To Print Specific Minutes - Cut and Paste - otherwise you may get many pages of minutes you didn't want.
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Vernon Selectboard Mtg. 6/22/09
Draft
Accepted as Printed______________
Accepted as Corrected _______________
VERNON SELECTBOARD
WORKING SESSION MEETING
June 22, 2009 5:30 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERs Present:
Michael Ball Kevin Turnley
Robert Miller, Jr. Cindy Turnley
Len Howard Bruce Gauld
Michael Courtemanche William McCarty
Lynda Starorypinski 6:08 David Andrews
OTHERS PRESENT:
Chris Garofolo
WELCOME AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
At 5:43 pm Mike Ball called the meeting to order, welcomed those present and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
UPDATES-
Mike Ball stated that the board needs to have representation for the town’s interest in an upcoming tax appeal. The state appraiser will come to review the George’s property on June 30, 2009. Len Howard volunteered to meet with them.
The board discussed replacing the current recorder with a digital recorder due to the fact that the secretary needs to change the tapes often during meetings. The board secretary will check out other options and get back to the board.
Mike Ball stated that Sally sent him the policies to be drafted to cover Human Resources and Health and Safety. Mike stated he will distribute them to the rest of the board.
Speaker Phone-Mike Courtemanche stated that he spoke with Mike Tatro from Consult Techs regarding the speaker phone. Consult Techs regarding restocking fees in the event the phone needed to be sent back. Mike Ball indicated he wasn’t concerned about the phone which was being proposed but he questioned whether an analog phone would work instead of the current digital multi-line phone. Mike Courtemanche indicated the new phone could be plugged into the existing analog port within the current phone. Mike Courtemanche will verify with Consult Techs as well as with Sally to ensure we had money for the new phone and report at the next meeting.
Len Howard asked Mike Ball if the Planning Board had been able to get together to finish the Town Plan. Mike Ball stated that he has been in contact with them and with the help with the WCR things should be getting done.
Mike Courtemanche made a motion to take a recess to wait for Lynda Starorypinski. Len Howard seconded the motion @6:02 pm.
The board came out of recess A 6:08 pm.
job descriptions-
The Selectboard reviewed in depth and discussed changes to the following:
Road Commissioner-
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE ROAD commissioner job description as corrected. len howard seconded the motion. the motion carried.
Bus driver-
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE bus driver job description as corrected. len howard seconded the motion. the motion carried.
POLICE DEPARTMENT –ISSUES
Police Chief Kevin Turnley with his council William McCarty joined the board to answer questions and to give updates regarding the findings of the audit. Chief Turnley stated that the Police Clerk was hired and she has completed all training except NIBRS. Officer Herbert is now full time since December. The evidence room has new lockers and all officers have been briefed on evidence storage and the Chief is the only one to have the key. Training is an on going matter. Mike Ball stated that the evidence room needs a policy that is put together explaining how it is controlled in case it should come in a court case. Mike Ball asked Chief Turnley when that policy would be ready and the Chief replied that he had no target date for this. Mike Ball stated that the board would like the policies before the end of the year.
Mike Ball stated that Chief Turnley should talk a little to the board about the waivers and the article that was in the Burlington Free Press. Kevin stated that the article was wrong and has no idea where they get there information. The board was sent via email a letter from Lynn James, Administrative Services Coordinator and Records Keeper of the Vermont Police Academy that all officers are certified and are in compliance with all training requirements. Mike Courtemanche read from the minutes of the Vermont Criminal Justice Training Committee (Waiver Committee) meeting which was held on February 25, 2009. The waivers were needed for officers that were short on classes and hours. Mike Courtemanche asked the Chief if the officers have finished with the firearms and First aid training. Chief Turnley replied that the officers are certified. Mike Courtemanche stated he had no doubt the officers were certified and was only asking why waivers were needed to retain their certification. Len Howard asked Chief Turnley that if the issue was this simple why he had not clarified this when he was first asked about the issue when the newspaper article came out. The board would have liked the Police Chief to articulate when the department has put in for waivers so that speculation could be cleared up immediately. William McCarty stated that the Burlington Free Press was in error and so where the Minutes for the Vt. Criminal Justice Training Council and that the Chief has already explained it several times in writing and again orally. William McCarty stated that the board was micro managing the Police Department and that was in violation of State Statue 24VSA Section 1931. Mike Ball stated that the board has talked with town council and that was not the case the board is not in violation of such statue. Mike Ball further stated that with the number of complaints that were received the board was trying to allow the chief the opportunity to improve his performance and the performance of his department so that the complaints would discontinue.
With much discussion the board moved on.
Chief Turnley conveyed that the search for officers to hire was coming along and hopefully interviews would be in two weeks.
David Andrews asked the board about the status of the Taser Policy and the Use of Force Policy. Mike Ball stated that he has both policies. Mike Ball stated that town council has not seen the policies. David Andrews asked if the Vernon Crime Statistics are being reported. Chief Turnley stated that 2007 are lost but the department is working on the 2008 statistics. It was noted in the audit that the Vernon Police Department was in violation of the reporting requirements which require Police Departments to report their criminal statistics through the national incident based reporting system. Chief Turnley has been updating NIBRS with the 2008 data and has given the town newspaper articles and crime statistics for last month to be published when the newspaper is published. David Andrews also asked if the findings from the audit would be made available. The board would post this on their new web site.
The board thanked Chief Turnley.
LEN HOWARD MADE THE MOTION TO GO INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION ON A PERSONNEL MATTER, WHICH THE DISCLOSURE OF AT THIS TIME MAY BE DETRIMENTAL TO THE TOWN AND/OR THE INDIVIDUALS INVOLVED. Mike Courtemanche SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
Mike Ball stated that the board entered into executive session at 7:15 and came out at 7:31 and no action was taken.
Job Descriptions-
Camp Counselors
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE camp counselors job description as corrected. len howard seconded the motion. the motion carried.
Children’s Librarian-
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE children’s librarian job description as corrected. len howard seconded the motion. the motion carried.
Day Camp Director-
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE day camp director job description as corrected. len howard seconded the motion. the motion carried.
Fire Chief-
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE fire chief job description as corrected. len howard seconded the motion. the motion carried.
Lister-
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE lister job description as corrected. len howard seconded the motion. the motion carried.
Library Director-
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE library director job description as corrected. len howard seconded the motion. the motion carried.
Library Assistant-
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE library assistantjob description as corrected. len howard seconded the motion. the motion carried.
Children’s Librarian-
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE CHILDREN’S Librarian description as corrected. len howard seconded the motion. the motion carried.
Maintenance Supervisor
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE Maintenance Supervisor job description as corrected. len howard seconded the motion. the motion carried.
Recreation Department Maintenance-
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE recreation department Maintenance job description as corrected. len howard seconded the motion. the motion carried.
Preschool Director-
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE preschool director job description as corrected. len howard seconded the motion. the motion carried.
The Job descriptions for all of the library positions will be sent to the Library Board of Trustees for their final approval.
MEDIA
No media present.
Len howard made the motion to adjourn. mike courtemanche seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
Adjourned @9:00 PM.
NEXT MEETING WILL BE, July 1, 2009 @ 5:30 PM FOR A WORKING SESSION.
Respectfully submitted by ________________
Elaine Howard
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Vernon Selectboard Mtg. 6/15/09
Draft
Accepted as Printed______________
Accepted as Corrected _______________
VERNON SELECTBOARD SPECIAL MEETING
June 15, 2009 6:30 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERs Present:
Michael Ball Tom Hendricks
Robert Miller, Jr. Georgia Boyce
Len Howard David Andrews
Michael Courtemanche Mario Buisa
Lynda Starorypinski 7:15 Chris Howe
OTHERS PRESENT: Marylynn Scherlin
Sandy Harris Seth Deyo
Sally Brassor Sarah Deyo
Pete Crossman Tim Forrett
Steve Hardy
WELCOME AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
At 6:35 pm Mike Ball called the meeting to order, welcomed those present and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT-
Tom Hendricks asked the board when the Police Department audit would be released to the public. Mike Ball stated that he had talked with town council regarding the audit and the report would be released on the new selectboard web site. Tom Hendricks also asked about Comcast and their obligation to make cable access available to everyone in Vernon. Mike Ball stated that there is a map that currently shows the areas where service is available and future plans to make the service available in the Vernon area. David Andrews stated that when he was on the selectboard Comcast wanted the board to sign off on their franchise agreement and at that time the board did not sign the agreement because Comcast claimed that all roads in town had been wired but in fact the service was still unavailable. David stated that he believes that the board never did sign the agreement because they were not willing to validate that everything was done yet. David Andrews suggested that the board contact the Public Service Board before signing any agreement with Comcast. Mike Ball stated that all main road looks to be service according to the map. Mike Ball will research the agreement and contact the Public Service Board.
David Andrews stated that with the lack of access to the town’s policies the Fire Department web site now has them posted for anyone to access at anytime. This will be displayed until the Vernon Selectboard has there web site up and running.
MINUTE APPROVAL
JUNE 1ST MINUTES.
Correction in June 1st minutes, Public Comment second paragraph add after Fairpoint outages I sent an e-mail to Fairpoint saying that the Town of Vernon needs to be told of planned maintenance outages. This is extremely important because of planned automated reverse 911 calls, 911 service and people who have lifeline accounts. The notices from Fairpoint will then be forwarded to Police, Fire and Emergency Management. Correction to name Christina Carr should be Christine Carr.
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE JUNE 1 MINUTES WITH CORRECTIONS. LEN HOWARD SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
JUNE 3RD MINUTES.
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE MINUTES OF JUNE 3 AS WRITTEN. LEN HOWARD SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
BILLS AND WARRANTS-Sally Brassor
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO APPROVAL WARRANTS 30 S/G, 23S AND 24S. LEN HOWARD SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
UPDATE EMPLOYEE WELLNESS PROGRAM.
Sally stated that the VLCT had not accepted four of the Town of Vernon policies. She was hoping to get the board to update these polices before October 1st. After VLCT reviewed the Vernon policies they found that the policies are copies of state laws. There should also be a Health and Safety policy. With the town having the Recreation Department and Highway Department a Safety policy is needed. Sally reported that out of 19 employees that are on the insurance 13 did participate in the program. Sally will e-mail the information about the Health and Safety policies to Mike Ball to distribute to the board for review.
MIKE COUTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO TAKE EOC GRANTS OUT OF ORDER ON THE AGENDA. LEN HOWARD SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
EOC GRANTS- Mike Courtemanche
A RERP Reporting Agreement is due within 30 days of July 30, 2009 detailing the expenditures and any fund balances as of June 30, 2009. All documentation shall be retained by the Grantee for a period of three years following the close of the grant and shall be made available to any authorized representative of the Department of Public Safety for purposes of audit. Mike reported that there were no expenditures used in conjunction with $5000.00 Grant FY 09. Any expenditures incurred in the past year used monies leftover from previous years the $5000.00 from Grant FY 09 will be carried over to the next year.
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO HAVE MIKE BALL SIGN THE RERP REPORTING AGREEMENT. ROBERT MILLER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
The board thanked Sally.
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO GO BACK IN ORDER ON THE AGENDA. ROBERT MILLER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
TOWN CLERK ISSUES-Sandy Harris
Cemetery Deeds-
LEN HOWARD MADE THE MOTION TO APPROVE THE CEMETERY DEEDS FOR NORTH 102 SITE A AND TYLER 398 LOT A AND B. ROBERT MILLER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
Verecs System-
Because two of the vendors had not responded yet it was the consensus of the board to table this to another meeting.
The board thanked Sandy.
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO TAKE NEW/UNFINISHED BUSINESS OUT OF ORDER ON THE AGENDA. ROBERT MILLER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
NEW/UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Unfinished Business-
Speaker phone-Mike Courtemanche stated that he had a quote from Consult Techs. Mike Tatro, owner of Consult Techs, currently does work for the Town of Vernon. A basic Polycom Speaker phone installed would be $399.00 plus $38.00 shipping. Pending verification of available funds and questions about the return policy, the speakerphone is to be approved at next meeting.
Job Descriptions- Meeting set for June 22, 1009 at 5:30 pm.
Town Picnic booth update- Composting kick off. Mike Courtemanche will have information about composting along with a mailing about what can be recycled. The Zero Waste Stations used at Brattleboro’s Strolling of the Heifers will be used at the Town Picnic.
New Business-
Fireworks Permit- Georgia Boyce
Georgia gave an update on the Town Picnic stating it would occur on June 27th weather permitting. It will include penny carnival, softball and a potluck dinner with a band. The fireworks will follow it but the board must sign a permit.
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO AUTHORIZE MIKE BALL TO SIGN THE FIREWORKS PERMIT. LYNDA STAROYPINSKI SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
The board thanked Georgia.
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO GO BACK INTO ORDER ON THE AGENDA. LEN HOWARD SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
RECREATION DEPARTMENT-Seth Deyo
Farmers Market- The Vernon Recreation Department is requesting to sponsor a seasonal Farmers Market located at the recreation department for 10 weeks. The Miller Farm would come in one morning a week, with the possibility of one evening a week if it becomes popular, setting up at the corner of the parking lot by the tennis courts. All products are to be agricultural. Should other vendors show interest Seth has come up with some stipulations? A signed waiver of liability would be required and vendors must reside in Vernon. Crafts are not permitted. Lynda Starorypinski asked if Seth would inform the board of any new vendors. Mike Ball conveyed his concerns about customers of the market interacting with children participating in the Rec. Department’s summer program. Seth stated that in the event the market gets more vendors and a larger volume of traffic there is the possibility to move the market across the street to the ball field.
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE PROPOSAL FOR THE 2009 SEASONAL FARMERS MARKET AT THE RECREATION DEPARTMENT PENDING APPROVAL FROM TOWN COUNCIL REGARDING THE WAVIER. ADDITIONALLY, SETH DEYO WILL NOTIFY THE BOARD CHAIR OR IN HIS ABSENCE THE VICE CHAIR OF NEW VENDORS PARTICIPATING. LEN HOWARD SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
Board Appointment-
LEN HOWARD MADE THE MOTION TO APPROVE SAM FONTAINE TO THE RECREATION DEPARTMENT BOARD. ROBERT MILLER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
The board thanked Seth.
Mike Courtemanche gave an update from the FEMA meeting that had occurred at the elementary school earlier that evening. FEMA had indicated that the VY drill that had occurred last week had been a success. Annette Roydon was also nominated and selected as the Emergency Operations Director of the year for the State of Vermont.
Congratulations to Annette Roydon.
Lynda Starorypinski made the motion to take a 1O MINUTE recess @7:35. ROBERT MILLER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
Mike Ball stated that the board returned from recess at 7:55.
POLICE DEPARTMENT-
With nobody from the Police Department in attendance and several unsuccessful attempts to get Chief Turnley to attend after the FEMA meeting, it was the consensuses of the board to have the Police Chief attend the June 22 meeting @ 6:30.
TOWN FOREST-Steve Hardy
Steve Hardy from Green Mountain Forestry gave the board an update on the progress of the regeneration of the Town Forest. Steve reported that he had marked patches for cutting for regeneration of the oak and pine. Steve stated that he has a marked tree summary to date. The summary indicates that up to 800 cords and 400,000 board feet will be removed. Mike Courtemanche stated that he saw unmarked trees cut. Steve explained that in some locations he marks the perimeter and what is inside that area is not marked but is included in the cutting. Chris Howe stated that there are truckloads of firewood being taken from the forest and asked if the residents of Vernon could benefit from this. Steve Hardy stated that the company that is cutting the timber pays the town for the stumpage and there is a full accounting of what has been taken out of there. Steve also stated that selling the wood to local residents at a discounted price would undercut local people who provided firewood. Steve indicate he is willing to listen to any ideas on how we could make this work better for everyone involved Pete Crossman conveyed his concerns with the forest and of the patch cutting. Pete indicated the forest was for recreation and for people to enjoy being in the woods not in an open field. Steve stated that they are only cutting 18% of the forest and only a third is complete. This is a low value cut because the price of hemlock is currently down and the stumpage is only paying $48.00 per thousand board feet. Steve stated that the point of this sale is to regenerate the forest not to make money. Steve stated that he had asked the State Forester to review the cutting and to do a walk thru of the harvest process. Steve stated that the State Forester wrote that he was impressed by the status and that no additional permits were necessary for the planned harvesting.
With no further discussion the board moved on.
MEDIA-
No media present.
MIKE COURTEMANCHE made the motion to adjourn. ROBERT MILLER seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
Adjourned @9:12 PM.
NEXT MEETING WILL BE, June 22, 2009 @ 5:30 pm.
Respectfully submitted by ________________
Elaine Howard
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Accepted as Corrected: ___________
VERNON PLANNING COMMISSION – Special MEETING MINUTES
April 23, 2009 1830 hours, Vernon Town Office Building
MEMBERS PRESENT: Rory Underwood (Chair), Mike Zaluzny, Dale Gassett, Shane Shippee, Jeff Dunklee, Steve Skibniowsky (Clerk)
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
OTHERS PRESENT: Dave McElwee, Senior Liaison Engineer, Entergy Vermont Yankee
MINUTE(S) APPROVAL
Approval of minutes of the previous meeting on March 26, 2009.
Discussion of changes in wetlands definition from the state’s standpoint. Mike Zaluzny moved to accept the meeting minutes as presented. Jeff Dunklee second the motion. The minutes were approved unanimously on a voice vote.
OLD BUSINESS
Dave McElwee described the proposal as a “Minor project” under the regulation. Fence Installation Process requires an Act 248 permit. This process requires approval by the Vernon Planning Commission followed by Public Service Board approval.
The fence will be a galvanized knot fence (typical farm fencing, 72 “ height with cedar posts). The current fence runs from Security Gate 1 north to the Vermont Yankee overflow parking lot. The new fence will start at a location just to the northeast of the Governor Hunt House, run along Governor Hunt Road with an approximate 50 foot setback and follow the property lines behind Walt Zaluzny house, Stan Jefferson house and Fortin house. The new fence will proceed to the corner of the Shepard house property and then proceed directly east to rejoin the existing Vermont Yankee Owner Control Area fence. Miller will still farm the land using gates to be installed in the new fence. Radiation monitors (Thermoluminescent Dosimeters –TLDs) installed on the site boundary. Installation will keep people out of this area. Dave McElwee met with neighbors (Miller Farm, Shepards and Patty O’Donnell as well as Annette Roydon (member of the Vernon Selectboard at the time of the meeting). Mike Hebert also looked at this proposed new fence from the school standpoint. An aesthetics engineer was contracted by Vermont Yankee to perform an evaluation. Shrubs could be planted if needed or wanted. Planning Commission member posed a question concerning radiation levels at the fence. Vermont Yankee will not be increasing any radiation levels at any fence or site boundary. Vermont Yankee will continue to measure radiation in both locations. The 20’ gates are in place to allow access to the field from both ends. Power supply questions how deep will the power supply be buried. Power lines will be buried five to six feet – well below tillage levels. The fence will be approximately 2200 feet long. Fence posts will be positioned approximately every 10 to 12 feet. No barbed wire will be installed along the top. No change in the output of dose from the plant will occur. A discussion of background radiation measurements ensued and Dave McElwee presented some information on background radiation exposure levels. The commissioners asked if Vermont Yankee planned to purchase more property along Governor Hunt Road. Dave McElwee responded that there were no plans right now but perhaps in the future. The commissioners asked about the Public Service Board’s opinions on projects. The PSB may send someone down to look at the project. The commissioners asked questions about the dry fuel storage pad and whether there were any security advantages from extending the fence northward. Dave McElwee responded that he could not discuss security issues but did not believe that there were any security advantages in this fence plan. Dave McElwee stated that the intention was to maximize the use of the land for agriculture. Commissioners also asked questions on the interface with the VELCO project with the new fence project. Dave McElwee indicated that there would be no interface since the new road to the project is just south of Faith Jobin’s property and well to the north of the new proposed fence.
Mike Zaluzny moved to approve the fence construction plan. Dale Gassett seconded the motion. Steve Skibniowsky abstained from voting because of his employment at Vermont Yankee. The other commissioners approved the motion on a voice vote.
Dave McElwee then requested a waiver of the 45 day comment period based upon the extensive comments and interface already provided to adjacent landowners and town boards and commissions. Dale Gassett moved to waive the 45 day comment period requirement for this new fence project. Mike Zaluzny seconded the motion. Steve Skibniowsky abstained from voting because of his employment at Vermont Yankee. The other commissioners approved the motion on a voice vote.
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Review of the mail. Rory Underwood stated that he will be presenting the mail and issues for the next meeting. He further supported the approach that the mail should be moved up to the beginning of the meeting.
