -. August 18th to the Board
June 30th – July 5th Perform interviews for Assistant Chief Fire - Bring to the Board July 7th Meeting candidates name.
Next two weeks fill the other officer’s positions. August 13th thru 19th assess Fire Companies Assets.
JULY 20th – AUGUST 9th File Documents with the State to initiate Vernon Fire Association.
August 5th – Meet with Fire Company-resolve remaining issues.
August 28th – Present New Officers to the Department
August 31st – Move to Fire Department/ Association
Mike Ball was surprised of the presentation of the officers to the board, he would like to only have the Chief report to the board and the rest of the officers should be picked by the Fire Chief only at his discretion. Discussion Followed. David Andrews noted the Board had requested this roster to be presented back to the Selectboard. Chris Howe noted to share it with the Board is a purely introductory procedure as the decisions are ultimately the Fire Chief’s.
Chris Howe stated that she received an e-mail regarding the lawn mowing at the Fire Department. Chris had them looked up in the minutes and it was noted that Chief Parker felt it was the responsibility of the Fire Company. David Andrews noted that the Fire Company was no-longer, so the motion was not still in order. Chris stated that the Fire Department should be responsible and the Selectboard should ratify the previous decision to that. Much discussion Followed. There has been money found by Treasurer Brassor to buy a new mower in three different places. Chris Howe reported she had spoken with Howe’s Lawn Care would charge $45.00 per mowing. More discussion followed. David Andrews asked if anyone knew what the school was doing with their old mower as they had just purchased a new one. Annette Roydon said that she had a Poulin Riding Lawnmower that she would give to the Fire Department, and maybe Bob could do some minor repairs and then bring it to the Fire Station. Chairman Miller said that he spoke to some of the fireman and that if they had a lawnmower they would mow the lawn.
David Andrews stated that the AED that has been purchased for the school / rec area is here and that the one for the recreation area needs to be positioned there, before the Town Picnic, as a large crowd is expected. Invoice has been received and given to Sally to process it through. David Andrews also said he had sent e-mails to the board as to the status of AED’s in the police department. Chairman Miller stated that they had two, but now they actually only have one. Mike Ball urged the need to have some formality here to come from the people who have the knowledge and are experts in this arena. The AEDS, the public access defibrillators that are coming through district 13 come under the license of the medical advisor for the district Dr. Backus. JJ Wheeldon is the Head of Service for the Fire Department and is the rep to District 13 and is knowledgeable about the common communications that have occurred with AED’s and the responsibility that the district has put on Public Access Defibrillators, so Mike feels JJ should be the one coordinating the Defibrillators within the town. More Discussion Followed.
David Andrews stated that the Police Department knew they had no functioning AEDs and had not made the Selectboard aware of it. JJ was not made aware of it. The Chief went to Rescue Inc to see what was wrong with them: one was fixed and brought back to the department and the dead unit was left. Connie Faulkner called to see what to do with the dead one that she had her office for some time. David Andrews brought it back to the Chief. There had been no communications with the Chief or the town that they only had one working at the Police Department. Mike felt if it was JJ’s responsibility for the AEDs in town the problem with the ones at the Police Department would never have happened. He would be doing periodic tests of these. Discussion Followed. At this point David Andrews stated that the conversation he had with the Police Chief is that he wanted to get back to having two AEDs. David Andrews asked if the AED that is in the Fire Chiefs office should be given to the police department. Mike Ball still feels there should be one person that should be responsible for the AEDs. More discussion followed, The Police Chief stated to David Andrews he wanted the AED but did not have enough money in his budget to pay for it, and the fire department had paid for it and would be expected to be re-imbursed by the police department. Chairman Miller stated that the Police Department does have enough money in their budget and David Andrews said “exactly” so what is the Boards pleasure? Chairman Miller asked if the Police Chief wishes to have two AEDS, why would we need JJ Wheeldon to oversee when the Police Chief should be responsible for them. Mike Ball stated that pure and simple this hasn’t occurred in the past and that is why you had two dead AEDs. It was stated that the Police Department is trained in using this equipment and so also would have been trained in taking care of it. More Discussion Followed. David Andrews will contact Chief Turnley about the police department getting the AED from the Fire Department.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Selectboard Room- Air Conditioners
Chris Howe stated she had talked with Mike Coughlin and he said it would be much cheaper to buy individual units for the Town Office Downstairs than a central unit. Mike Coughlin has the monies to purchase these and Chris will speak to him in the morning about going ahead with this.
Selectboard Room Sound System – It was discussed and not needed at this time.
Letter From Sandy – Chris Howe stated the board had received a letter from Sandy Town Clerk about paying an invoice for Assistant Town Clerk Susan Miller to go to the Clerk’s Institute.
After discussion, ANNETTE ROYDON MADE A MOTION TO PAY THE INVOICE PRESENTED FOR THE ASSISTANT TOWN CLERK SUSAN MILLER TO ATTEND THE CLERK’S INSTITUTE JULY 13th thru 19th. INVOICE TO BE PAID ON JULY 1, 2008 Mike Ball seconded. MOTION PASSED
Recycling-
Mike Courtemanche presented a flyer he had gotten from Windham Solid Waste to be distributed in our next Town Paper. Mike stated he had only a few hundred copies and did anyone know where he could get more color copies made, as the color is pertinent to the effectiveness of the flyer. Mike Ball was asked if he would ask if VY could help us
with making more copies. Mike displayed a picture of a Recycling Information Booth that would be set up at The Town Picnic if the board so desired to educate the public more about the process of recycling. It had hundred percent approval from the Board.
Comcast – Mike Courtemanche stated that there were still some people who have Comcast service who couldn’t watch the Board meetings.. There will be a representative to try to rectify this problem so if there are any people in the audience who are experiencing this difficulty to contact Mike Courtemanche ASAP.
Selectboard Room
Chris Howe mentioned that she noticed the statutes in the Selectboard room needed to be updated and what was the board’s pleasure concerning this. After discussion it was decided that now the Statutes could be accessed on the Web so it wouldn’t be necessary. Chris Howe placed an Employee’s Handbook in the Boards room and is trying to acquire all the different Town Position’s Handbooks.
Treasurer Brassor left a note to say that the table had not been included in the Warrants and Bills as thought,so what should she now do about the table bill. After discussion it was decided to leave it at her discretion.
PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD
Nancy Durborow wanted the minutes of June 2, 2008, to read that Mike Ball had already received the materials concerning the van and that Eleanor Allen was just giving him a replacement copy. More Discussion followed.
Cookie asked the status of back-up van drivers and had letters been sent or an hourly wage been determined. Discussion Followed.
Nancy Durborow asked the status of the letters being sent to the different committee’s appointments. Discussion Followed.
MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION TO ADJOURN AT 10:35 PM. Chris Howe seconded.
MOTION PASSED.
ADJOURNED
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Accepted as Printed: _____________
Accepted as Corrected: ___________
VERNON SELECTBOARD MEETING
June 2, 2008
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Robert Miller Jr. Tom Fox Sally Brassor
Christiane Howe Paul Miller David Andrews
Michael Ball Mary Miller Chris Garofolo
Michael Courtemanche Richard Carroll 6:23 David Walker
Annette Roydon Jon Hall 6:30 John Whipple
Victoria Hall 6:30 Tom Hendricks Sr. 6:30
OTHERS PRESENT: Fred Sage 6:42 Kevin Turnley 7:02
Eleanor Allen 7:12 Frank Wetherby 6:42 Cindy Turnley 7:02
Bruce Gauld 7:37 Lynda Starorypinski 8:00 Brandi Brow 8:00