Discussion of Ancient highways and the highway ordinance. Rory stated that we need to have Walker and a representative from the Selectboard attend our next meeting. Is there a violation of the highway ordinance? Would Fish and Game be interested in any of this? Another area is the issue of gravel pits. This should be another meeting topic. Rory will be asking people to come in to talk about issues. Discussion ensued on the OKEMO decision on ancient highways. Further discussion centered around the West Road extension (formerly called the Bushnell Road) that was given up in 1904 and now is being opened again. The road is specified as 2 rods wide from Guilford to the Bushnell signpost (intersection by Georges Mill [formerly called Bushnell’s Mill] on Rte 142 (Ft. Bridgman Road). Process for laying out roads changed around 1820. This process became more complicated after 1820.
Change the format of the meeting – Cover the mail first and plan revision second.
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Vernon Selectboard Mtg. 6/3/09
Draft
Accepted as Printed______________
Accepted as Corrected _______________
VERNON SELECTBOARD SPECIAL MEETING
June 3, 2009 6:30 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERs Present:
Michael Ball Tom Hendricks
Robert Miller, Jr. Mike Coughlin
Len Howard Kevin Turnley
Michael Courtemanche Cindy Turnley
Lynda Starorypinski Chris Howe
WELCOME AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
At 6:37 pm Mike Ball called the meeting to order, welcomed those present and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT-
Tom Hendricks conveyed his concerns with the Police Department not responding to a call placed that day in a timely manner. Mike Ball stated that if he had a complaint he should fill out the paper work and it would be dealt with. Kevin Turnley responded to Mr. Hendricks by stating that because the call was not an emergency he prioritized the call and responded as soon as he could. Mr. Hendricks asked that if in the event of an emergency is there only one officer on duty. Kevin stated that if there were an emergency he would have left the Dare graduation to cover any emergency calls. If he was tied up on an emergency call he would call in another officer or Brattleboro Police Department would cover the call. Lynda Starorypinski asked Mr. Hendricks if his call was answered and he replied yes it was.
Chris Howe stated that a rolled up rug and pad was floating in the fire pond on Route 142. Chris asked Mike Ball whom should she have gone to about the rug, and he stated the Fire Department or the road crew.
POLICE DEPARTMENT-KEVIN TURNLEY
Kevin Turnley presented the board with a letter of response regarding the board’s expectations of the Police Department. Mike Ball stated that the board gave Kevin a draft of some expectations to be discussed, and Kevin responded with a formal statement which seemed to not address many of the board’s concerns. The board was looking for some give and take and this response is a little troubling to the board.
Officer coverage-Mike Ball asked Kevin if it was warranted to have coverage in the morning when children are going to school. Kevin stated that keeping with his notes he needs to stay within his budget. The board conveyed that a presence in the morning during school hours would be beneficial, and different work schedules might be an option.
Development of Officer Expectations- Vernon Police Department is based on community policing. The board understands that it is the discretion of the Officer in whether tickets are written. The board was not looking for revenue only that existing laws be enforced.
Presentation by the Police Chief the second meeting every month- The board stated that they just want to keep communication flowing between the Departments. This was not intended for the Police Chief to report on open cases.
Development of policy for the department-This is in response to qualifications of officers to do certain investigations and what is turned over to the Vermont State Police. Kevin stated that none of his officers are certified to investigate a fatality therefore that is turned over to the State Police. Kevin stated that he has signed up for training for this and it has been cancelled several times. In Kevin’s absence his officers know to turn cases they are not certified for over to the State Police.
Communication-The board would like to continue with the communication with the department.
Update with certification of officers-Kevin stated that there is no problem with any certification of his officers as stated in the newspaper article of the Burlington Free Press. The board would like Kevin to contact the Training Council to get a letter stating that Vernon Police Department Officers are certified.
The board thanked Kevin.
BUILDING MAINTENANCE-MIKE COUGHLIN
Mike Coughlin stated to the board that in response to request assistance from other department heads with maintenance duties at the Town Offices, they have stated that they could help out on an emergency, temporary basis only. Mike Coughlin recommends hiring a part-time Maintenance Assistant. Mike stated that he could get by with 20 hours per week instead of 27 hours for his previous assistant.
ROBERT MILLER MADE THE MOTION FOR MIKE COUGHLIN TO HIRE A Maintenance Assistant for NORMAL WORKING HOURS OF 20 hours per week. lEN hOWARD SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
CEMETERY COMMITTEE-CHRIS HOWE
Chris Howe stated that there is no need to talk to the board about Secretaries pay. The board would like to thank all of the volunteers.
LEN HOWARD MADE THE MOTION TO TAKE A RECESS. ROBERT MILLER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
Mike Ball stated that the board took a recess and returned at 7:57.
JOB DESCRIPTIONS-
The Selectboard reviewed in depth and discussed changes to the following:
Full Time/Part Time- Police Department
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE FULL TIME/PART TIME-POLICE DEPARTMENT JOB DESCRIPTION AS CORRECTED. ROBERT MILLER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
Town Highway Department-Equipment Operator/Mechanic
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE EQUIPMENT OPERATOR/MECHANIC JOB DESCRIPTION AS CORRECTED. LEN HOWARD SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
Maintenance Assistant-
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE MAINTENANCE ASSISSTANT JOB DESCRIPTION AS CORRECTED. LEN HOWARD SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
Police Chief-
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE POLICE CHIEF JOB DESCRIPTION AS CORRECTED. LEN HOWARD SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
Police Clerk-
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE POLICE CLERK JOB DESCRIPTION AS CORRECTED. LEN HOWARD SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO GO INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION ON A PERSONNEL MATTER, WHICH THE DISCLOSURE OF AT THIS TIME MAY BE DETRIMENTAL TO THE TOWN AND/OR THE INDIVIDUALS. LEN HOWARD SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
Mike Ball stated that the board went into executive session @9:11 and came out @9:27 and no action was taken.
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO GO INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION ON A PERSONNEL MATTER, WHICH THE DISCLOSURE OF AT THIS TIME MAY BE DETRIMENTAL TO THE TOWN AND/OR THE INDIVIDUALS. LEN HOWARD SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
Mike Ball stated that the board went into executive session @9:30 and came out @9:37 and no action was taken.
No media present.
Lynda starorypinski made the motion to adjourn. ROBERT MILLER seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
Adjourned @9:38 PM.
NEXT MEETING WILL BE, June 15, 2009 @ 6:30 pm.
Respectfully submitted by ________________
Elaine Howard
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Vernon Selectboard Mtg. 6/1/09
Draft
Accepted as Printed______________
Accepted as Corrected _______________
VERNON SELECTBOARD MEETING
June 1, 2009 6:30 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERs Present:
Michael Ball Sandy Harris
Robert Miller, Jr. Dennis Harris
Len Howard Susan Miller
Michael Courtemanche Tom Hendricks
Lynda Starorypinski Faith Jobin
OTHERs Present: Margaret Frost
Chris Howe Lloyd Condon
Fred Sage Eleanor Allen
Marylyn King Kevin Turnley
Christina Carr Cindy Turnley
Annette Roydon John Stamatov Don Martin
WELCOME AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
At 6:30 pm Mike Ball called the meeting to order, welcomed those present and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT-
Sirens update-
Mike Courtemanche stated that on June 4th at 11:00 am Vernon residents will receive automated reverse 911 calls to inform everyone that the siren test which normally occurs on the first Saturday of each month will now be occurring on the third Thursday of each month at 7:00 pm. starting Thursday June 18th.
Mike Ball stated that with the number of Fairpoint outages it is important when there is a planned automated reverse call to send e-mails to Police, Fire and EOC for residents with auto dialers with life line at senior housing.
Bills & warrants-cindy
lynda starorypinski made the motion to approve warrants 29S/G, 21S, AND 22S. len howard seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Robert Miller made the motion to set the floaters Rate at $12.49. Lynda Starorypinski seconded the motion. The motion carried.
The board thanked Cindy.
Minute Approval
The following changes were made:
Correction under Public Comment last sentence should read all agreed to responses as written.
Page 2, correction in the pit off Route 142. Dump truck delete for these repairs. Under HRRR change major crashes to major accidents.
Lynda Starorypinski made the motion to accept the minutes of May 18, 2009 as corrected. Mike COURTEMANCHE SECONDED the motion. The motion carried.
Velco Presentation-Christina Carr
Christina Carr stated that she was asked to speak to the board because of some concerns residents had with the use of helicopters during construction of the Southern Loop Project.
Christina presented the board and others present with a DVD presentation of how the helicopters are used in this process. Mike Ball stated that the DVD along with a copy of the letter would be at the Library for all to review.
Mike Courtemanche stated that some of the concerns residents had were due to the fact that the plans stated that there would be the use of helicopters on a daily basics for an unspecified time during the two years of construction. John Stamatov (VELCO) stated that the overall project could take up to 18 months but the use of helicopters in Vernon would not be for that long of a period. The project runs from here to Cavendish from south to north. They would be through the Vernon area very quickly. They have not hired a line contractor as of yet and it would be the contractor’s choice on how they would utilize the use of helicopters.
Margaret Frost asked where the helicopters would be taking off. Christina stated that it would be at the Cersosimo gravel pit off of Route 142 closer to the railroad tracks and not in the actual pit itself. Mrs. Frost asked how many helicopters would be taking off per day.
John stated that one helicopter would be used but there would be a fair amount of trips from the lay down area to the work site on any given day.
VELCO also is proposing that instead of using the Miller Farm road, near the railroad crossing, to access their new substation in the VY yard, a new road be built on VY property that goes thru where the Miller Farm currently has an organic field. Christina stated that they have the Millers approval as well as Vermont Yankee for the road and have worked with the Millers respecting their organic field. The road will be 20’ wide and 1,500’ long.
Faith Jobin asked how close the proposed road was to her house. Christina gave her a map to show her where the new access road would be. This has not been submitted yet to Public Service Board and it is just a proposal. There is a process for this and for any questions or comments about this project call Christina Carr at VECO at 802-770-6357.
The board thanked Christina and John.
Act 250 permit Application-Seventh Day Advent Church
Mike Ball received a letter from the Chief of Police regarding the 250-permit application, which he stated that there would be no undo stress to the Police Department. Mike Ball stated he had not yet received a response from the Fire Department.
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to allow Mike Ball to sign the Act 250 Permit APPLICATION pending postive response from the Fire Department. Robert Miller seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Len Howard made the motion to take Personnel Matter out of order on the agenda. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. the motion carried
town office hours- Sandy Harris
Mike Ball stated that elected officials technically can set there own hours. Mike Ball had asked Sandy to coordinate with all the different offices and then bring it before the board so the board could educate the public. Sandy stated that she did talk it over with others in the building and she stated that the people who need the services the most are those who perform title searches and attorneys. Sandy stated that they are all grateful for the change in hours. Mike Courtemanche stated he was opposed to this and in the past when Sandy asked for this to be done the board wanted to get the publics opinion. That was never followed thru with. Mike stated that the next thing he knew the town had gone to a four-day workweek and it had been approved by the selectboard. Mike Courtemanche asked Mike Ball his response to this and he conveyed that elected officials working on the town side of the buildings are putting together a proposal for the selectboard. They are trying to work out the hours that they will be open to improve availability for all towns’ people as well as to save money by not heating or air conditioning one side of the building for a day. In addition the hours that the offices are open need to be communicated to the public. Mike Courtemanche stated that he didn’t see any of that happen. Mike stated that he didn’t agree with the way this was done. Len Howard stated the town of Brattleboro had looked into this and they found a four-day workweek would not save the town any money. Chris Howe conveyed her opinion and concerns regarding the new hours and stated that a survey to the town’s people would have been appreciated.
Faith Jobin also spoke against the new hours. It’s unfortunate that it happened this way. Sandy responded by saying that she takes appointments for people who can’t come in at the regular hours.
Lynda would like to see if the others in the building can accommodate the town’s people with appointments such as Sandy has stated that she could. Mike Ball stated that in three months this should be revisited to see if this is working out. With much discussion the board moved on.
The board thanked Sandy.
POLICE DEPARTMENT –ISSUES
Union Vote-The vote was held last Thursday, three voted yes and two did not vote. There is a ten workday period under the Rules of Practice for any objections to be filed concerning the conduct of the election. If no objections are filed then they will issue an order certifying the union. Len Howard has volunteered to be on the team of negotiations for management. The Police chief are not part of the voting of the union, it included Full/Part time officers certified officers.
Mike Courtemanche stated that in the Burlington Free Press they posted an article saying that Police Departments where under scrutiny due to invalid officer certifications. This included Vernon Police Department. Some Police Departments are scrambling to correct problems in their officers’ certification paperwork that has allowed some officers to stay on the job despite shortcomings in firearms training and other essential police skills. It was revealed that training reports alleging that an officer’s training was up to date lacked proper documentation or, in certain cases was inaccurate. Among those seeking waivers for some of their officers are agencies in small-towns like those in Dover and Vernon. Kevin responded by saying all if his officers are certified, and that he could get a letter from the state’s Criminal Justice Training Council that controls the police certification process to that fact.
Robert Miller stated that he noticed the lights on at the rec. department at night and wondered if they were on a motion senor, or timer, and if not could that be done. Mike Ball stated that was a question for the rec. department.
Kevin Turnley requested from the board to get approval to start the hiring process. The department is losing some part-time officers.
It was the consensus of the board to allow Lynda Starorypinski to be involved in the interviews.
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO allow the chief of police TO OPEN THE APPLICATION PROCESS. ROBERT MILLER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
The board gave Kevin a draft of the board expectations to look over and come back to the board with his input.
The board thanked Kevin.
OLD UNFINISHED BUSINESS-
VERECS-Mike Ball read a response regarding suppliers of scanning equipment and software for the purpose of the scanning of land records. Mike Courtemanche asked Sandy if she had any documentation for the board to review as part of the bid process. Sandy stated that she has a working relationship with CIS. Lynda had some concerns with the contact and future charges over the three year contract. Robert asked Sandy to get from some other vendors paperwork so the board could move on with this. This would be tabled to June 15th meeting.
Analysis –Dump truck-
The Cost Benefit Analysis performed by Mike Ball indicated a wash between repairing the truck and operating it for an additional year or buying a new truck There would be no net gain or loss either way. It was recommended replacing the Dump Truck since it already extended its useful life.
Mike Courtemanche made the motion that based on the analysis for the 1995 Dump Truck the board would consider the recommendations from David Walker’s on whether he will keep the truck or replace it. Robert miller seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Mrs. Frost stated that she had done some research on the aquifer and that in 1993 a consulting engineer performed a hydro geological study. Mrs. Frost stated the actual report was not available and her question was where should she go from here. Mike Ball stated that the Natural Resource Board would be her next step. Mike Ball stated that if the Town of Vernon has an aquifer it needs to be noted in the Town Plan.
WEB SITE-
Mike Courtemanche reported that the web site is on line with Sovernet. He is just waiting for input as a result of a meeting between mike Ball and Sandy regarding what the content of the site is to be. He is also waiting to receive PDF copies of the minutes and questioned who would be providing those.
SPEAKER PHONE-
Mike Courtemanche spoke with Mike Tatro, Consult-Techs, regarding the speaker phone and he will provide the quotes on analog phones for the board to review.
PERSONNEL EVALUATIONS-
The copy that the board has was not complete. Lynda will get a completed set.
LYNDA MADE THE MOTION TO ADOPT THE PRERFORMANCE REVIEW 2009 THAT IS USED BY THE TOWN OF BRATTLEBORO AS OUR OWN. ROBERT MILLER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
NEW BUSINESS-
The Planning Commission needs to have regular attendance at there meeting. Mike Ball stressed the importance of these meetings.
Len howard made the motion for Mike BALL TO draft a letter to the planning commission regarding the importance of the meeting. Robert miller seconded the motion. the motion carried.
Don Martin stated his complaints with the Police Department. Mike Ball stated that there is a policy and there are forms at the Town Clerks office to file a complaint.
Recreation Department-
Seasonal Employee Three Strike Attendance Policy-
In addition to the personnel policy handbook the Recreation Department would like to adopt a policy for seasonal employees.
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ADOPT THE SEASONAL EMPLOYEE THREE STRIKE ATTENDANCE POLICY FOR THE REC. DEPARTMENT. LEN HOWARD SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
Health Department-
LYNDA STARORYPINSKI MADE THE MOTION TO AUTHORIZE MIKE BALL SIGN THE TOWN HEALTH OFFICER RECOMMENDATIONS FORMS. ROBERT MILLER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
MKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO GO BACK IN ORDER ON THE AGENDA. LEN HOWARD SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
LEN HOWARD MADE THE MOTION TO GO INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION ON A PERSONNEL MATTER, WHICH THE DISCLOSURE OF AT THIS TIME MAY BE DETRIMENTAL TO THE TOWN AND/OR THE INDIVIDUALS INVOLVED. ROBERT MILLER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
Mike Ball stated that the board entered into executive session at 9:07 and came out at 9:14 and no action was taken.
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO AUTHORIZE MIKE BALL SIGN A LETTER DRAFTED BY THE TOWN ATTORNEY. ROBERT MILLER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO GO INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION ON A PERSONNEL MATTER, WHICH THE DISCLOSURE OF AT THIS TIME MAY BE DETRIMENTAL TO THE TOWN AND/OR THE INDIVIDUALS INVOLVED. ROBERT MILLER SECONDED THE MOTION CARRIED.
Mike Ball stated that the board entered into executive session at 9:17 and came out at 9:29 and no action was taken.
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ALLOW MIKE BALL TO ENTER INTO NEGOTIATIONS. ROBERT MILLER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
MEDIA
No media present.
Len howard made the motion to adjourn. mike courtemanche seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
Adjourned @9:30 PM.
NEXT MEETING WILL BE, June 3, 2009 @ 6:30 PM FOR A WORKING SESSION.
Respectfully submitted by ________________
Elaine Howard
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Vernon Selectboard Mtg. 5/18/09
Draft
Accepted as Printed______________
Accepted as Corrected _______________
VERNON SELECTBOARD MEETING
May 18, 2009 6:30 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHER Present:
Michael Ball David Andrews
Robert Miller, Jr. Tom Fox
Len Howard Sally Brassor
Michael Courtemanche David Walker
Lynda Starorypinski Fred & Cheryl Bauer
OTHER Present: Margaret Frost
Mario Buisa Marilyn King
Chris Howe Lloyd Condon
Larry Shippee
WELCOME AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
At 6:34 pm Mike Ball called the meeting to order and welcomed those present, and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT-Response to David Andrews
Mike Ball responded to concerns regarding several issues that David Andrews brought to the selectboard at the May 4th, meeting. Mike Ball addressed his issues by reading a detailed letter. One out of five board members agreed with all the responses in the letter.
Bills & warrants- Treasurer
lynda starorypinski made the motion to approve warrants 28S/G, 18S, 19S, AND 20S. len howard seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Mike Courtemanche stated his concerns regarding computer software purchased.
Lynda Starorypinski suggested that recycling on a monthly basis record the tonnage and cost per month. It was noted that this item would be on the new web site.
The board thanked Sally.
It was the consensus that the board go back to Public Comment to address others at the meeting.
Public Comment- Margaret Frost
Margaret Frost stated that she has written a letter to the Vernon Selectboard and also the Vernon Planning Board because she was not sure who to address this issue. Mrs. Frost stated that she and her husband had concerns when Cersosimo Lumber Company first applied for an Act 250 permit for gravel crushing at their pit off of Route 142. She stated that she was especially concerned now with the noise level in the immediate area, along with aquifer that the residents of Edgewood Drive receive their water along with many others in Vernon. There is currently other gravel pits in the area. Mrs. Frost stated that any updates with Act 250 permits have not been know to her because she has no received any notification of such.
Mike Ball stated that she could find information with the Town Clerks Office. Mike Ball will forward her letter to the Natural Resources Board.
Minute Approval
Len Howard made the motion to accept the minutes of May 4, 2009 as written. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Len Howard made the motion to accept the minues of May 13, 2009 as written. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Dump Truck-David Walker
David Walker stated that he took the 1995 Dump Truck to Twin State Truck Repairs and received a list of items and repairs that would need to be done to the truck. The cost for these repairs would be between $7,000and $8,000.00 for these repairs if parts are available. Some of these items include a new radiator and body pistons along with some minor replacement parts and labor. This is only work done to the chassis not the dump body which also needs some repairs.
Mike Ball stated that the cost to recoup these repairs would need to be considered. Mike Ball state that a cost benefit analysis should be done on the truck. Mike agreed that he would work it up for the next meeting. David Walker would move forward with the process of replacement on the truck.
Fire Department- updates David Andrews/Tom Fox
Tom Fox stated that the Fire Department sent out post cards to Vernon residents asking for volunteers. They are currently looking for new ideas to recruit new members. The board members suggested a few ideas that might get people in the door. David Andrews stated that the residents need to come and check out the department and see the changes within the Department. Len Howard attended a meeting at the Fire Department and was very impressed with how the meeting was held. Len also stated that volunteers have to make a big commitment when they join the Fire Department or any other agency. It not a part time commitment like years passed. Robert Miller stated that the biggest asset the Fire Department has is the Explorer Program for our future fire fighters. Recruitment should also include for the Explorer Program.
David Andrews stated that the Department has applied for grants to replace there air packs. The Fire Department has generated funds from other avenues using a minimal amount of town funds. David stated that there is some consideration in billing for services possibly though insurance claims via homeowners, or vehicle insurance. David Andrews stated that if there is anyone in town come down and take a look. There meetings are Thursday evenings once a month and drills every Thursday night.
The board requested that the Fire Department meet with them quarterly to give updates. It was agreed that the next update would be in August.
The board thanked David and Tom.
Len Howard made the motion to take a five minute recess @ 7:45. Robert Miller seconded the motion. The motion carried.
The board returnED from recess @ 7:54.
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to take HRRR Programs out of order on the agenda. Len HowaRD SECONDED THE MOTION. tHE MOTION CARRIED.
hrrr pROGRAM-
Vermont Agency of Transportation has developed a High Risk Rural Road Program (HRRR) to help implement low cost safety improvements targeted at reducing major crashes. Tyler Hill Road was selected due to some major crashes. David Walker would be the official to oversee this project for the town.
mIKE cOURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ALLOW dAVID wALKER to MOVE FORWARD WITH THE hrrr pROGRAM AND TO authorize mIKE BALL TO sign the letter of requirement. Lynda Starorypinski seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to go back in order on the agenda. Len howard seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Town Clerk-Verecs System
It was the consensus of the board to tablet this for the next meeting.
RESCUE Contract
Len Howard made the motion to authorize Mike Ball to sign The contract for the provision of emergency medical services. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. The moition carried.
VLCT –POLICY DEVELOPMENT INPUT
VLCT- Legislative Policy Committee Nomination Form
Mike Ball stated that if any board members have comments please sent the forms in to VLCT.
New/Unfinished Business
Mike Courtemanche updated the board about the new web site. The next step would be to decide what would be on the web site.
Speaker Phone-
It was the consensus of the board to table this to the next meeting.
The board set a date to finalize Job Descriptions for June 3, 2009 at 6:30 pm.
The board acknowledged the many residents who attended the meeting with there concerns with the noise level stemming from the gravel operation on Route 142.
MEDIA
No media present.
Lynda starorypinski made the motion to adjourn. ROBERT MILLER seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
Adjourned @9:12 PM.
NEXT MEETING WILL BE, June 1, 2009 @ 6:30 pm.
Respectfully submitted by ________________
Elaine Howard
Dear Mr. Andrews:
You appeared before the Vernon Selectboard on the night of the 5/4/09 and asked some questions as well as made some accusations. This is our response to follow-up email.
Please consider that the make-up of each Board is different depending on the personalities and life experience that the members bring with them. This Board has set its priorities for the year by reviewing what was done recently, what needs finishing and what needs to be done. Of course, events will occur and our priorities will have to be rearranged to accommodate said events. None the less, we will continue to stay on course and accomplish our major priorities.
As you know, the Board commissioned an audit of the Vernon Police Department by a recognized expert within the police community last year. This audit provided specific findings. A performance improvement plan as well as milestones have been identified and are being worked.
When you last came before the Board, you were very clear that you and the Vernon Fire Department members were extremely upset at remarks made by the Board re. toning and the EMS staffing. You asked that in the future, the Board consult with the Fire Department to get the facts prior to making damning comments on local television. Yet within minutes, you, the Assistant Chief of the Fire Department and an accomplished communicator, launched a series of accusations against another department without first consulting that department head.
As a Board, we agreed that the Vernon Fire Department should have been consulted. We agreed that, in the future, we would do so for all departments to avoid damning public comments that may not be based entirely in fact. We ask that you do the same.
Here are the responses to the other questions/comments:
1. As stated above, the Board will place a different priority than what your Board may have. There has recently been liability issues raised concerning the Bid Policy and we have had serious inconsistencies with the selling of un-needed Town equipment. It was decided that the Bid Policy would be updated to require proof of insurance to be provided along with the bid so that that during the bid reviews could ensure the bidding company met our requirements. In addition, the new policy for “unwanted items” has been drafted and is out for review.
2. The “Continuum of Force” policy as well as the “Taser” policy has been in draft form since probably 2004. A number of Boards have reviewed them including the Board you served on. All of the police officers are trained and certified for the use of the equipment that they currently carry. These two policies are required to put into place additional equipment (Taser and bean bag shotgun) that can both incapacitate and kill, and were not part of the curriculum that the officers were originally trained to. These policies are in draft and will be reviewed in the near future.
3. (As detailed in General Comment #2,-delete this prepositional phrase and begin)
4. Getting VPPRS and NPERS data into the system requires trained personnel into the system. As you know, a new Police Department Clerk has been hired and needs training. The Pittsford Academy offers this training and the Clerk has been registered. Unfortunately, the training has been rescheduled or canceled. The goal is to get the information into the two systems before the end of the year.
5. See specific response #2
6. As previously stated in a recent meeting (4/13/09), emails between Board members are to distribute information and not for deliberation, unless there is an immediate need that will then be vetted by official vote at the next meeting. It is the goal to set-up the web site so that both the minutes as well as any emails sent between are available to review. Currently all emails are available but it requires asking for copies.
7. The individual has come before the Board specifically for the purpose for why his name was put on the agenda. It was a mistake and we will try not to let it happen again.
8. I requested the information from David Walker for the basics of the EOC bus; I will then add the rest of the emergency equipment to the description after I receive that. Because the EOC bus has been around for such a long time, it was assumed (maybe incorrectly) that no other department would want it. If the Fire Department would like the wide band radio that is in the bus, the Board does not have a problem if the FD removes it. The rest of the equipment needs to stay with the vehicle. As discussed above, the “unwanted item” policy is meant to prevent the reoccurrence of what happened with the Fire Department Suburban and the old Town Van.
9. The Board is moving to have all of the ordinances and policies in PDF form so that we just update the website when a new policy or ordinance is issued: saving time and money. Until that occurs we will have to distribute them in hard-copy. I do not know why the FD did not receive a copy: you will. In the future, a phone call to the Town Clerk’s office would have resolved this instead of waiting for a response from the Board.
10. There have been serious inconsistencies in how items have been disposed of. This has resulted in the Town losing money and a lot of time being wasted. When I drafted the “unwanted item” policy, the Board felt that it may be too cumbersome for the departments to use, so it was sent out asking for comments. The Board will have an “unwanted item” policy and is now requesting input how to make it better. So please provide the response as directed.
We hope that this letter answers the queries you posed; however, if clarification is needed, please let us know how we can best serve you. We look forward to seeing you and Chief Fox tonight.
From: David Andrews [n1esk@comcast.net]
Sent: Tuesday, May 05, 2009 7:10 PM
To: mikecout@myfairpoint.net; lynda_star@hotmail.com; Ball, Michael A; finelineauto@hotmail.com; len5353003@yahoo.com
Subject: Public Comments form last nights VSB meeting
All,
Here are the comments from last night’s VSB meeting. I look forward to a response at the next meeting.
1. “I can’t understand why the board is choosing to place on the front burner items such as a policy to dispose of surplus times and a new ID theft policy while many old issues that should have been settled some time ago sit uncompleted. While the police department issues sat for so long, the employees took matters into their own hands and started actions towards a Union. You will now spend many more hours dealing with the Union that could be spent on other topics.
2. Where is the use of force policy? Why do you tolerate police officers carrying weapons around town with no approved, vetted policy for their use?
3. Why can’t I see the towns crime statistics on the State website? I thought the police chief promised to fix that almost a year ago.
4. Where is the Taser policy?
5. All emails between members of the board should be made public without the public needing to ask, and should be included with the minutes of previous meetings.
6. An individual’s name on the agenda for a personnel matter? Wasn’t this discussed previously as inappropriate?”
7. During the VSB meeting on April 20th, a decision was made to place the EOC bus for sale with a minimum bid of $2500, and to place an advertisement with VLCT for their website. Has this action been taken? As of this afternoon, it’s not listed on the web. If this item is going out to bid, will the town’s residents be informed? Is there a closing date for bids? Or has the bid process been changed? Also, why is the town selling all the two-way radios with the bus, and what controls are being taken to ensure the radios will not be operated on our frequencies without our authorization? What happens if no bids are received greater than $2500 by the undetermined deadline? I would think the lessons learned from the Suburban sale would be applied here.
8. I understand there is a new bid policy. The fire department hasn’t seen it. Can we kindly have a copy? Are we the only ones without it, or did it not get distributed?
9. The board wants comments from departments regarding the draft surplus goods policy. The opinion of the VFD is this is just another unwanted and unneeded policy, along with a good portion of the other policies on file. In the last month alone, VFD exchanged unwanted goods with the town clerk and the town hall. Both exchanges worked easily and simply, yet both exchanges would have violated the draft policy. There is no need to regulate common sense.
Regards,
David Andrews
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Vernon Selectboard Mtg. 4/28/09
Draft
Accepted as Printed______________
Accepted as Corrected _______________
VERNON SELECTBOARD SPECIAL MEETING
April 28, 2009 6:30 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT: MEMBERS ABSENT:
Michael Ball Robert Miller Jr.
Michael Courtemanche
Len Howard
Lynda Starorypinski
WELCOME AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
At 6:31 pm Mike Ball called the meeting to order, welcomed those present and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Mike Courtemanche stated that BCTV is going through some overhauls and the problem with the sound that viewers were experiencing the last two meetings was determined to be on their end. They have fixed the problem. Mike Ball stated anyone can call 257-0292 with any questions or comments during the meetings.
Wrc Appointment
Lynda Starorypinski made the motion to appoint Annette ROYDON AS a second person on the Windham Regional Commission. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Len Howard made the motion to take New/Old business out of order on the agenda. Mike courtemanche seconded the motion. The motion carried.
New/unfinished business-
Liquor license- Nesbitt’s Portside Tavern
len howard made the motion to accept and sign the first class liquor license application for nesbitt’s portside Tavern. Lynda starorypinski seconded the motion. the motion carried.
mike courtemanche made the motion to accept and sign the 2009 tobacco application for nesbitt’s portside Tavern. len howard seconded the motion. the motion carried.
Mike courtemanche made the motion to accept the annual finanical (mileage certification) plan for the town highway department for submittal to the state. lynda starorypinski seconded the motion. the motion carried.
land owner agreement-Green Mt. Forestry
The board was presented with a Letter of Agreement for services in conducting a timber clearing and sale in the town forest. Len Howard reported that the highway department has groomed the road for the log trucks to get access.
mike courtemanche made the motion to sign the letter of agreement with green mt. forestry along with the subcontractor’s agreement with twin state forestry with the caveat that copies of liabity insurance and workman’s compensation be on file with the Town clerks office. Len howard seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Mike Ball stated that he would include the waiver and release of liability with the signed agreement back to Green Mt. Forestry. It was noted that woodlot people would need to see the Town Treasurer to make their payments for the wood.
Trash/Recycling Update-
Mike Courtemanche stated that Vernon has received lots of attention with the composting project. Brattleboro is also starting its own program. He stated Vernon residents would not have to take their composting to Brattleboro because we would have our own dumpster but this is still in the planning stages and. Vernon is working on getting this project off the ground. Len Howard stated that people are dropping off items at the highway garage recycling containers that are not recyclables such as microwaves and other household trash. Just a reminder that only cardboard, glass bottles, aluminum cans, newspaper, paper and books are allowable items to be dropped off at the bins. Mike Courtemanche stated that the town is over budget for trash pickup this year and the recycling committee is looking into ways we can get this under control.
Green –Up-Update
Mike Ball stated that all was under control. Len Howard would talk to the highway Department for pick-up of the bags. Mike Ball would talk to the Police Chief about patrols during green-up day.
Mike courtemanche made the motion to go back in the order of the agenda to working session. len howard seconded the motion. The motion passed.
Work session
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to go into executive session on a personnel matter which the disclosure of at this time might be detrimental to the town and /or individuals involved. Lynda starorypinski seconded the motion. the motion carried.
Mike Ball stated that the board had entered into execution session at 7:12 and came out at 8:00 and no action was taken.
mike courtmanche made the motion to authorize the Town Attorney to issue a letter dated 4/21/09 pending Mike Ball’s investigation. Len HowARD SECONDED THE MOTION. tHE MOTION CARRIED.
Len howaRD made the motion to adjourn. MIKE COURTEMANCHE seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
Adjourned @8:04 PM.
NEXT MEETING WILL BE, May 4, 2009 @ 6:30 PM.
Respectfully submitted by ________________
Elaine Howard
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Vernon Selectboard Mtg. 4/20/09
Draft
Accepted as Printed______________
Accepted as Corrected _______________
VERNON SELECTBOARD MEETING
April 20, 2009 6:30 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHER MEMBERS:
Michael Ball Scott Lane
Robert Miller, Jr. Richard Coutant
Len Howard Sally Brassor
Michael Courtemanche Chris Kempf
Lynda Starorypinski Steve Skibniowsky
David McElwee
Steve Hardy
WELCOME AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
At 6:31 pm Mike Ball called the meeting to order and welcomed those present, and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT
No public comments at this time.
TOWN ATTORNEY- RICHARD COUTANT
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to go into executive session with the Town Attorney Richard Coutant on a personnel MATTER, WHICH the disclosure of at this time may be detrimental to the town and/or the individuals involved. LEN HOWARD SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
Mike Ball stated that the board had entered into executive session at 6:36 and came out at 7:18 and no action was taken.
The board thanked Richard Coutant.
Bills & warrants- Treasurer
lynda starorypinski made the motion to approve warrants 26S/G, 14S, AND 15S. mike courtemanche seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Len Howard stated that he would like to express that people should car-pool whenever possible to make it less costly for the town for reimbursements on expenses. After much discussion the board received a call from David Andrews about the charges and stated that seven people went to a training along with their equipment which they car-pooled using separate cars. The Fire Department tried to schedule the town bus but it was booked and in the future the Fire Department would continue to try to schedule the town bus for these events.
Len Howard made the motion to send a memo to all department heads expressing the need to car pool whenever possible. Lynda Starorypinski seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Invested Funds-Updates
Town Retirement Funds
Sally presented the board with a spreadsheet of the Town of Vernon Invested Funds. These funds are currently with Chittenden Bank and are doing well. There are no issues with these.
However Sally also presented the board with an actuarial valuation study for 2008 from Ricci Consultants for The Town of Vernon’s Retirement Plan. The assets have declined due to severe market conditions and a contribution from the town for 2009 is recommended. It is also recommended to do a full actuarial valuation for 2009. Ricci Consultants understands that our budget process begins in October of 2009 therefore contributions would begin during the fiscal year July 1, 2010.
Lynda Starorypinski made the motion to authorize Sally to contact Ricci Consultants to do an Actuarial Valuation for the fall of 2009. Len Howard seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Sally stated that Annette asked for a check for the sum of $200.00 for the Green- Up committee.
Len Howard made the motion allow sally to write a check for the sum of $200.00 for the Green-up. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Lynda Starorypinski stated that requests for checks, which occur on an annual basis, should be planned ahead to be included in the warrant and not requested at the last minute.
The board thanked Sally.
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to take VY Fence project out of order on the agenda. Robert Miller seconded the motion. The motion carried.
VY Fence Project-
Dave McElwee and Steve Skibniowsky presented the board with a prepared exhibit describing the purposed fence project. Entergy VY plans to construct a new perimeter fence to be located at the VY station, which would clearly define the sites property boundaries. The fence would be a fixed knot galvanized farm fence approximately six feet tall. Some portions of the fence would be chain link style fence in order to provide gate access. Provisions would be made to install electrical power supply for powering a monitoring system. The Miller Farm will still have access to the field and there will be no new roads or lighting. Land abutters will have the option to request shrubbery where it is visible from Governor Hunt road. This project would not change the station’s operations or impact the use of the agricultural land.
It was the consensus of the board to have Vice Chair Mike Courtemanche sign for the board.
Lynda Starorypinski made the motion that if there IS no issues with the planning commission the board will allow Mike Courtemanche to sign the letter authorizing the VY Fence project to move forward. Len howard seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Robert Miller made the motion to go back to the order on the agenda. Len howard seconded the mottion. The motion carried.
Town Clerk-Liquor License
SchoolHouse Grocery is requesting to renew their liquor license.
Len Howard made the motion to approve the application renewal liquor license for 2009 FOR SchoolHouse Grocery. Lynda Starorypinski seconded the motion. The motion carried.
petroleum bid opening-
David Walker placed an invitation to bid for the Town of Vernon Petroleum Products in the local newspaper. Only one bid was received by Sandri. The quoted prices are for 27,000 gallons. With heating oil at $2.084 per gallon, winter blend at $2.384 per gallon, Summer diesel $ 2.084 per gallon and unleaded gasoline $ 2.184 per gallon. These prices are down significantly from last year’s prices.
mike courtemanche made the motion to accept the bid from sandri. Robert Miller seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Update Bid Policy Approval-
Added to the bid policy:
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to accept the bid policy as amended and have it retyped for the board members to sign. Len howard seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Unwanted Material Policy Approval-
Mike Courtemanche stated that the Disposal of Goods seems to be too broad of a description on the items to be disposed of.
It was the consensus of the board to let the department heads look over the purposed disposal of surplus goods and get back to the board with their input.
Police Department Job descriptions Review-
It was decided that any corrections that need to be made after the board has looked over the job descriptions would be done by Chris Howe. The updated ones would be copied and when all was done the board would then adopt them all at one time.
The following corrections were made to the Police Chief’s job description as follows:
The following corrections were made to the Full-Time/Part-Time Police Officer’s job descriptions as follows:
The Police Clerk had no corrections.
Mike Courtemanche made a motion to accept the Police department job descriptions as corrected. Len howard seconded the motion. The motion carried.
New/Unfinished Business
Town Forest-Steve Hardy
It was decided that the Town Forest Supervisor Ted Castine and Assistant Rick Castine would work with Steve to coordinate the woodlot winners to start cutting their lots. Steve will get the list of woodlot winners to set up the protocol in the woods. It was discussed that the town would need a waiver form before there is any cutting and that would be checked out with Sally. After speaking about the woodlots the discussion turned to the clearing/upkeep of the town forest. Steve stated that it would be roughly about 100 acres to be harvested and it is primarily a low market valve at this time, with the exception of the hemlock pulp market, which is strong at this time. With the limited market opportunities there is not really a need to put it out to bid because no one will bid on it. Lynda concurred with this statement. Steve purposes to contract a logging crew, a specialized crew that will utilize that wood. This operation would be very effective, as the brush would be distributed along other parts of the forest floor. With this thinning of the forest we are trying to convert the forest from a 90% hemlock forest to an oak, pine forest. Green Mountain Forestry will contract Twin State Forestry to come in and do the harvesting. Steve conveyed that this company does a nice clean job. The Town of Vernon would approximately gross $20,000-$25,000.00 after expenses. The crew would be ready to start in another week and a half. The crew would turn in load summaries weekly to the town treasurer of the gross valve.
Lynda Starorypinski made the motion to start the harvest of the town forest and for Green Mountain Forestry to subcontract Twin State Forestry to do the harvest @35% gross for the saw logs and $1.50 per ton on the pulp wood. Also to authorize Mike Ball to sign the Contract. Robert Miller seconded the motion. The motion carried.
It was discussed that the board send letters with a waiver to the woodlot winners with in the next two weeks. The board secretary will e-mail Steve with the list of winners and telephone numbers as well as the Town Forest Supervisors contact information so that he may contact them for a meeting.
Bid- Suburban
Mike Ball announced that the winning bid on the Suburban is Paul T. Cornell.
Robert Miller made the motion to accept the bid from Paul Cornell in the amount of $1100.00 for the 1995 Chevy Suburban. Len Howard seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Robert Miller agreed to help the Fire Department to remove the equipment that is currently on the Suburban.
Len Howard stated that he talked with Annette Roydon about the EOC bus and that this could go out for bid.
It was the consensus of the board to post it in the VLCT web site with a minimum bid of $2500.00 with the lights and other equipment.
Mike Ball will put together the description then the board secretary can post it.
New Business
Mike Ball presented the board with some job evaluations for the board to look over and to discuss at a later date.
Len Howard stated that he had been contacted by folks in regards to the Fire and Rescue Department about the retones though mutual aid. Mike Ball stated that the Department needs to increase numbers on the EMS side. With EMS week coming up in May this is a good time to try and get new members. The town is basically okay for now but the EMS members are currently going to get burnt out.
MEDIA
No media present.
Lynda starorypinski made the motion to adjourn. ROBERT MILLER seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
Adjourned @9:30 PM.
NEXT MEETING WILL BE, April 28, 2009 @ 6:30 PM FOR A WORKING SESSION.
Respectfully submitted by ________________
Elaine Howard
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Vernon Town School Board
Minutes of Regular Meeting, April 13, 2009
Directors present: Mike Hebert, Deb Hebert, Bill Ellis, Marylynn Scherlin, Walter Breau.
Directors absent: none.
Also present: Treasurer Sally Brassor (departed at 6:57 p.m.), Ron Stahley, John Reed, Joan Cook, Tonia Smith, LeighAnn Cwikowski, Stephen M. Cwikowski, Nancy Paciorek.
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Chair Mike Hebert.
Hearing no objections, the board chair rearranged the agenda.
Executive Session at 6:02 p.m. on a motion by Deb Hebert and seconded by Bill Ellis on a student issue. Ron Stahley, John Reed and several interested parties were present. The board came out at 6:25 p.m. with the chair reporting no action was taken.
Ron Stahley updated the board on the VES principal search. 17 applications, 12 forwarded to the screening committee, 7 to be interviewed. May 4, 2009—morning 8:30-2:00 for focus forums and finalist interviews by the board.
Marylynn Scherlin will step aside as a School Board Director, effective today, April 13, 2009, while legal action is pursued. Within 30 days, the board will solicit applicants and appoint a replacement school board director, serving out the remainder of the term, or until such time as a legal judgment is made reinstating Ms. Scherlin.
Administrative Reports: Report from John Reed covering VES Technology Plan.
Meeting recessed from 7:03-9:08 p.m. to attend WSESU District Meeting
Old Business:
New Business
The meeting adjourned at 9:30 p.m. on a motion from Bill Ellis and seconded by Deb Hebert.
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Vernon Selectboard Mtg. 4/13/09
Draft
Accepted as Printed______________
Accepted as Corrected _______________
VERNON SELECTBOARD SPECIAL MEETING
April 13, 2009 6:00 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Mike Ball David Walker
Mike Courtemanche Richard Coutant
Robert Miller-7:10 Frank Johnson
Len Howard
Lynda Starorypinski
WELCOME AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
At 6:09 pm Mike Ball called the meeting to order, welcomed those present and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Public comment
No public comment at this time.
WORKING Session with Town Attorney
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to go into executive session with richard coutant our town attorney, Mike Coughlin, Frank Johnson and possibility Sally Brassor on a personnel matter which the disclosure of at this time might be detrimental to the town and /or the individuals involved. Len howard seconded the motion. the motion carried.
Mike Ball stated that the board had entered into execution session at 6:09 and came out at 6:26 and no action was taken.
Frank Johnson joined the board to discuss his doctor’s note and him wanting to come back to work. It was the consensus of the board and to protect parties involved to contact Frank Johnson’s doctor to get more information. Frank gave permission for the board to do so. Lynda Starorypinski would be working with contacting his doctor. Frank Johnson indicated that he was ready to go to work right now. The board thanked Frank for is dedication.
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to go into executive session with richard coutant our town attorneyand David Walker on a personnel MATTER, WHICH the disclosure of at this time might be detrimental to the town and /or the individuals involved. Len howard seconded the motion. the motion carried.
Mike Ball stated that the board had entered into execution session at 6:33 and came out at 6:55 and no action was taken.
LYNDA STARORYPINSKI MADE THE MOTION TO AUTHORIZE DAVID WALKER TO START THE PROCESS TO HIRE A PERSON FOR EQUIPMENT OPERATOR/MECHANIC. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Police Union
Mr. Dixon from the National Brotherhood of Police Officers only will represent full time officers. One person from the highway department would not be represented. The board filed a letter to the State of Vermont Labor Relations in the matter.
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to go into executive session with richard coutant our town attorney on a personnel MATTER, WHICH the disclosure of at this time might be detrimental to the town and /or the individuals involved. Len howard seconded the motion. the motion carried.
Mike Ball stated that the board had entered into execution session at 7:01 and came out at 7:52 and no action was taken.
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to take Discussion on Board Decorum out of order on the agenda. Len Howard Seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Lynda Starorypinski asked Richard Coutant about e-mails and how the board should conduct discussions. Richard Coutant stated that the board should not discuss pending matters or decisions in e-mails. No decisions could be made through e-mails unless you ratify the decision at the next board meeting. Mike Ball stated all e-mails are available for anyone to review. It is the board’s intent that once the new web site is complete in addition to the minutes being posted, e-mails would also be posted. It is the intent to have a better system to capture emails when the new selectboard web page goes on-line.
Lynda Starorypinski also asked that the new members receive an informational packet on the first day they take office to make the learning curve much easier. The board agreed that should happen in the future.
The board thanked Richard Coutant.
Robert Miller made the motion to go back to the order on the agenda. Mike Courtemanche seconded the MOTION. The Motion carried.
BIDs-SUBURBAN
No bids had been received at this time.
It was the consensus of the board to repost the ad on the VLCT web site with a closing date of May 18th.
Len Howard asked the status on the EOC Bus that’s currently at the highway garage and should that also be up for bid.
It was also the consensus of the board to have Len Howard contact Annette Roydon about the status on the bus.
WISH LISTS-AGENDA ITEMS
Mike Ball stated that the board needs to stay focused on items to be completed.
It is the board’s wish to get the job descriptions done by the end of the month to move forward with the salary grid. It was decided to have Chris Howe bring the job descriptions to the board on the 20th of April. David Walker asked if he should wait to hire anyone until the job descriptions are done. Mike Ball believes this would be done by the time that happens. Lynda Starorypinski would be able to provide the board with some simple evaluations for the board to look over.
New/Old Unfinished Business
Mike Ball stated that he has a letter to be signed for the Town Service Officer, Marylyn Scherlin.
Robert Miller made the motion to have three selectboard members sign the letter to designate Marylynn Scherlin as Town Service Officer. Lynda Starorypinski seconded the motion. the motion carried.
EOC Drill is set for Wednesday April 15, 2009. Some selectboard members will be present. With no other discussion at this time to board moved on.
Media
No media present.
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to adjourn. Lynda Starorypinski seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
Adjourned @8:45 PM.
NEXT MEETING WILL BE, April 20, 2009 @ 6:30 PM
Respectfully submitted by ________________
Elaine Howard
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Vernon Selectboard Mtg. 4/10/09
Draft
Accepted as Printed______________
Accepted as Corrected _______________
VERNON SELECTBOARD SPECIAL MEETING
April 10, 2009 3:00 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Mike Courtemanche-Acting Chair
Robert Miller
Len Howard
Lynda Starorypinski 3:10
MEMBERS ABSENT:
Mike Ball
WELCOME AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
At 3:05 pm Vice Chair Mike Courtemanche called the meeting to order, welcomed those present and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
THE PURPOSE OF THIS MEETING WAS TO REVIEW and approve A LETTER TO THE STATE OF VERMONT
LABOR RELATIONS BOARD RE. NO. 0907IBPO-TOWN OF VERNON.
Mike Courtemanche passed the letter around to board members allowing them to review it while he explained the purpose of the letter and the need to send it.
LEN HOWARD MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE LETTER AS WRITTEN AND HAVE mIKE cOURTEMANCHE IN THE ABSEnce OF mIKE bALL SIGN THE APPROVED LETTER TO THE STATE OF VERMONT LABOR RELATIONS Board. rOBERT MILLER SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED.
rOBERT mILLER made the motion to adjourn. lEN hOWARD seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
Adjourned @3:18 PM.
NEXT MEETING WILL BE, April 13, 2009 @ 6:30 PM
Respectfully submitted by ________________
Elaine Howard
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Vernon Selectboard Mtg. 4/6/09
Draft
Accepted as Printed______________
Accepted as Corrected _______________
VERNON SELECTBOARD SPECIAL MEETING
April 6, 2009 6:30 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Mike Courtemanche-Acting Chair Tom Hendricks
Robert Miller Sally Brassor
Len Howard Chris Howe
Lynda Starorypinski Robert Spencer
Seth Deyo
Sarah Deyo
MEMBERS ABSENT: Linda Shippee
Mike Ball Scott Lane
WELCOME AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
At 6:32 pm Vice Chair Mike Courtemanche called the meeting to order, welcomed those present and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Public comment
No public comment at this time.
MINUTE APPROVAL
Lynda Starorypinski made the motion to accept the minutes of March 30, 2009 as written. Len Howard seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Robert Miller made a motion to take the Cemetery Committee out of order on the agenda. Len Howard Seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Cemetery Committee- Chris Howe
Chris Howe asked the board for a vote on a one year or two year contract for Howe Lawn Care. The Cemetery Committee would prefer a two year contract. Howe Lawn Care has agreed to the two year contract for the same amount of money. Chris Howe stated that Howe Lawn Care has done a wonderful job and there have been no complaints. Mike Courtemanche read the minutes of December 1, 2008 in which the board had already agreed to contract out to Howe Lawn for the upcoming season of 2009. Mike Courtemanche then read the new revised bid policy which states, “ The option to provide one or two years especially if the two year option provides financial benefit to the Town and the vendor has demonstrated equal to or better than acceptable performance. In addition the existing vendor can be extended for up to one year provided that they have demonstrated equal or better than acceptable performance. Chris Howe then asked if the board wanted to sign a two year or one year contract. It was the consensus of the board to sign a one year contract and wait until after November 09 to extend Howe Lawn Care’s contract an additional year if they continued to provide exceptional service. Sally Brassor asked if he could provide proof of insurance for each year. Chris Howe will add to the contract that proof of insurance needs to be provided to the Town Treasurer each year. The selectboard signed the contract for April to November of 09.
The board thanked Chris.
Len Howard made the motion to go back in order to Bills and Warrants on the agenda. Robert Miller seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Bills and Warrants-Sally Brassor
Lynda Starorypinski made the motion to approve the following warrants 25S/G and 13S, also to ratify 24S/G, 12S from March 30th. Len Howard seconded the motion. the motion carried.
The board thanked Sally.
recycling & Composting-Robert Spencer
Robert Spencer presented the board with a hand out entailing recommendations and a costs/savings analysis if the town were to move ahead and begin to recycle organic materials. Mr. Spencer suggested that the Town of Vernon could utilize what the school is already doing in regards to organic composting and if it was successful we could add an additional bin at the town garage. To make a residential drop-off program for organics successful will require public education. Mr. Spencer stated that there is grant money for education on this program from the WSWMD. Additionally, the town of Brattleboro will begin a pilot program in May for residents to drop off organics at the WSWMD facility. There are still many details that need to be worked out and Mr. Spencer asked the board if they would like to proceed further with this program. It was the consensus of the board that we should move forward with this. Mr. Spencer will continue to work with Mike Courtemanche and the new recycling committee to move forward. Also, the residents of Vernon can purchase their own back yard composting bins from WSWMD which are now available.
The board thanked Mr. Spencer.
Robert Miller made the motion to take Equipment-Speakerphone out of order from the agenda. Len Howard seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Equipment-Speaker Phone
In was the consensus of the board to table this for another meeting once we get some comparison quotes.
len howard made the motion to go back in order to recreation department/Preschool playground. robert miller seconded the motion. the motion carried.
recreation department/Preschool playground
Preschool Playground Proposal-Seth Deyo and Linda Shippee presented the board with a proposal to construct a fenced in “play area” location between the North School and the parking lot. The fence would be chain link with post anchors with a storage shed. Seth Deyo would like the board’s approval with this project. The board asked Seth about insurance issues. Seth would check to see if the policy covers others whom might use the play area such as playgroups using the library. Len Howard asked about maintenance and the cost to the residents. The project would be funded with “Bridge Grant” monies made available through partnership with the school board. The board’s only concern is with other children not of the preschool classroom using the space and how that affects the liability insurance. The board thanked Seth and Linda.
Lynda Starorypinski made the motion to approve the Preschool proposal to move forward with constructing a fenced in play area if insurance allows other chidren to use the space with the funds coming from the bridge grant. Robert Miller seconded the motion. The motion carried. 3 ayes, 1 nay.
Finalize “agenda item wish list”
There was much discussion about very old items still on the list needing to be done such as the Personnel Policies and Job Descriptions. Lynda Starorypinski is working with Chris Howe on getting the Job Descriptions done. Mike Courtemanche would like this completed as well hopefully by the end of the month.
New/Old Unfinished Business
Mike Courtemanche wanted to discuss some confusion regarding a letter from the town attorney discussing membership applications for the Fire Department. Robert Miller stated that he contacted the attorney while he was chairman regarding physical exams and incomplete applications. The attorney stated it is not acceptable for an applicant to insist that the required physical examination be conducted by the applicants own physician. And if the applicant refuses to under- go this examination the Fire Department may and should reject the application.
The board received notice from the Town Clerk that Ted and Richard Castine were interested in the positions of Town Forest Supervisor and Assistant.
Robert Miller made the motion to appoint Richard and Ted Castine as Town Forest Supervisor and Assistant. Len Howard seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Vernon Town Picnic will be held on June 27th, 2009. Board members will need to discuss if they want to set up a booth. The Picnic Committee will need to know by May 15th.
Discussions on past and up coming trainings. Lynda Starorypinski and Len Howard attended a training and recommended that other members should also attend because many things have changed or have been added.
There was a discussion about requests for salary increases. The board felt this shouldn’t be considered until the job descriptions are completed and the salary grid is completed. The priority of these items will be upgraded on the “Select board Wish List”.
The Select Board has been asked if they would be interested in participating with the interview process for hiring a new principal at the elementary school. Town employees who interact with the principal position would also be encouraged to participate. Lynda Starorypinski and Mike Courtemanche gladly volunteered. Len will ask members of the highway department if anyone would be interested.
Mike Courtemanche brought up the fact that he had been told the Police Department computers are out dated and still accessing the internet via a dial up connection. Mike would move forward researching this and would try to get them on board with the rest of the building.
Mike Courtemanche stated that Mrs. Durborow had asked about the cell phone towers in a past meeting. Mike stated that due to the buy outs and changes from Unicel to AT&T he no longer has any valid contact information. Mike was able to get in touch with their attorneys from the project who confirmed the work had been completed and the tower now belongs to AT&T.
Media
No media present.
LEN HOWARD made the motion to adjourn. ROBERT MILLER seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
Adjourned @8:05 PM.
NEXT MEETING WILL BE, April 13, 2009 @ 6:30 PM
Respectfully submitted by ________________
Elaine Howard
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Vernon Town School Board
Minutes of Regular Meeting, March 23, 2009
Directors present: Mike Hebert, Deb Hebert, Bill Ellis, Walter Breau.
Directors absent: Marylynn Scherlin.
Also present: Treasurer Sally Brassor (departed at 6:18 p.m.), Ron Stahley, Chris Nesbitt, Nancy Christmas (departed at 7:30 p.m.), Mary Greve (departed at 6:33 p.m.).
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Chair Mike Hebert.
Executive Session at 6:18 p.m. on a motion by Deb Hebert and seconded by Bill Ellis on a student issue. Ron Stahley, John Reed and a parent were also present. The parent exited the session at 6:33 p.m. The board came out at 6:43 p.m. with the chair reporting no action was taken.
The board approved a motion by Deb Hebert and seconded by Bill Ellis to approve, contingent upon receipt by the board requested documentation of the medical condition as outlined from the parent involved, the payment of secondary tuition for a Vernon resident for the remainder of the 2008-2009 school year.
Discussion of the search process for a new VES principal. A draft outline was distributed by Ron Stahley.
Administrative Reports: Report from John Reed covering VES wireless access, technology/computer equipment update and upcoming event dates for March and April.
Old Business:
New Business
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. on a motion from Bill Ellis and seconded by Deb Hebert.
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Accepted as Corrected: ___________
VERNON PLANNING COMMISSION – Special MEETING MINUTES
March 26, 2009 1830 hours, Vernon Town Office Building
MEMBERS PRESENT: Rory Underwood (Chair), Mike Zaluzny, Dale Gassett, Shane Shippee, Jeff Dunklee, Steve Skibniowsky (Clerk)
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
OTHERS PRESENT: None
MINUTE(S) APPROVAL
OLD BUSINESS
NEW BUSINESS
ADJORNMENT
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Vernon Selectboard Mtg. 3/30/09
Draft
Accepted as Printed______________
Accepted as Corrected _______________
VERNON SELECTBOARD SPECIAL MEETING
March 30, 2009 6:00 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Mike Ball-Chairman Phyllis Newton
Michael Courtemanche Chris Garofolo
Lynda Starorypinski Rep. Patty O’Donnell
Robert Miller, Jr. Tom Hendricks
Len Howard Carol Hammond
OTHERS PRESENT: Bill Hammond
Tom Hendricks George Sansoucy
Richard Coutant Bill Smith
Ed Miller
WELCOME AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
At 6:05 pm Mike Ball called the meeting to order, welcomed those present and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Patty O’Donnell states her issues with the town and the future of Vermont Yankee and conveys that the town has the best representation for these issues.
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to go into executive session with Rep. Patty O’Donnell, Ed Miller, Bill Smith, Richard Courtant, Phyllis Newton, Bill Hammond and Elaine Howard on a contractual matter with disclosure at this time which might be detrimental to the town and/or individuals involved. Robert miller seconded the motion. the motion carried.
Mike Ball excuses himself from the meeting due to conflict of interest and sickness. Vice Chair Mike Courtemanche continued the meeting.
Vice Chairman Mike Courtemanche stated that the board had entered into executive session at 6:11 and came out at 7:55 and no action was taken.
PUBLIC COMMENT
No public comment at this time.
MINUTE APPROVAL
Len Howard made the motion to approve the minutes of March 16, 2009 as written and corrected. Robert Miller seconded the motion. The motion carried.
New/Unfinished Business
Bid for the Suburban would close April 10th @ 4:00pm. The board will review all bids on April 13th. The bid would be posted on the VLCT web site and the Brattleboro Reformer for Saturday April 4th. Robert Miller would ask Chief Tom Fox to display the ad on there web site.
Len Howard made the motion to allow the bid to end on April 10 @4:00 pm and to be reviewed at the next meeting on april 13th. Lynda Starorypinski seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Mike Courtemanche asked Lynda Starorypinski to contract Chris Howe about the progress on the job descriptions.
No further discussion at this time.
MEDIA
LEN HOWARD made the motion to adjourn. ROBERT MILLER seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
Adjourned @8:07 PM.
NEXT MEETING WILL BE, April 6, 2009 @ 6:30 PM
Respectfully submitted by ________________
Elaine Howard
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Vernon Selectboard Mtg. 3/16/09
Draft
Accepted as Printed______________
Accepted as Corrected _______________
VERNON SELECTBOARD MEETING
March 16, 2009 6:30 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Michael Courtemanche David Andrews
Robert Miller, Jr. Tom Hendricks
Len Howard Mary Miller
MEMBERS ABSENT: Chris Garofolo
Lynda Starorypinski Sandy Harris
Michael Ball Sally Brassor
WELCOME AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
At 6:36 pm Acting Chair Mike Courtemanche called the meeting to order, welcomed those present and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT
David Andrews stated that he did not see the Police Department on the agenda. With recent concerns in regards to performance activity and a number of citizen complaints he wondered if the board was going to address any of these issues. Mike Courtemanche stated that the board was looking into these issues and hopefully some would be discussed during the meeting on March 30th.
With no further public comment the board moved on.
MINUTE APPROVAL
Len Howard made the motion to approve the minutes of March 9, 2009 as written and corrected. Robert Miller seconded the motion. The motion carried.
town clerk
Sandy Harris presented the board with a petition with 93 signatures, 92 of which were registered voters. The petition requested a special town meeting in which the voters would vote to appropriate $5,000 from the Emergency Medical and Ambulance Service Fund to Rescue Inc.; additionally the Thomas Thompson Trust would match the appropriation. The $10,000 would go towards the purchase of a new ambulance. Len Howard asked Sandy if this fund was intended only for subscriptions or if the purchase of new equipment would be covered by the fund. Sally Brassor stated that the fund is only for subscriptions and not for any other expenses. The fund was not designed for the purchasing of equipment. David Andrews reminded the board that at town meeting the town attorney clearly stated that funds could not be appropriated for any items that are not clearly within the description of the purpose of the fund. David used the example of funds from the water/sewer fund to be appropriated for constructing the foundation of a new EOC building. This is not what is in the description of the purpose of the fund and therefore should not be allocated for that purpose.
Sandy stated that she has 15 days to warn the special town meeting starting from March 11th. Mike Courtemanche read from his correspondence with VLCT, which stated, if the selectboard believes this is an inappropriate use of the reserve fund; the selectboard can tell the voters that they do not have the authority to compel the selectboard to call a special meeting to change the purpose of an established reserve fund. Under 24 V.S.A. Sec 2804 (a) an established fund is “under the control and direction of the legislative branch of the municipality, and maybe expended for such purposes for which it was established”. Len Howard stated that he contacted Mark Considine at Rescue Inc. and asked him if each town was being asked to appropriate for a new ambulance and Mark’s response was that they are not asking towns to do this. They are always looking for donations but they are not soliciting funds for this purpose at this time.
Robert Miller made the motion that this is an inappropriate use of the reserve funds therefore we do not have to have a special meeting to consider the proposal. Len Howard seconded the motion. The motion carried.
In other Town Clerk business, Sandy stated that April has been proclaimed as Child Abuse Prevention Month. Prevent Child Abuse Vermont is participating in a nationwide campaign, in which the symbol for this is a pinwheel. Support is shown by planting a pinwheel garden for a donation of $1.00 for each pinwheel with a recommended amount of 100 pinwheels. This pinwheel garden will serve as a reminder to save our most precious resource, our children, and to show folks in the community our support. Sandy wondered if the board would like to participate by having a pinwheel garden at the town office. The board would let Sandy know by the end of the week.
Mike Courtemanche asked Sandy if Mike Ball contacted her in reference to updating the appointment booklet. Sandy stated that Mike Ball affirmed that the board secretary would contact her about that. Sandy confirmed it was done and everyone was on board.
The board thanked Sandy.
Bills & warrants- Treasurer
Robert Miller made the motion to accept warrants 23SG, 9S, 10 S and 11S. len howard seconded the motion. the motion carried.
The board thanked Sally.
equipment-speaker phone
The board reviewed the information that Mike Ball had e-mail everyone. There was some question among board members regarding exactly which phone Mike was referring to. There were several phones with the same model number he referred to with varying costs. Being unclear of exactly what he wanted the board decided to table this to another meeting.
Bid policy
Len howard made the motion to accept the New bid policy as written WITH THE NEW CHANgES. Robert Miller seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Mike Courtemanche will forward the new bid policy on to Sandy Harris and Sally Brassor.
New/Unfinished Business
Mike Courtemanche discussed the meeting with Representative O’Donnell on March 3rd concerning the hiring of an appraisal service and lobbyist to help in dealing with Vermont Yankee issues in the state legislature. It was voted to retain Sansoucy & Associates as an appraisal service but there was never a motion to retain the lobbyist to help with issues in the state legislature. As discussed at the prior meeting, the lobbyist would assist Representative O’Donnell for the next two terms. The agreement would be for $10,000 to come out of The Professional Services Fund, which is specifically designed for this purpose. Mike Courtemanche has a contract that needs to be signed so that the board could move forward with this.
Len Howard made the motion to allow Vice Chairman Mike Courtemanche to sign the agreement in the absence of Chairman Mike Ball with the previously agreed upon terms in order to obtain the lobbyist services of Miller and Smith LLP. Robert Miller seconded the motion. The motion carried.
MEDIA
Chris Garofolo asked for a recap of the discussion about the petition presented to the board. Mike Courtemanche summarized the proceedings which led to the decision of not moving ahead with a special town meeting.
LEN HOWARD made the motion to adjourn. ROBERT MILLER seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
Adjourned @7:00 PM.
NEXT MEETING WILL BE, March 30, 2009 @ 6:00 PM
Respectfully submitted by ________________
Elaine Howard
******************************************************************************
Vernon Selectboard Mtg. 3/9/09
Accepted as Printed______________
Accepted as Corrected _______________
VERNON SELECTBOARD MEETING
March 9, 2009 6:30 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Michael Ball -Chairman David Walker
Michael Courtemanche Bruce Gauld
Robert Miller Fred Sage
Len Howard David Andrews
Lynda Starorypinski Tom Hendricks
OtherS Present: Sally Brassor
Scott Lane Sandy Harris
Chris Howe Howard Fairman
Eleanor Allen Pete Crossmon
Nancy Durborow
Jeff Durborow
WELCOME AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
At 6:30 pm Chairman Mike Ball called the meeting to order and welcomed those present, and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Public Comments
David Andrews asked if since the last meeting anyone on the board was directed by the chairman not to contract the town attorney. It was the consensus of the board that no one had been directed not to contact the town attorney.
Howard Fairman wanted to make public a serious problem with 911 in Vernon he had experienced. On Sunday he had called 911 to contact the Vernon Police. A New Hampshire dispatcher answered and switched him to Vermont 911 where they proceeded to tell him there was no Vernon Police Department. Mike Ball stated that it must have been an issue with that operator. Mr. Fairman was concerned that if he had a true emergency no one would respond. Mike Ball assured Mr. Fairman that this was an isolated incident and that he would check into this further. Robert Miller asked if he received a call or visit from the Vernon Police Department. Mr. Fairman stated that as of yet no one has contacted him. Mr. Fairman conveyed that it was not an extreme emergency. Mike Courtemanche would also like to find out why he has not received a response back. Mike Courtemanche stated that he has been receiving calls from residents about the same issues as he indicated in his e-mails to the board.
Chris Howe stated that she would like to continue with the job descriptions her contact with Harry Snyder if it was the pleasure of the board. Mike Ball stated that the board agreed to let Chris continue with the job descriptions.
Chris Howe also asked if she could keep the key to the building since she is on the cemetery board and may need to get it from time to time. Mike Ball suggested that she contact the Town Clerk in regards to protocol.
MINUTES- March 3
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to accept the minutes of March 3, with the correction of the motion to appoint Mike Ball as chair seconded by Mike Courtemanche INSTEAD OF Robert Miller. Len Howard seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Town Clerk-Sandy Harris
Sandy Harris asked the board if it was decided on how to handle the Overweight permits. It was the consensus of the board that the system currently is working out and there is no need to change it. Len Howard made the motion that Sandy Harris, Town Clerk continue to process the overweight permits. Lynda Starorypinski seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Recreation Department Plowing
Mike Ball read a recommendation of PACIF/VLCT that stated, it is best practice, property risk management that the towns plow the driveway to the Recreation Center. In the event of a fire, the loss would be settled per the valuation option shown on our town’s Property Listing even if fire suppression is delayed. However, this is not a requirement. Mike Courtemanche conveyed his concern of security problems. Dave Andrews stated that the damage done to the Recreation Center was done when the driveway was not being plowed. Len Howard’s concern is the condition of the pavement being uncovered with the risk of frost and causing damage. After hearing from the Assistant Fire Chief, it was the consensus of the board to plow the Recreation Department part way at the highway department’s discretion. Mike Ball will send a directive to the Department head.
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to take Appointments out of order on the agenda. Len Howard seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Appointments
The board reviewed in depth and discussed changes which included, but were not limited to the following:
It was suggested that the board advertise the vacancies in the Town Newspaper.
Vacancies are as follows:
Mike Courtemanche made a motion to approve the list of appointments as well as the liaisons from the roster and advertise the vacancies. Robert Miller seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to return to the order of the agenda with the Treasurer and Bills and Warrants. Robert Miller seconded the motion. The motion carried.
treasurer
Bills & warrants-
Mike Courtemanche made THE MOTION that Sally Brassor, Treasurer, is to take care of the bills and warrants for the selectboard. Robert Miller seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Robert Miller made the motion to approve the following warrants 22Sg, 9S and 10s. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
Sally asked if in the future she would like to be on the agenda to talk about the Wellness for the employees. The no smoking and harassment policies were not accepted by and needs to be worked on.
Sally also stated that VLCT insurance has opted out of the Workman’s Comp. Insurance, Fire Department only, since they were having a difficult time administering it; they have gone out in the assigned risk market and retained another company. They will still do all the administrative duties and it won’t change for us except we would have another policy for the Volunteer Fire Department. This just means that we have a separate insurance policy.
The board thanked Sally.
Mike Courtemanche made the MOTION TO go into executive session with Sally Brassor and Mike Coughlin on a personnel/labor relations MATTER, WHICH disclosure at this time might be detrimental to the town and/or individuals involved. Robert Miller seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Chairman Mike Ball stated that the board had entered into executive session at 7:30 PM and came out at 7:49 PM and no action was taken.
Town Attorney
Mike Ball stated that he talked with the town’s attorney Richard Courtant to set-up a meeting on March 30 at 6:00, which would be a working session to be addressing current and/or pressing legal issues that we are facing. The Recreation Department also requested to be on the agenda March 30th.
mike courtemanche made the motion to take New/old-unfinished business out of order on the agenda. Robert miller seconded the motion. the motion carried.
Old Business-
Town Van bid was awarded. The board is working on the revised bid policy to be included on the agenda March 16th. The Suburban needs to be re advertised with a minimum bid of $950. It was the consensus of the board to have the board secretary contact VLCT to place the ad on their web site.
Mike Ball spoke about the responsibility that the selectboard has in reference to Emergency Response Service in Vernon and the selectboard’s role. Mike Ball will provide the appendix of RERP and pass it along to the board members.
Mike Ball suggests that the board consider a better speaker phone with better capacities. Mike Ball with research this and the board may vote on it at the March 16th meeting. Mike Ball stated that in 2003 Sandy Harris had asked the board to start updating the policies. Past boards started with them but this board needs to continue with the revision of the policies. Mike Ball suggests that in April start taking a look at one or two of them on a regular basis. Mike Ball will scan and put on the web, this includes personnel polices, purchasing policies etc. etc.
Robert Miller stated that the board should invest in software to create the board’s web site. Mike Courtemanche conveyed that the software would have to be purchased. Sally will check the budget to see if this is possible.
Nancy Durborow asked the board if the Verizon towers are on line. Mike Courtemanche will follow up with Verizon.
Lynda Starorypinski requested to go to the Selectboard training that VLCT is offering. Lynda will check with Sandy Harris about the training.
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to go back to the Road Department on the agenda. Robert Miller seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Road Department-David Walker
Mike Courtemanche made the motion that the board enter into executive session with Sally Brassor, david walker and Pete Crossmon on a personnel matter wHICH disclosure at this time might be detrimental to the town and/or individuals involved. Robert Miller seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Chairman Mike Ball stated that the board had entered into executive session at 8:22 PM and came out at 8:28 PM and no action was taken.
Mike Courtemanche Made the motion TO ADJOURN. Robert Miller seconded the motion. The MOTION CARRIEd.
Adjourned @ 8:30 PM.
NEXT MEETING WILL BE, March 16, 2009, @ 6:30 PM
Respectfully submitted by ________________
Elaine Howard
*******************************************************************************************
Draft
Accepted as Printed ____________
Accepted as Corrected _____________
VERNON SELECTBOARD SPECIAL
MEETING
Members Present: Others Present:
Michael Ball Rep. Patty O’Donnell
Robert Miller Jr.
Michael Courtemanche
Lenny Howard
Lynda Starorypinski
Re-organization of the Selectboard.
Lenny Howard made the motion to appoint Mike Ball as Chairman to the board. Robert Miller seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Lynda Starorypinski made the motion to appoint Mike Courtemanche as Vice Chairman to the board. Lenny Howard seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to appoint Lenny Howard and Lynda as Clerks of the board. Robert Miller seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to use Roberts Rules of Order as a procedural tool for the selectboard meetings. Lenny Howard seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to set the regular meetings of the Selectboard for the 1st and the 3rd Monday of each month at 6:30 PM. Lenny Howard seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to appoint Elaine Howard as Secretary to the Selectboard. Robert Miller seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Mike Courtemanche made the motion that with the exception of preparing the selectboard orders and signing the bills which will be done by the clerk, all other definitions of the clerk of the board will be taken care of by the secretary of the board. Lenny Howard seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to use the Brattleboro Reformer and the BCTV as the Board’s media source. Lenny Howard seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Mike Courtemanche made the motion TO TAKE Patty O’Donell out of order. Robert Miller seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Patty O’Donnell conveyed her concerns regarding the Town of Vernon and Vt. Yankee in the event that relicensing doesn’t happen. It was discussed that the value of the property would be drastically reduced if it closes. Discussion also ensued regarding the spent fuel rods that would be stored on site for an indefinite period of time. The Town of Vernon would need to hire an appraisal and consulting service to assist in these discussions as well as a liaison as a go between for being kept updated with the relicensing processes happening in the state government.
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to ALLOW REPRESENTATIVE pATTY o’DONNELL TO retain Skip SANSOUCY & Assocates with a cap of $10,000.00 for aPPRAISAL & cONSULTING services PERTAINING TO THIS PROCESS. Lenny Howard seconded the motion. The Motion carried.
The board moved on to the appointments.
Lynda STARORYPINSKI MADE the motion to reappoint aNNETTE rOYDON, rorY UNDERWOOD AND fRANK jOHNSON sr for the Fence Viewing POSITIONS. Lenny Howard seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Mike Courtemance made the motion to REAPPOINT ANNETTE Roydon as Inspector of wood, shingles and lumber. Lenny Howard seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Robert Miller made the motion to reappoint David Walker, MIKE Courtemanche and annette roydon as Tree wardens. Lynda Starorypinski seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Mike Courtemance made the motion to reappoint Annette Roydon weigher of coal. Robert Miller seconded the motion. the motion carried.
Adjournment
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to adjourn. Robert Miller seconded the motion. The motion carried.
The meeting adjourned at 10:15 PM.
Next meeting is March 9, 2009 at 6:30 PM.
Respectfully submitted by___________________
Elaine Howard
********************************************************************************************************
Vernon Selectboard Mtg. 3/2/2009
Draft
Accepted as Printed______________
Accepted as Corrected _______________
VERNON SELECTBOARD MEETING
FEBRUARY 23, 2009 6:30 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHER MEMBERS:
Michael Ball David Walker
Michael Courtemanche Bruce Gauld
Christiane Howe Fred Sage
MEMBERS ABSENT: Tom Hendricks
Robert Miller-Chairman Sally Brassor
Annette Roydon Kevin Turnley
Cindy Turnley
Leon & Sue Cobb
Chris Garofolo
WELCOME AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
At 6:36 pm Acting Chair Chris Howe called the meeting to order and welcomed those present, and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
treasurer
Bills & warrants-Cindy Turnley
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to approve the following warrants 21Sg, 7S and 8s. Mike Ball seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
The board thanked Cindy.
BIDS
With much discussion about the bids, Mike Ball expressed his concerns about not awarding the vehicle to the highest bidder. Mike Ball stated that the board already made the motion to award the town bus to the highest bidder and that is what should be done. Sally needs to know when it is awarded so that she can take off the insurance on the vehicle. The board moved on.
JOB DESCRIPTIONS
The Selectboard reviewed in depth and discussed changes which included, but were not limited to, the following:
With discussion surrounding the elected positions and non elected positions a foot note would be added as follows:
Note this position is a combination of an elected position as well as a selectboard appointee. The asterisks items are the duties of the elected official and not under the control of the selectboard. If the elected treasure was unable to perform all of the duties that were currently being performed by the present treasure, the selectboard would appoint another person to fulfill those duties and the job description would need to be revised into two job descriptions.
Kevin Turnley was asked by Mike Courtemanche the need for several job descriptions within the department including sergeant, corporal, senior patrol officer, full time officer and part time officer. Kevin stated that each position has different qualifications; full time and part-time officers can perform the same tasks but have restricted training and certifications. With much discussion the job descriptions for the senior officer along with sergeant and corporal would be worked on at a later date due to the restructuring of the Police Department.
Chris Howe offered to continue to review the police job descriptions with Kevin after town meeting. It was stated that either way someone would continue to work on these.
The same note regarding elected position would also be added to the Town Clerk and Assistant Town Clerk.
Changes to the Auditors job description included the name change of Vernon Public Library to Vernon Free Library. Full or part time employee needs to be determined.
Add to Secretary to the Selectboard other duties as required.
Pre-employment criminal, adult and child abuse background checks must be required on all job description having to deal directly or indirectly with children.
Add of maintaining Materials Safety Data Sheets. Assistant Director needs to be sent back to Seth the reword and clarify the actual duties to this position.
Ability to ensure that VOSHA regulations are maintained and followed during program offering, omitted from these job descriptions and added to the Recreation Director and Assistant Director.
Add to job description actively support recycling. This should be added to all department heads to be responsible for recycling and actively supports the recycling goals of the town for their department.
General corrections to be made to job descriptions and retyped for review.
CAPITAL PLAN
Mike Ball made the motion to radify the Capital plan as it is WRITTEN AT this time. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Mike Ball discussed the bid policy and the relation to the Capital Plan, after much discussion it was found that the 2008 Town Report Vernon Capital Plan to be different than the 2007 Town Report. The Capital Plan Summary is not included in the 2008 Town Report.
Mike Ball made the motion to RECIND THE previous vote. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Mike Ball Made the motion to radify the description in the 2008 Town Report with the exception of the Capital Plan summary paragraph. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Mike ball made the motion to adjourn. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
Mike Ball stated that it had been a good year and that a lot had got done. Thank you.
Adjourned @ 9:24 PM.
NEXT MEETING WILL BE, March 3, 2009 After polls close.
Respectfully submitted by ________________
Elaine Howard
**********************************************************************************************************
Vernon Selectboard Mtg. 2/20/2009
Draft
Accepted as Printed______________
Accepted as Corrected _______________
VERNON SELECTBOARD MEETING
FEBRUARY 16, 2009 6:30 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHER MEMBERS:
Robert Miller, Jr.Chairman Sally Brassor Bruce Gauld
Christiane Howe Fred Sage Mike Slyk
Michael Ball Stan Sage
Annette Roydon Chris Kempf
Michael Courtemanche Marylynn Scherlin
Mike Coughlin
WELCOME AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
At 6:30 pm Chairman Robert Miller called the meeting to order and welcomed those present, and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT
No public comment was forthcoming.
MINUTE APPROVAL
Chris Howe stated that Steve Hardy was willing to walk the winners thru their woodlots. Sally would put the lot number on the winners receipt and then Steve Hardy would see who has what lot.
The board received a contract for retainer from Salmon & Nostrand. With some discussion the board agreed to sign the contract.
Chris Howe made the motion to authorize Chairman Robert Miller to sign the letter of contract from Salmon & Nostrand to retain there services. Annette Roydon seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Mike Ball made the motion to accept the minutes of February 2, 2009 as corrected. Chris Howe seconded the motion. The motion carried.
treasurer
Bills & warrants
Chris Howe made the motion to approve the following warrants 20Sg, 6S. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
The board thanked Sally.
Chris Howe made the motion to take out of order Bids. Mike Ball seconded the motion. The motion carried.
BIDS
Town Bus bid closed on Friday and the town office was closed due to the Holiday. Not knowing what bids came in for the Town Bus the board secretary called Sandy Harris to inquire about any bids. Sandy stated that only one bid had come in.
Mike Ball made the motion to allow Chairman Robert Miller with Sandy Harris as witness to open the bids and award the highest bidder the Town Bus. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Suburban bids were received but there was no mention of a minimum bid in the advertisement. Discussion ensued about the vehicle’s Kelley Blue Book value being significantly higher than any of the bids received. Chairman Robert Miller suggested, after speaking with the town attorney earlier, that the board put the vehicle out for bid again with a minimum bid. The consensus of the board is to set a minimum bid and re advertise the vehicle. With the vehicle worth a lot more than what bids were coming it for.
Chris Howe made a motion to reject all bids at this time for the Suburban and re advertise the vehicle with a minimum bid of $950.00. Annette Roydon seconded the motion. The motion carried 4 Ayes/1 nay.
Annette Roydon made the motion to return to the order on the agenda with Mike Coughlin and Sally Brassor. Chris Howe seconded the motion. the motion carried.
Mike Coughlin & Sally Brassor
Mike Ball made the motion to go into executive session with Mike Coughlin and Sally Brassor on personnel/labor relations MATTER WHICH DISCLOURSE AT THIS TIME MIGHT BE DETRIMENTAL TO THE TOWN AND/OR INDIVIDUALS INVOLVED. Mike courtemanche seconded the motion. the motion carried.
cHAIRMAN rOBERT MILLER STATED THAT THE BOARD HAD ENTERED INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 7:14 PM AND CAME OUT AT 7:27 PM AND NO ACTION WAS TAKEN.
Narrow Band Radios
Chairman Robert Miller requested a motion for David Andrews to start the process of planning the switch with the wide band radios to narrow band radios.
Mike Ball made the motion to empower David Andrews to get the information on the narrow band radios along with a proposal with options to be presented to the board. Chris Howe seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Fire Department
Applications
Chairman Robert Miller spoke with the Chief Fox and Assistant Chief David Andrews in regards to the Fire Department Applications with much confusion on the process and time table for completion of the application. It was the consensus of the board that a motion was made to reflect that a deadline of December 31 for getting completed applications back into the Fire Chief. It was also the consensus of the board that anyone who had missed the deadline would still be able to turn in a completed application at this time.
FINANCE aDVISORY committee
Marylynn Scherlin
Marylynn stated that she had talked with David Walker in regards to the replacement of the Dump Truck. David provided the specifications for the new truck and he is requesting a tandem axle truck which is not exactly what he currently has now. Currently all the trucks are single axle. At town meeting an amendment will have to be made to make any changes. Then it would be put to the voters. The Capitol Plan would have some changes regarding the Police Department’s Cruiser and the Highway Department’s Dump Truck.
New/old or unfinished business
Trash
Mike Courtemanche gave an update on the Windham Solid Waste Management District meeting that he attended and the surcharge that they want to impose. This is being challenged and in order to legally impose a surcharge they would have to first pass an ordinance which would allow them to do so. Mike Courtemanche would like to know the board’s pleasure on how he as a representative for the town of Vernon should vote for this ordinance at the next meeting on Thursday the 19th.
Mike Ball made the motion to allow Mike Courtemanche as the Town of Vernon representative to vote no on the surcharge being imposed by the WSWMD. Annette Roydon seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Preschool Raffle
They would like to sell there raffle tickets as had been done each year during voting.
Mike Ball made the motion to allow the preschool to sell there tickets for there annual raffle. Annette Roydon seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Articles
It was decided by the board that the articles starting with number 6 will be read by each board member at town meeting.
Recreation Department
Chris Howe asked why the recreation center was not being plowed. It was thought that it was for safety and security issues but this should be asked of David Walker.
Media
No media present.
Mike Courtemanche made the motion to adjourn. Annette Roydon seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
Adjourned @ 8:05 PM.
NEXT MEETING WILL BE, FEBRAURY 23, 2009 AT 6:30 PM.
Respectfully submitted by ________________
Elaine Howard
**********************************************************************************************************
Draft
Accepted as Printed ________________
Accepted as Corrected _____________
VERNON SELECTBOARD
MEETING
February 2, 2009 6:30 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Robert Miller Jr. Chairman Fred Sage
Michael Ball Sally Brassor
Christiane Howe Victoria Hall
Annette Roydon Paul Corneel
Michael Courtemanche Marylynn Scherlin
David Walker
OTHERS PRESENT: Jane Lazorchak
Chris Kempf John Wheelden, Jr.
Tom Fox 8:40 Nancy Howe
WELCOME AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
At 6:35 pm Chairman Robert Miller Jr. called the meeting to order and welcomed those present, and led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Public comment
No public comment was forthcoming.
Annette Roydon made the motion to take the Woodlot drawing out of order on the agenda. Chris Howe seconded the motion. The motion carried.
WoodLots
Woodlot Drawing
Jamaze Jobin drew the following names:
The following residents were selected to enter the Town Forest to obtain firewood. Congratulations to all the winners.
minute approval
Chris Howe requested to include January 9th minutes.
Mike Ball made the motion to accept the January 9th minutes as written. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. The motion carried.
January 19th
The following changes were made:
Page 3, spelling errors list not last, Coutant and Ethier corrected.
Mike Ball made the motion to accept the minutes of January 19th as corrected. Chris Howe seconded the motion. The motion carried.
January 22
The following changes were made:
Under New and Old, It was requested by Chris Howe to place Dale Gassett on the Planning Board Committee.
Misspelled rescind.
Mike Ball made the motion to accept the January 22 minutes as corrected. Chris Howe seconded the motion. The motion carried.
TREASURER
BILLS AND WARRANTS
Chris Howe made the motion to accept warrants 19SG, 3S, 4S and 5S. Mike Ball seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Annette Roydon made the motion to take Job Descriptions before Fish & Wildlife out of order on the agenda. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. The motion carried.
job description
Selectboard Secretary
The board reviewed the job description and corrected or omitted items that did not pertain to the position.
Van Driver
Changes to the job description were made and were corrected or items were omitted that did not pertain to the position.
Annette Roydon made the motion to suspend discussion on the Job Descriptions and return to Fish & Wildlife on the agenda. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Fish & Wildlife
Jane Lazorchak Department of Fish & Wildlife biologist requested from the selectboard their support in purchasing a parcel of wetlands off Newton Road. This parcel is currently the home of the spotted turtle, which is on the state-endangered species list. By purchasing this parcel of wetlands it would be added to the Roaring Brook Wildlife Management Area.
It was the consensus of the board to support the Department of Fish & Wildlife with the purchase of the parcel off of Newton Road.
Mike Ball made the motion for Chairman Robert Miller to sign the LETTER and is IN AGREEMENT with the sale of the property to the State. Annette Roydon seconded the motion. The MOTION CARRIED.
Chris Howe made the motion to take a 10-MINUTE recess. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Chairman Robert Miller called the meeting back to order stating that at 7:32 the board recessed and returned at 7:48 pm.
Job Descriptions
Highway Department-Road Commissioner
The board continued with the correction of the job description for the Road Commissioner editing and making changes to items pertaining to the position.
Equipment Operator/ Mechanic
Changes to the job description were made and were corrected or items were omitted that did not pertain to the position.
Equipment Operator
The board reviewed the job description and concluded that this would be the same as Equipment Operator/Mechanic omitting the mechanics pertaining to the position.
After much discussion regarding the amount of corrections to be made on the Job Descriptions and time constrain it was the consensus of the board to table Job Descriptions with Department Heads to February 23, 2009 at 6:30 PM. Chris Howe will notify Department Heads and make copies of remaining Job Descriptions.
bids
Town Bus
There are currently no bids on the town bus therefore it would be advertised again. It was discussed that if no bids were received on the Town Bus that possibility it could be put out to auction.
Suburban
The board received one bid and had received another bid prior to this meeting, which would need to be reviewed to be able to award the vehicle to the highest bidder.
Mike Ball made the motion to accept the bid for the 1993 Suburban in the amount of $558.25 from Steve Mears and to direct the Fire Department to remove equipment for pick-up to be made. Annette Roydon seconded the motion. The motion died.
After much discussion it was proposed that the vehicle would be awarded to the highest bidder after the Fire Department had removed all emergency equipment.
Mike Ball made the motion to direct the Fire Department to get the vehicle ready for the board to ESTABLISH PICK UP on FEBRUARY 16, 2009 to award the vehicle to the highest bidder. Annette Roydon seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Attorney
Update
Chris Howe and Annette Roydon met with Richard Coutant to discussed fees. Chris Howe conveyed that the board’s options are to be charged a flat rate, which is a retainer of $600.00 per month. This would be for the first five hours and after that it would be $150.00 per hour. This rate does not include litigation, which would be billed at a flat hourly rate of $150.00. It was asked if the board decided to go with the retainer could they change to the hourly rate if this was not cost effective. Chairman Robert Miller would contact Richard Coutant to ask if this was acceptable to them. The board’s budgeted amount for FY 09/10 would cover the $600.00 monthly rate.
Mike Ball made a motion to accept the offer for $600.00 a month for a retainer of five initial hours from Salmon & Norstrand. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Mike BaLL MADE THE MOTION THAT THE BOARD ENTER INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION ON CONTRACTUAL MATTER WITH DISCLOsure AT THIS TIME WHICH MIGHT BE DETRIMENTAL TO THE TOWN AND/OR INDIVIDUALS INVOLVED. cHRIS hOWE SECONDED THE MOTION. tHE MOTION CARRIED.
cHAIRMAN rOBERT MILLER STATED THAT THE BOARD HAD ENTERED INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 8:45 PM AND CAME OUT AT 9:17 PM AND NO ACTION WAS TAKEN.
Fire department
Tom Fox
Mike BaLL MADE THE MOTION THAT THE BOARD ENTER INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION ON a contractual / personnel MATTER WITH DISCLOsure AT THIS TIME WHICH MIGHT BE DETRIMENTAL TO THE TOWN AND/OR INDIVIDUALS INVOLVED. Annette Roydon seconded the motion. The motion carried.
cHAIRMAN rOBERT MILLER STATED THAT THE BOARD HAD ENTERED INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 9:22 PM AND CAME OUT AT 9:45 PM AND no action was taken.
New/Old or Unfinished Business
Chris Howe reminded the board that the budget forum is on February 9, 2009. The board would present the budget exactly the same as the previous budget forum.
Chris Howe asked about the flag holders and they would check on these with Sandy.
Chairman Robert Miller wished to thank the Listers for a job well done with the town wide reappraisal. Thank you.
media
No comment fourth coming.
Chris Howe Made the motion TO ADJOURN. Mike Ball seconded the motion. The MOTION CARRIED.
The meeting adjourned at 9:50 PM.
The next regular scheduled meeting is February 16, 2009 at 6:30 PM.
SelectBoard Budget Forum February 9, 2009 at 6:30 PM.
Special Selectboard Meeting February 23, 2009 For Job Descriptions at 6:30 PM.
Respectfully Submitted by________________
Elaine Howard
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Vernon Town School Board
Minutes of Regular Meeting, January 26, 2009
Vernon School board meeting agenda and minutes available at: http://www.wssu.k12.vt.us/boards/vernon.html
Directors present: Mike Hebert, Deb Hebert, Bill Ellis, Marylynn Scherlin, Walter Breau (arrived at 7:42 pm).
Directors absent: None
Also present: Principal John Reed, Sally Brassor (departed 7:10 pm) and Jim Kane (departed at 7:10 PM)
The meeting was called to order at 5:30 p.m. by Chair Mike Hebert
Administrative Reports:
Principal John Reed reported
Unfinished Business
On a motion from Bill Ellis and seconded by Deb Hebert the Board unanimously adopted the Jan 18, 2009 Budget Draft.
New Business
The meeting adjourned at 7:50 p.m. on a motion from Bill Ellis and seconded by Deb Hebert.
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Accepted as Printed ________________
Accepted as Corrected _____________
VERNON SELECTBOARD
SPECIAL MEETING
January 22, 2009 5:15 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHER MEMBERS:
Michael Ball Susan Miller
Christiane Howe Sandy Harris
Annette Roydon Marylynn Scherlin
Michael Courtemanche Reed Cutting
Tim Franklin
MEMBERS ABSENT: Cheryl Franklin
Robert Miller Jr. Chairman Norm Malloy
Mary Malloy
Lynda Starorypinski
WELCOME AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
At 5:15 pm Acting Chair Chris Howe called the meeting to order and welcomed those present, and led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Articles
Cheryl Franklin stated that they were proposing, that instead of a new surcharge from Windham Solid Waste Management District to keep the cost in as an assessment. Mike Courtemanche stated that he has talked with Norm Mallory and that if he wrote the ticket we could just write two checks, one to Triple T for the tipping fees and one directly to Windham Solid Waste for the assessment fees. Mike Courtemanche stated that he had talked with George Murry from Windham Solid Waste Management and the Town of Vernon could do this and he was in agreement with that. Mike Courtemanche stated that the new surcharge would come out of the fund and will not affect the tax base. Mike Courtemanche stated that Sally had told him that anything that goes to Windham Solid Waste Management came from this fund and anything that goes to Triple T would be raised from the budget. Mike Courtemanche stated that we would not need an article for the surcharge since in will be out of the fund.
Cheryl Franklin stated that they would still like it as haulers for it to be a tax assessment instead of a surcharge, for reasons that they are not debt collectors. Norm Mallory conveyed that he was able to keep the Town of Vernon prices stable, but the new surcharge may not make that possible. Cheryl Franklin asked that an article be put in to keep it all under assessment.
Annette Roydon made the motion to put an article in our warning to say, Shall the town vote to direct the Windham solid waste management district to collect all fees for service by the District by assessment Only. Mike Ball seconded the motion. The motion carried.
The board thanked Cheryl Franklin.
Cusick Scholarship Fund-Sandy Harris
This fund to be distributed in accordance with the Vernon Scholarship Requirement.
Sandy stated that the proposed Human Resources support for the 2009 Warning requirements a large amount of coping and paper work. She and Susan’s solution to that would be to have a notebook with all the information for each support. Mike Ball volunteered to place the documents into a PDF file to put on the web site so that town residents may look it over prior to Town Meeting. The Town Clerks office will also have a copy available for anyone to look at.
The board thanked Sandy and Susan.
New/Old or Unfinished Business
It is requested by the board to place Dale Gassett on the Planning Board Committee to fill that vacancy for the remainder of the term.
Mike Ball made the motion that Dale Gassett be put on the Planning Board Committee. Annette Roydon seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Budget Changes
In the January 19 meeting a motion was made to add a separate line item for the South School Repairs & Maintenance along with Miscellaneous and Grounds for the Historians Building with Article 11 of $500 for the Vernon Historians. It was stated that the Historians have funds left over from the year before and don’t need this article.
Mike Ball made the motion to recede the article for $500 and the budget will remain the same as last year. Annette Roydon seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Mike Ball stated that the Highway Department Diesel Dump Truck replacement for 2009/2010 be set from $155,000.00 to $175,000.00 in the Capital Plan. After the inspection is done on the vehicle it will then be decided if the need year can be pushed out. With much discussion about the replacement costs, Mike Ball suggested that the Finance Committee and David Walker discuss this and then come back with a recommendation. The only change to the capital plan thus far is the $39,000 put back in for the police department vehicle.
The board thanked Marylynn and Lynda.
Mike Ball will send to the department heads a memo about the update of the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSD) and Applicable Safety Equipment.
Mike Courtemanche Made the motion TO ADJOURN. Annette Roydon seconded the motion. The MOTION CARRIED.
The meeting adjourned at 6:26 P.M.
The next scheduled meeting is February 2, 2009.
Respectfully Submitted by________________
Elaine Howard
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Accepted as Printed______________
Accepted as Corrected _____________
VERNON SELECTBOARD MEETING
January 19, 2009 6:00 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHER MEMBERS:
Robert Miller, Jr. Eleanor Allen Nancy Durborow
Christiane Howe Fred Sage Sally Brassor
Michael Ball David Andrews Stan Sage
Annette Roydon 6:30 Eleanor Allen Sandy Harris
Michael Courtemanche Marylynn Scherlin Shane Shippee
Georgia Boyce Kevin Turnley
Bruce Gauld Cindy Turnley
Tom Fox Walter Zaluzney
F.C. Wetherby Lawrence Slason
Richard Coutant
WELCOME AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
At 6:07 pm Chairman Robert Miller called the meeting to order and welcomed those present, and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT
No public comment was forthcoming.
TOWN CLERK
Articles
Town Clerk Sandy Harris presented the proposed Articles to the Board for their approval and requested permission to present them to the Town’s attorney. Articles discussed included, but were not limited to the following (noting that the numbers will change once the Articles are received from the School):
DOC SEND
Sandy stated that she would like to purchase scanning equipment utilizing some of the restoration funds which are raised from recording fees and not taxpayer dollars. The equipment will not only help the Town Clerk (since the State no longer is microfilming land records) but the Treasurer and possible the Police Department as well. The consensus of the Board was to have Chris Howe and Mike Ball attend the presentation on the DocSend schedule for January 22nd.
CHRIS HOWE mADE THE MOTION to authorize the Town Clerk to purchase a Doc Send SYSTEM FROM ICON WITH THE FUNDS COMING FROM THE TOWN CLERK’S RESOTRATION FUND. Mike Ball seconded: motion CARRIED. The Board thanked Sandy.
CHRIS HOWE made the motion to authorize the Town Clerk to contact our new town attorney’s about the articles Mike Ball seconded; motion carried.
MINUTE APPROVAL
CHRIS HOWE made the motion to except the minutes of december 29 as presented. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED. 4 AYES/ one abstention.
January 5
The following corrections were made:
Page 1, Mike Ball asked that the minutes of December 29, 2009 be tabled until the next meeting since there was not a quorum of members at the meeting.
Page 2, to be added Mike Ball recommended the board members watch the video from the April meeting where the post-Town meeting budget cuts were made since the stipend was discussed at that meeting.
Page 2, to define the questions that would be asked on 1/15 of the candidates.
Page 4, it was the consensus of the board that the DVDs from the past meetings would be stored in the selectboard room as well as the town library for availability.
MIKE BALL made the motion to accept the January 5 minutes as corrected. Chris Howe seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
treasurer
Bills & warrants
CHRIS HOWE made the motion to approve the following warrants 2S, 18S/G Mike Ball seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
The board thanked Sally.
MIKE BALL made the motion to take the seniors out of order on the agenda Annette Roydon seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
SENIORS
Nancy Durborow presented the board with their changes and the 80-signature petition to have two articles put in the town report. Mike Ball expressed his concerns about changing the rules of the Capital Plan excess fund. Nancy Durborow stated that with or without the board’s permission they would move forward with their articles.
CHRIS HOWE made the motion to accept the two articles presented by the seniors to be added to the article last. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE motion was not carried.
2 aYES / 3 NAYS
The board thanked Nancy and Eleanor.
Attorney
The board welcomed the new town attorney, Richard Coutant and Larry Slason who stated they were pleased to be at the board meeting and to meet everyone.
Items discussed included:
The board thanked Richard Cutant and Larry Slason.
MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION TO TAKE A TEN-MINUTE RECESS. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
Chairman Robert Miller called the meeting to back to order stating that at 7:30pm the board recessed and returned at 7:40pm.
ELDERLY ASSISTANCE-Marylynn Scherlin
Shane Shippee stated his concerns about not having access to sand on weekends and holidays for sanding the elderly driveways and walkways. Chairman Robert Miller will check into this and get back to Shane Shippee. The board thanked Marylynn and Shane.
Police Department-Chief Turnley
Chief Kevin Turnley stated the interviews were done and he was waiting for successful completion of the final background check on the candidate that they had chosen.
CHRIS HOWE mADE THE MOTION to hire the person recommended by our police chief pending A successful background CHECK. Annette Roydon seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
Police department-Chief Turnley
vehicles
Chairman Robert Miller suggested that they talk about the police department’s vehicles. Mike Ball stated that they had discussed continuing with the 2002 Dakota pickup because of its current condition after proper maintenance. It was approved to begin the bid process to replace the Dakota pickup for April/May of 09, which was moved forward from the April/May 08. Mike Ball stated that the equipment (AED’s) that the officer is to have when on call or on duty should be the responsibility of that officer. Fitting all the cruisers with this equipment is an item for later.
Chief Kevin Turnley stated that he would like to go with MHQ to get a package deal, and it is the same vendor that they purchased the last two vehicles from. Their package deal is a turnkey operation. This means that you order the vehicle, it’s striped and lettered and equipment that’s interchangeable from the other vehicle they would take care of. Mike Ball stated that he would basically be presenting a bid specification to the board in accordance with the bid policy. Chief Kevin Turnley stated yes that was correct. Chris Howe asked Chief Turnley if he was looking for comparable vehicles so that interchangeable items would fit the new vehicle. Chief Turnley stated that he would look for what was available and then to see what could be transferred over from the previous
vehicle. The cage from the Dakota will not fit any other vehicle and is not interchangeable. Annette Roydon asked the chief who decided that he was going with an SUV. The Chief replied that he did. It was the consensus of the board that this would be the board who would decide if it was going to be Truck, SUV or a Car. Mike Ball stated that the board was authorizing him to move forward with the bid process but under no circumstance was any one particular vehicle to be singled out. Mike Ball stated that for all Capital Plan items, the requesting department will prepare a detailed bid specification for presentation to the selectboard. When all the bids are received for the item to be purchase, the selectboard will make the choice that best fits the town’s needs. Once the bids are looked at and one bid accepted by the board, the department head might purchase the vehicle that was agreed upon by the Board and the department head.
MIKE BALL mADE THE MOTION to authorize the expenditure of the $39,000.00 that is currently in the capital plan for the purchase of a 4 Wheel Drive vehicle in May or June 09 once bids have been sent and received then accepted by the selectboard. Chris Howe seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED. 3 AYES/2 NAYS
Chairman Miller asked Chief Turnley where the police vehicles were being serviced. Chief Turnley replied that mostly at Mike Either’s. Chris Howe stated that the Dakota was to go to Robert Miller to have it serviced by Bob and why hasn’t this been done. The Chief stated that it wasn’t time for service yet. It was the consensus of the board that the Dakota is brought to Robert Millers for service. The board thanked Chief Turnley.
bid policy
Mike Ball presented the bid policy with changes. CHRIS HOWE mADE THE MOTION to accept the bid policy after it is rewritten to include the word “if.” Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
Walter Zalunzy addressed the board in reference to the town’s Van that is up for bid. Chairman Miller stated that it was advertised in the paper and bids closed January 19. Mr. Zalunzy would like to have this extended at least two weeks. It was the consensus of the board that if there were no bids placed for the vehicle it would be re-advertised. Chris Howe would e-mail the specs on the vehicle to all board members.
CONTRACTS
TOWN MEETING ITEMS
Mike Ball stated that we currently have no contract with Windham Humane Society for housing stray animals. Mike Ball presented the board with a contract which starts in January 2009.
ANNETTE ROYDON MADE THE MOTION to accept the contract of the Windham County Humane Society. Chris Howe seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
It was also the consensus of the board that Mike Ball would sign the contract.
Mike Ball stated that he talked with David Walker who received bids for the replacement of the 1995 Dump Truck Diesel for a 2009 Dump Truck, which totals $174,824.00 up from $155,000.00.
MIKE BALL made the motion that, based on these figures, the finance advisory committee needs to MEET WITH THE ROAD COMMISSIONER AND discuss the corrections as necessary to the capital plan prior to THE PLAN going to the printers. Chris Howe seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
Fire Department
Stipend
Mike Ball stated that this was a budget line item that was voted on and approved by the voters. It was the consensus of the board to let the Fire Chief do what he wishes with the stipend.
New/old or unfinished business
The board thanked the Fire Department.
MIKE BALL made the motion to finalize the budget by e-mail or telephone Chris Howe seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
Chris Howe stated that she received a letter from Jim Mockler about an article that Ed & Barbara Sprague place flags on all veterans graves at the cemetery’s with the help of troop 412 BSA. Mr. Mockler asked if holders for flags were available for other veterans of service no matter what the years of service. It was suggested that the VFW would know of any other markers. Chairman Miller stated that he would check this out and get back to Jim Mockler.
Chris Howe stated that she talked with Mike Hebert in regards to having another budget forum with the school on February 9th, 2009. Mike Hebert told Chris that was when the schoolboard would be presenting their budget as well and would welcome the selectboard on the same night.
MIKE BALL Made the motion that the board ENTER INTO executive SESSION WITH the Fire Chief on a personnel matter with disclosure at this time which might be detrimental to the town and/or individuals involved Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
chairman Miller stated that the board had entered into executive session at 9:55 PM and came out at 10:34 PM and no action was taken.
Chief Tom Fox stated that he would like to see an ice skating rink at the Recreation Department. Mike Ball suggested that he talk with the Recreation Director, Seth Deyo. Chairman Miller stated that he would talk with Seth and get back to Chief Fox.
Mike Ball stated that the first aid kits need to be updated. Items in some kits are outdated and need to be replaced. It was the consensus of the board to send out a note or memo from the selectboard to the department heads to check and update all the first aid kits.
Media
No media present.
CHRIS HOWE made the motion to adjourn. Annette Roydon seconded the motion. THE motion carried.
The meeting adjourned at 10:38 P.M.
The next scheduled meeting is February 2, 2009.
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VERNON SELECTBOARD
BUDGET FORUM
January 14, 2009 7:00 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Robert Miller, Jr.-Chairman Nancy Durborow Sandy Harris
Christiane Howe Jeff Durborow Susan Miller
Mike Ball David Andrews Faith Jobin
Mike Courtemanche David Walker Sheldon Shippee Fred Sage Marylynn Scherlin
MEMBER ABSENT: Kevin Turnley Mario Buisa
Annette Roydon Cindy Turnley Tim Franklin Norm Mallory Cheryl Franklin
Mary Mallory Jerry Morrison
Lenny Pudduzi
At 7:04 pm Chairman Robert Miller opened the selectboard’s Budget Forum at the Vernon Elementary School Cafeteria and welcomed those present, and led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
The SelectBoard’s budget was reviewed in depth and discussed with those present. Changes discussed included, but were not limited to, the following:
Deduction of the $500.00 for Disposal (Roll off). County Tax and other county services.
Increase of Utilities due to lighting and mats which are over 15 years old.
Assistant Custodian needed to cover vacations and work load.
Increase of wages due to new positions.
Increase of $36,459.00 operating cost, Rescue subscriptions.
Deduction of $1000.00 for Knox Boxes.
State Aid cut for proposed road repairs by $14,000.00 was to be paid in January.
Public Comments:
Discussions focused on:
The Budget Forum concluded at 8:45 P.M.
Respectfully submitted _____________ Elaine Howard
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Accepted as Corrected: ___________
Vernon selectboard meeting
December 29, 2008
MEMBER PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Robert Miller-Chairman David Andrews
Christiane Howe Lynda Starorypinski
Annette Royden Chris Garofolo-Media
Mike Ball Sally Brassor
Mike Courtemanche Marylynn Scherlin
Welcome and Pledge of Allegiance
At 6:35 PM chairman Robert Miller called the meeting to order and welcomed those present and led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Public comment
Mike Ball suggested that the meeting be kept to a minimal. Chris Howe suggested that we finish the budgets. Mike Ball stated that he did not have the Humane Society budget and was waiting for prices. Annette Royden also stated she did not have the VLCT budget. Chairman Robert Miller suggested that they begin the meeting with the town attorney selection.
Mike Ball moved to take the town attorney selection out of order from the agenda. Annette Royden seconded: motion was carried.
Town Attorney
Chairman Robert Miller asked the board for there recommendations. Chris Howe recommended Salmon & Norstrand the firm out of Bellows Falls. Annette Royden agreed with Chris Howe. Annette Royden stated that one of their attorneys lives in the Brattleboro area so that would cut down on travel cost. Mike Courtemanche reviewed the documents and also recommended Salmon & Norstrand because of their comparable fees along with their flexibility. Mike Ball also recommended Salmon & Norstrand. Mike Ball asked if they were aware of Act 250 issues. Chris Howe stated that they have a specialist in that field to handle zoning, land use planning and environmental permitting matters along with the Act 250 issues. It was noted that they also specialize in employment and personnel matters including development of employment agreements and separation and termination of employment litigations. It was the consensus of the board that Salmon & Norstrand represents the town of Vernon as their attorney.
Mike Ball moved to except the proposal from Salmon & Norstrand to represent the town of Vernon. Mike Courtemanche seconded; motion carried.
Annette Royden agreed to contact Salmon & Norstrand to set up a meeting with the board.
Chris Howe moved to take the bills and warrants with the treasurer out of order on the agenda. Mike Courtemanche seconded; motion carried.
bills and warrants-treasurer
Sally Brassor presented the bills and warrants to the board.
Chris Howe moved to approve the following warrants 16S/G, 52S, and 53S. Annette Royden seconded; motion carried.
Chris Howe moved that we take the budgets out of order on the agenda. Mike Courtemanche seconded; motion carried.
Chris Howe presented the General Expense budget. Dues and subscriptions would be left at $800. Technology upgrades would be level funded along with Bonds. Mike Courtemanche checked on collection fees with Triple T. and they could stay level funded. Landfill tipping fee would go up to $80,000.
Mike Ball moved to accept the general expenses budget for FY 09/10 at $276,417.00 with an increase of 6.8%. Mike Courtemanche seconded; motion carried.
Chris Howe moved that we take new business/old or unfinished business out of order on the agenda. Mike Ball seconded; motion carried.
new/Old or unfinished business
David Andrews stated that there was a fund set aside in account number 38-7-1-00-62.21 which has a balance of $10,000 for the fire department septic repairs. David Andrews stated that some time ago it was stated that the board okayed the used of the funds to redo the bathroom at the fire department but he could not find where it was stated in the minutes. They would like to get started with that project and David Andrews wanted to get confirmation from the board before they start spending the funds. He believed it was an approved action by the board back last winter. David Andrews stated that it was found that the repairs were not warranted on the septic system. Mike Ball conveyed he would welcome the idea of repairing the bathrooms at the fire station, but using emergency funds for this project that doesn’t appear to be an emergency is not in the best interest of the town. The bathrooms are working and to take this out of the emergency fund to do this task is not the way Mike Ball believes it should be done. The funds originally came from the Emergency Capital Reserve and the monies are currently sitting in a reserve fund. Mike Ball believes that they should be returned back to the capital reserve. David Andrews stated that the cost of the repairs would be approximately $10,000. Mike Ball stated that in the 2006 town report town meeting of March 6, 2006 article 31 was voted to establish an Emergency Capital Reserve fund for the purposes of providing perpetual funds for unanticipated emergency capital replacements or repairs to help fray the costs of the annual appropriation of the capital plan. The selectboard shall be authorized to make expenditures from this fund by majority vote for items $10,000 or more in value.
Mike Ball moved that we direct Sally to replace the monies that was appropriated previously for the septic tank repair back into the EMERGENCY capital reserve fund. Chris Howe seconded; motion carried.
Chris Howe announced that on January 7, 2009 the Vernon selectboard is holding a public forum at the Vernon Elementary School at 7 PM which is a Wednesday night to discuss the select board’s budget for fiscal year 2009/2010. A flyer would go out in the mail to all residents of Vernon.
Chris Howe also stated that a flyer would go out saying Attention all volunteers and all employees of the town of Vernon are invited to a potluck supper on January 16, 2009 from 6 to 9 PM at the Vernon elementary cafeteria. This is for all of us to gather and chat and to thank one another for all the great work we have done this year. Remember this is a potluck supper so bring a dish that you can share. Hope to see you there. Signed; the Vernon Selectboard.
David Andrews informed the board that he talked with Sally in regards to memberships at BJ’s. If the board directs her as such she could add names to the list for employees to take advantage of the memberships. There is no cost to the town, however the board has to direct Sally for her to take action.
Mike Ball moved to have Sally gave a list to all department heads for the BJ memberships. Annette Royden seconded; motion carried.
Chairman Miller would talk to Sally about this issue.
David Andrews stated that the last item on his list was in reference to the bid on the vehicle. It was the consensus of the board to advertise in the local newspaper, and to set a date to release the vehicle out of service. Chris Howe will place the ad in the Brattleboro Reformer. The ad will be placed on 31 December to run on Saturday, January 3, 2009 with closing of bids on January 12, 2009 so that the vehicle may be out of service and stripped of equipment, and the decision would be made at the January 19, 2009 meeting.
Marylynn Scherlin representing the finance advisory committee presented the board with an amendment to the capital plan policy adding paragraph 5 stating; the sale of items being replaced under the Capital Plan. Mike Ball stated that this would be an article in the town report to approve a change in the capital plan policies as stated to add paragraph 5.
Mike Ball moved that we accept the recommendation for a new warnning to be placed in the town report to add paragraph 5 as so written. Annette Royden seconded; motion carried.
Chris Howe conveyed that Mike Courtemanche needs access to the Vernon website.
Chris Howe requested that a motion be made to accept this. The website is hosted by sover net and for Mike Courtemanche to get access to the website he needs to have passwords and login information.
Mike Ball moved that we authorize MIKE cOURTEMANCHE to be our representative from the selectboard through sover net to have full access to our website. Annette Royden seconded; motion carried.
Mike Ball made the motion that the board enter into executive session on a personnel matter with disclosure at this time which might be detrimental to the town and/ or individuals involved. Chris Howe seconded; the motion. The motion carried.
chairman Miller stated that the board had entered an executive session at 7:40 pm and came out of said session at 7:57PM and no action was taken.
Mike Courtemanche made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Mike Ball seconded; motion carried at 8:00 PM.
ADJOURNED
Respectfully Submitted.
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Accepted as Corrected: ___________
VERNON PLANNING COMMISSION
December 18, 2008, 1840 hours,
Vernon Town Office Building
MEMBERS PRESENT: Michael Zaluzny, Rory Underwood, Jeff Dunklee, Steve Skibniowsky, Shane Shippee
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
OTHERS PRESENT: None
MINUTE(S) APPROVAL
OLD BUSINESS
NEW BUSINESS
ADJOURNMENT
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Draft
Accepted as Corrected _____________
VERNON SELECTBOARD
SPECIAL MEETING
DECEMBER 19, 2008 1:00 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHER MEMBERS:
Chairman-Robert Miller Chief Tom Fox
Christiane Howe Assistant Chief David Andrews
Annette Roydon Frank Wetherby
Mike Courtemanche Mark Considine- Rescue
Steve Salengo- Vt. Dept. of Health
Emergency Medical Services Div. Via Conference call
WELCOME AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
At 1:00 pm Chairman Robert Miller called the meeting to order and welcome those present, and led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Public Comment
There were no public comments at that time.
Fire Department
David Andrews stated that Chief Fox would be here soon and he would get things started. David introduced Mark Considine from Rescue Inc. and Frank Wetherby to the board and stated that Steve Salengo, State EMS operations coordinator, could not attend the meeting due to the predicted snow storm, but would be contacted via telephone later at the board’s convenience. David explained that Steve Salengo represents the licensing First Responders groups at the EMS office. In the past Vernon Volunteer Fire Company First Response was formed as an Emergency Medical Service licensed by the State Of Vermont. Each year the Department of Health requires us to re-license. In the process it is only a matter of taking the current license and making any changes then it is reviewed and approved. The Fire Department received a letter back from the State of Vermont stating; upon reviewing the application due to the name change which seems specific from Vernon Volunteer Fire Company First Response to Vernon Volunteer Fire Department First Response that it would not be a renewal application. The town would have to start with a whole new license. David Andrews had a conversation with Steve Salengo about this and his understanding was because it was a private operation and went to a public operation it needs to be re-licensed. David Andrews and Chief Fox are looking forward to see if this is the route that can be done properly by the department. Currently there were twelve names on the application and currently including David there is now only six. The state minimum is six. At this point we are at the bare minimum to perform this service. Due to this being an important issue the Fire Department is addressing this to the board. Discussion on this matter will continue when Chief Fox arrives.
David Andrews stated that he has more information on the Rescue subscriptions. After some discussion with the Town Clerk, David found that is it the Town Treasurer that is involved with this process. The applications come from Rescue Inc. and they can bring them to the Town Treasurer’s office, or mailed, at this point a check is then sent to Rescue Inc. David Andrews picked up some applications from Rescue. Mike Courtemanche asked if a faculty had to purchase one as a whole or if each individual had to purchase a subscription? Mark Considine conveyed that each party needs to have their own subscription. A large faculty could not purchase one as a whole. Each individual must purchase their own in his/or her own name.
Chief Fox joined the board with some updates on the Department. Last weekend Engine 1 and a crew from Vernon Fire Department along with other surrounding departments assisted with helping New Hampshire. Chief Fox believes this is a good experience for his crew and we had the resources to help.
David Andrews gave the board a copy of the application and stated his concerns that the First Responders Services in the Town of Vernon has a requirement to do a quarterly roll up report to the medical director Dr. Backus, this is a summary of calls that you had in the last quarter along with trainings. The reports have been done regularly but no copies have been kept. Vehicle and equipment inventories have no records being maintained. The ALS records have no inspection forms. Also a large amount of equipment has been distributed to the First Responders in town. There is no inventory of who has what and the ALS equipment with First Responders as well as in the trucks has no records either. Training records have not been updated or completed on a regular basis. David Andrews stated that we have six First Responders and if any of them stop responding we will be in non compliance with the State. Mike Courtemanche asked if there were any Fire Department personnel who would want to fill these positions. David Andrews stated that they have currently started a class in Guilford which is a First Responders class and four individuals from the department have joined this class along with four Explorers. The members attending this class are for the departments support and not for making EMS runs; when asked if they would be interested in joining Rescue Inc. the response was no. Mike Coutemanche conveyed his personal experience with dealing with Vernon’s EMS and found it to be an asset to the community and it would be a great loss if this was to go away.
Mike Courtemanche asked David what happen to the four people who do apply as First Responders if we don’t keep them, can they work under Rescue Inc. David replied that First Responders in the town of Vernon could only operate under a district license. A member of Rescue living in the town of Vernon would only be covered under Rescue’s license if they were hired by Rescue to do so. Mark Considine stated that it is important to add, that all towns that Rescue serves, has some form of a first response team.
David asked how the Chief and he should proceed when it’s required to apply and we are 12 days away from not having the minimum number of people to make the response. Do we wait for the state to pull the license, or do we suspend operations until we have the manpower. He asks if we are putting the town in a liability situation if we don’t have the resources to properly make the response? The state of Vermont has granted a 90 day extension to the Vernon Volunteer Fire Company First Response.
Mike Courtemanche stated that he would like us to find a way to keep this under the fire department; completely revamping the procedures so it works the way we need it to and the documentation is correct and completed on a timely matter with the inventories done correctly and everyone is up to date on their certifications. Mike Courtemanche stated that if we can add some police officers to the First Responders it would be a wonderful idea. I can’t speak for the police chief but I think it’s beneficial to the town. They are required to take first aid and a CPR course anyway. Mike Courtemanche asked how long is the training? Chief Fox responded by saying its 48 hours for first responders and it has started already on December 16th. Chairman Miller stated that the people on this list need to be brought in, and asked if they are serious about this and put in their applications. Annette Royden asked why the Chief doesn’t ask them. Chairman Miller stated that the Chief has been trying and they are not responding to his requests. David stated we now have effective and productive meetings, critiques, drills, and calls. He further stated we still do not have enough people. However, it has become a functioning organization, and the command structure works properly. The volunteers are working together to help make improvements and making it a much more professional operation.
Steve Salengo joined in the conversation via telephone. David Andrews told him that the board had been discussing the issues that David and Steve had talked about. We’re between a rock and a hard place here. Steve was asked to speak to the insufficient manpower and how it relates to licensing. He replied by saying that for a first responder service in VT that is the same size for the Vernon coverage area and calls volume, the state board of health looks for a minimum of 5 to 6 certified EMS providers to assure adequate coverage for 24/7, 365 a year for 911 calls. If there are five certified people in the district and the squad assured the department of health and the board of health, that they had adequate coverage planned, because there has never been a problem in the past, the board of health would more than likely find this to be okay. If you told us you only had four people to cover the town, we would be very concerned, because we feel those individuals could become overwhelmed.
Steve continued with another thing to consider, is if Rescue Inc. has jumpers that live in or near Vernon that are willing to augment the first response capability by supplying a Rescue Inc. volunteer who acts as a first responder. These jumpers would also fall under the Rescue Inc. service license. These service jumpers are Rescue Inc. members who live near or in the Vernon response area.
Mike Courtemanche asked Steve if he could expand the last thought to include responders from other fire departments who may live in Vernon. Steve stated that would be more difficult in terms of accountability and who’s hat who was wearing. The nice thing about the Vernon Fire Department and Rescue Inc. is an operational letter of agreement between the first responder organization and the transport ambulance service. The agreement describes how they will be dispatched, how patient care functions will be conducted, when that patient care will get turned over, and other pre-agreements made between the two squads for operating purposes. One of the advantages is that Rescue Inc. is the sole 911 provider for the Vernon area is that correct. The response was, yes.
Mike Courtemanche asked a hypothetical; let’s say we have a first responder from the Brattleboro Fire department that lives in Vernon but he’s off-duty, could that person be used temporarily for the 90 day time frame and could he be enlisted to be a first responder in the event there was an emergency. Steve replies that if the Vernon Fire Department affiliates during this time, in VT an EMS provider cannot perform EMS duties unless they do so under the license of an authorized ambulance or first responder service. Steve continued by telling the board they could approach the Brattleboro Fire department to see if they will cover that individual for workers comp and malpractice or other insurances, Steve felt this would be unlikely because he didn’t think there will be a direct benefit for the Brattleboro Fire Department. It sounds like a risky proposition. What you could do if there are individuals that are not presently with Vernon Fire Dept. but might be available to help out on a temporary basis, the most efficient thing to do is have an arrangement so that they are affiliated with Vernon Fire Department maybe on a temporary basis and that way they are a member of Vernon Fire that is representing the squad on these calls. Does that make sense? Mike Courtemanche replied that yes it did. Annette Roydon asked if it would be possible to keep a first response team here if we reached out to whoever may be available or capable and if they would join the Vernon Fire Department at least temporarily. Steve Salengo answered yes, that is a possibility. That would be up to the town and the fire administration, depending on what you have for bylaws, membership, categories, and temporary or if you need to created a language that doesn’t cause partiality issues with existing members for example. You should also ask if this would cause any hard feelings for existing members if this temporary person were to just come in and start running calls. That’s a local consideration Steve stated. David Andrews asked that if the current license and 90 day extension are listed under the Vernon Volunteer Company first response organization as this doesn’t exist any more, we are now a Municipal Department. Does this present an issue David asked? Steve replied that under VT EMS rules there is a clause that we are not being tough enough on; under Section 3 it states, not less that 30 days before an anticipated change of factors including a station that’s been relocated, significant operational change, a business change, and any other authorized change in corporate or leadership structure, the service shall notify the department at the EMS board of the anticipated change and shall apply for a new license. Once the service application for a new or amended license is complete and it has been accepted by the department the department shall grant, refuse, or conditionally grant a license within 60 days of receiving that written notification. That means that 30 days before the select board passes a motion to make the fire department a completely municipal organization under VT EMS rules we require a 30 day prior notice of that change so that our department has time to discuss licensing options. The priority is protection of the public. Rather than the board of health saying we have to shut them down the priority is that the people are protected. We can work with the squad on a temporary basis and extend that since it’s not a completely different organization the board would not have been able to do this if XYZ fire department started up from scratch and wanted to begin first responder service. It’s a bit of an extension from the past license that was held. Steve asked when the change was effective. David stated, August 4, 2008. Steve stated that from August 4 until today, which is a little over three months, the service has been providing service in a limbo situation. What this license does is provides additional time to get into compliance. The temporary license as we have it worded is for the Vernon fire department, I don’t know if we can, for the temporary license, make a notation in that, the licensee formerly called the volunteer fire company now known as Vernon fire department. We are treating this as a merger. It’s not a different organization it’s still an organization based within the town. There are some fiscal changes but the personnel are the same. The fact that we are working in a municipal capacity rather than a private capacity is the precipitous for the new license. We are just extending the operations that you’ve been doing. From August 4 until today we are saying its okay for you to be operating during this windowed time frame as long as we have assurance that you will be applying for a new service license; because under Vermont EMS rules, licenses cannot be transferable, sold, or bartered. This is the compromise so that you don’t have to quarter out of service. Hopefully this makes some sort of sense to you. If the squad believes that they will not function in that capability of a first responder organization under the structure that was approved on August 4 we would need to know that immediately because that would effect the temporary license. Annette Royden asked if he was speaking of EMS as well as the fire department. Steve replied, no that he was only speaking of EMS operations. David Andrews stated that he has a drafted plan of attack here. The first is the members, which are soon to be former members if they don’t turn in their applications, and haven’t stated a commitment one way or the other, for the chief to get a hold of them and get a firm commitment from them. That let’s us know our existing count by December 31. Chairman Miller asked if the members who haven’t turned in their applications, if they are strictly EMS and they are operating under the old fire company license, why can’t they continue to operate under that until that goes away. Once that goes away they are no longer affiliated with the town of Vernon. Chairman Miller thinks that registered letters need to be sent to them, because it appears that they are not going to respond to you any other way. If they don’t respond by the 31st they are out. David Andrews replied that we get the numbers to say whether they are in or out and we get the applications but if we have less than six members then we suspend the license pending addition of other members. As soon as we get back to that number we send another letter to the state asking them to revoke the suspension and we’d be back operating under the 90 day window. Steve states that there are a lot of options. The key question is do you want there to be in your town any gap in EMS first response. David Andrews replied no we don’t really. The board of health issued this temporary license so there would be an administrative reason for you to cease operations pending your new service license application. The board did not want to interfere with access and delivery of the EMS to the town of Vernon, because of the EMS rule that wasn’t completely followed by in August. The board is willing to do this on a courtesy level to say permit you to function under the license you have and to extend it during this transition. This extension is like a transitory temporary license. It’s grey. You can put a public notice in the papers tomorrow and follow the procedures which I forwarded to Chief Fox and Mike Ball as far as the application process. We will work with you to make this application occur as fast as you would like it to occur within the warning of meeting arrangements. It’s possible to get a permanent license before March 31. You have up to March 31. I can try to get this license before the board of health so that a February start time for the new license to become effective is not out of the question. David Andrews understood. There is a new electronic application which takes about 20 minutes to fill out after the public notice period deadline a district board meeting needs to be held where the district reviews the application, makes recommendations, and submits it to the health department then the department can request a board of health meeting in this case since it’s pretty straightforward they will probably meet by telephone within a matter of two weeks in the minimum to get a quorum together and then vote on the application. February start date is not out of the question. Frank Wetherby asked what if you have a select board member who votes against a municipal model who is a district 13 chair person involved in this process how you could maintain objectivity. Steve stated we do not have regulations over the EMS districts because they are created under title 24 they are separate from the department of health they are their own sub unit of government however what we have seen other districts who might have a conflict of interest issue is a district officer abstain from voting and we will accept a signature on the application from the district vice chair if there is a conflict of interest for that. I had a lengthy discussion with Mike Ball regarding the administrative process of the new service licensure. We did not discuss any position. Mike Ball spoke to me in terms of what would need to happen at the district level for the process of this new application. He didn’t indicate any other interest in the inquiry. Chris Howe asked David if that has happened, and the towns EMS team wants to go separate from the fire department. David responded by saying, not officially. Frank Wetherby as that given the municipal fire departments and their relationship with EMS from a state perspective are the EMS squads integrated into the fire department for most models or are squads separate and apart from the fire department in the municipal model. Steve replied yes and yes. Vermont has an equal distribution of private EMS organizations and fire-based organizations. Over the last five years we’ve seen more fire departments that did not have first response capabilities pursue first response licensure. Naturally there has been an increase in fire-based EMS care. For ambulance services there are more licensed private ambulance services than there are licensed fire-based ambulances. Frank asked if the first responder is separate from the municipal fire department or is it integrated as a fire department. Steve answered by stating that it is up to the town. Under title 24 the town government has the power do decide who their EMS provider will be. That includes ambulance service and first responder service. The title does not specify how the town will provide that coverage to its citizens. Chris Howe asked Steve if the first responders want to be separate from the fire department would they have to come before the select board to make that decision. Steve replied that in most places in Vermont it is the town that is in change according to title 24 or what services the town needs for EMS coverage are not private citizens that want a separate organization, so the answer would be yes they can but would have to get the okay from the select board to be separate from the fire department. However, you as a select board would have to figure out what would be most effective and cost-effective for the town. Does that answer your question? Say there was a new town in Vermont and they had a select board and the board said we need to provide a basic public service and one of those services is EMS, how do we go about doing that? I would show them title 24 under Vermont law that the local government has the authority to work in conjunction with the local EMS district to decide who will provide the EMS care. As long as the designated squads are acceptable to the district, the district medical advisor, and the state board of health and the likelihood that this service can be licensed to provide that level of care is very high. If there is a dispute in the town is not in agreement with the organizations who are seeking to provide that service then it becomes more in-depth and difficult to mitigate who would be the best to provide that care. What the EMS office in the department of health will not do is get involved with the selection process. We have no preference as to who would provide that care in the town of Vernon. We do explain the requirements and procedures. Does that make sense? Chris Howe replied yes, and thank you. With that the board had no more questions and told Steve he had been a tremendous help today. Steve added I wish I could have been there in person but with the weather and travel it didn’t seem like the right choice. I do want to let you all know that you can all contact me in the office at any time. District 13 has been a very active and resourceful district. Mark Considine has had some long standing knowledge. I encourage you to contact the district board and the district medical advisor in your area. All are very good resources. I appreciate everyone’s interest in this. The board thanks Steve for all his help.
Mike Courtemanche asked Mark Considine if most of the first responders in the surrounding towns are affiliated with a fire department and Mark replied yes they are. Not all of them are pure municipal models some fire companies in VT are volunteer associations that are independent of the exact town structure but they still are a fire department entity and the first response is part of that. Chris Howe stated that according to what Steve was saying that someone from our department had called them asking about a separate entity, and asked David if that was happening and is that why our EMS team are not reenlisting. David Andrews stated that he has no direct knowledge of that. Chris Howe asked who would be responsible for all the equipment that they would need, would it be the tax payers. Mike Courtemanche stated that they would need funding, unless they were going to charge for this service and so yes it would be a tax payer. Mike Courtemanche asked if it is the intention of the fire department to keep this service running provided we can. You aren’t looking to eliminate this. David Andrews stated himself and Tom came to the board with a problem without a solution and needed more brains to come to a consensus on what we need to do going forward. Chris Howe suggested writing those letters. David Andrews suggest putting it in a form of a motion.
The Board thanked Mark Considine for his input and for coming down to Vernon in the snowstorm.
Annette Royden made a motion regarding the Vernon Fire department that in our efforts to remain true to our job that we provide health and safety to our citizens. There is a three fold points to this motion. To identify all individuals who wish to remain in the Vernon Fire Department by the end of the year and to initiate the new license application for the Vernon Fire department as opposed to the Vernon Fire company and to actively recruit individuals who would be willing to respond to the town. Chris Howe seconded; motion CARRIED.
David Andrews asked if the board would commit to working with the police department to have the police personnel become a minimum first responder with the module one and module 2.
Chairman Miller stated that he will put it on the agenda so that the select board could encourage the police chief to have himself and his staff does so. If the consensus of the board is such I don’t see any reason why not. With no further discussion the Chairman stated he would entertain a motion to adjourn.
Mike Courtemanche MOVED TO ADJOURN AT 3:23 PM. Chris Howe SECONDED; MOTION CARRIED.
Respectfully Submitted by Elaine Howard
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Draft
Accepted as Corrected _____________
VERNON SELECTBOARD MEETING
DECEMBER 15, 2008 6:30 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHER MEMBERS:
Robert Miller, Jr - Chairman Sandy Harris Sheldon Shippee
Chris Howe Fred Sage Sally Brassor
Mike Ball David Andrews Fred Wetherby
Annette Roydon Eleanor Allen Marilyn Scherlin
Michael Courtemanche David Walker
WELCOME AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
At 6:35 pm Chairman Robert Miller called the meeting to order and welcome those present, and led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Chris Howe moved to suspend the rules and include on the agenda the minutes of December 8, 2008 and Bills and Warrants with the Treasurer. Mike Ball seconded; motion carried.
David Andrews stated that there were no bids on the agenda for the sale of the vehicle. As stated in the December 1, 2008 minutes the minimum bid was to be $1500.00. After much discussion it was decided to discuss this under old business. With no further public comment Chairman Miller moved on to minute approval.
MINUTE APPROVAL
Mike Courtemanche stated that he was quoted that the market has tanked but what he meant was the market was bottoming out referring to December 1, 2008 minutes. To be corrected in the December 1, 2008 minutes. Also to be added into the minutes of December 8, 2008 the actual cost of the Rec. Department’s budget of $250,267.00. Mike Ball moved to accept the December 8, 2008 minutes as corrected. Chris Howe seconded the motion. Mike Courtemanche moved to accept the December 1, 2008 minutes as corrected. Chris Howe seconded; motion carried.
TREASURER- BILLS AND WARRANTS
Sally gave Chairman Miller the election forms for the gifts for the holidays. Mike Ball had agreed to pick up the food gifts. After some discussion the board moved on to the warrants.
Chris Howe moved to approve the following warrants 14SG, 15SG, 50S and 51S. Annette Roydon seconded; motion carried.
Sally had spoke with Robert Miller in regards to the vehicle at the highway garage and is feeling very uncomfortable with reporting to the Banking and Insurance Industry not having or knowing all of the details to register a complaint. Sally was hoping that this could be discussed with the town attorney when the board hires one. Sally turned over the packet of paper work to Chairman Miller. Mike Ball stated that the VLCT recommends that a bill be sent to the state so that the town can revamp the approximately $9000.00 that was paid to Brattleboro Towing for the storage of said vehicle and the removal from the States’ portion of the Town Forest.
Sally conveyed to the board about the mileage rate set from the federal government is going down from .585 to .550 cents per mile effective January 1, 2009.
Chris Howe moved to set the mileage reimbursement to .550 cents per mile effective January 1, 2009. Mike Courtemanche seconded: the motion carried.
Annette Roydon told Sally that she was sorry for handing in travel expenses late. Sally asked the board if they had a better plan other than the 30-day reimbursement policy if not maybe the board would elect to change what is currently in place. Annette Roydon added that this was not town monies and not coming from of the town’s budget it comes from Vt. Emergency Management funds and she understands the policy however, she feels this doesn’t fall under the personnel policy. Mike Courtemanche asked Sally if she thought that the 30 days are too short for people to submit their paper work. Sally stated that she doesn’t think that it’s too short of a time frame. If the board wants to treat Vt. Emergency Management funds differently then it needs to be stated so. Sally conveyed that the money is not town money but is approved for expenditure by the town. The board can amend the reimbursement policy to include things like this. Annette Roydon thinks that the board should not change the policy on her behalf.
FINANCE ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Marilyn Scherlin and Sheldon Shippee present the board with the Capital Plan that they had revised. Sheldon Shippee went thru each line item and changes were made with consideration of a 4% increase on the items requested, due to inflation, this does not increase the Capital Plan. Reducing costs of replacement and extending years to some vehicles. Recommendations by the Finance Advisory Committee are to reduce cost of replacement of Town Van by $20,000.00 with replacement date moved out two years to 2023/2024. Pickup truck ¾ ton (1995) replacement date 2011/2012 for a reduced cost of $35,000.00 instead of $37,000.00.Dump Truck (2002) reduced to $175,000.00 rather than $190, 00.00. With some discussion as to the pricing of trucks the committee reported that calls were made to dealerships and prices were quoted. Gas Pump Cover increased to $49,300.00 with $9,300.00, which was spent on engineering. The committee believes this is something that needs to be taken care of. The committee also needs to revisit the Diesel Dump Truck (2004) line item to do some checking on figures. The two ton Dump Truck was on the Capital plan as a one ton and listed in inventory as a one ton but it was Sheldon Shippee understands is that it is in fact and should be noted as such in the town report. One suggestion was to move out the replacement cycle to twelve years because of the lack of use compared to the other dump trucks. Chris Howe asked if it would be explained to the town’s people at town meeting about the change. Sheldon Shippee will explain this at town meeting day. Keeping this at the $80,000.00 however, we do not know the type of sander that we have so this amount may change.
Sheldon Shippee reported on the Fire Department items and it was suggested to all department heads as well as the Fire Department to have their presentations ready for town meeting day on items that they will be adding to the Capital Plan. The committee suggested no changes to there line items as this time.
It was suggested by the Finance Advisory Committee not to replace the Police Department’s 2002 Dakota pickup that was scheduled to be replaced 2008/2009. The Advisory Committee had discussed this with other police departments in surrounding areas, after meeting with the other Police Departments; it seemed feasible to stay with only two Cruisers’. With the mileage of each vehicle considered the committee suggested that the replacement year could be moved out to six years with 150 thousand total miles being the goal. Other police department’s replace their vehicles at 90 thousand miles but get new cruisers each year thru grant monies. Mike Ball stated that it is really heavily dependant on the maintenance of the vehicle that would determine the level of performance. Marilyn Scherlin stated that it was discussed at lengths that all town vehicles are maintained regularly, with daily inspections on each vehicle. Chris Howe stated that our Police Chief has requested a SUV or four-wheel drive and did the committee think this was an important vehicle to have? Sheldon Shippee said he is not speaking for the finance committee but he personally thought it was a good idea to have that type of vehicle available either by purchasing one or making the town highway’s 4-wheel drive pick-up available for the police to use when necessary, as the town used to do that in the past. With much research from departments in the area the Ford Crown Victoria’s seem to be the best choice for most Police Departments. In replacing with the same kind of vehicles some light bars and equipment would be interchangeable until items actually needed to be replaced saving the town the cost of buying new light bars and equipment with each new vehicle purchased. If the town only had two cruisers there would be a savings per year of approximately $5, 00.00 plus insurance and maintenance. The committee did get information on an Explorer and found that the best way to purchase vehicles was thru a program from the State whereas other departments also purchase there vehicles at the same time directly from Ford with major reductions on the purchase price. If the Explorer was purchased without that program and purchased directly from a dealer the price for a utility vehicle would be with town discounts $27,000.00 and the Ford Crown Vic’s would be $26,500.00 this would not include lettering or light bars and installation of radio’s. Mike Ball asked if communications happened between the department heads. Sheldon Shippee stated that there has been no response from the Police Department. David Andrews asked if the police department radio equipment is in compliance with narrow band mandate along with the highway department. Marilyn Scherlin stated that it was suggested to the chief to get with the other department to purchase the needed radios. It was suggested to the chief to shop around for a better deal on several rather that just a few.
The line item for the town office HVAC would be eliminated due to the fact that it is under the $10,000.00 it must be a separate article or placed into the Select board’s budget. Town windows were completed this year so this item was taken out. The Town Clerk’s request for a new copier would stay the same per Sandy Harris. Records restoration decreased to $10,000.00 from $50,000.00 per town clerk. The Town Clerk’s vault expansion was increased by $10,000.00. The line item for the town office foyer project had plans done by an engineer in 2004 and have not been carried out and it’s the recommendation to move forward with the project. The estimated projected cost for the foyer is set at $60,000.00. Sally Brassor stated the foyer project money is suppose to be spread out over six years and we need to move forward with this project the guide lines do state in advance of the time when you need the money depending on how much money is needed, Sally Brassor thought that would be an issue. The guidelines state, that if you need $60,000.00 or $70,000.00 you need to have it drawn out over six years. The board suggested was to take this off the Capital Plan, and putting it into an article. Sally Brassor agreed. Marilynn Scherlin will meet with Sandy Harris to work on this. The board thanked the Finance Committee for all their hard work.
Mike Ball moved to accept the recommendations of the Finance Committee with the correction of the $49,300.00 for the Gas Pump cover and the $65,000.00 for the foyer taken out for an article. Annette Roydon seconded; motion carried.
Chris Howe moved to take out of order Sandy Harris in regards to the Pole and Wire item. Mike Ball seconded; motion carried.
Pole and Wire-Sandy Harris
Sandy Harris has a petition and order for pole and wire locations. The location is at the end of the pavement on Lily Pond Road. Fairpoint is requesting to replace and maintain poles and associated wires. While the board was looking over the paper work Sandy Harris stated that she received communication from Kristensen, Cummings about the file boxes that are not to be opened. Sandy Harris believes that this a problem because of the delinquent tax files. Annette Roydon had spoken to an attorney about that and they are our files and can do what we please with them. Sandy Harris needs to get the board’s permission to get the delinquent tax files for the tax collector because she has opted to retain Laurie Rowell as her attorney for delinquent tax collection, which she has the right to do that. The delinquent tax files should be with Laurie Rowell and not waiting for another attorney. They are delinquent tax files not town files. Chairman Miller stated that he has talked to an attorney and the files are staying right here, however there is information that does not concern us and should not be touched until a town attorney has looked over them. It was the consensus of the board that all files are to stay here and not to be touched by anyone until a new attorney has been hired. Sandy Harris asked when that would happen and the board decided to meet December 29, 2008.
Chris Howe MOVED THAT EACH board member sign the petition and order for pole and wire locations for Fairpoint on Lilly Pond Road. Annette Roydon seconded; Motion carried.
Sandy Harris announced that the joint fiscal committee has deferred any discussions on the proposed local highway aid cut of nearly 3 million dollars until full legislation convenes in January so far this is the only a formal proposal introduced to dealing with the funding problem. Sandy Harris suggest that the board write a letter to the commissioner of taxes because, it appears there is going to be a surplus of 20.7 million in the education fund, which by statue is suppose to be returned in the form of a tax deduction which would be about 2%. However the commissioner is opting to not uphold the statue and has decided not to return those funds. Sandy Harris suggested a letter to the commissioner and to recommends that he abide by the law. Sandy Harris will keep the board updated
.
Sandy Harris passed quote from Nancy Arnone in regards to the scanning solutions at the town office. This would be for a presentation at a later date.
Mike Courtemanche moved to have a 5-MINUTE break. Chris Howe seconded; motion CARRIED @ 7:59.
The meeting was called back to order at 8:07.
Police Clerk
Annette Roydon agreed to speak on this item. Due to several circumstances interviewing is to be started Tuesday and Wednesday and Mike Ball will be going away. Annette Roydon suggests that we not change interviews and proposes that Chris Howe be the other interviewer along with herself. The board asked Mike Ball if he is okay with that, he stated that he was. Annette Roydon wanted three people on the interview committee for all eleven applicants asking the same questions. The board agreed that Annette Roydon, Chris Howe and Kevin Turnley with do the interviewing.
Update VLCT- Annette Roydon
Annette Roydon stated that she talked with Darlene and explained that the problem is that employees aren’t reporting first injuries. Her suggestion was to have employee’s refer to the personnel policies. Annette Roydon stated that she looked in the personnel policies and found that they were not in there. Annette Roydon relayed this to Sally Brassor and had asked Darlene to send a draft that could be placed in the personnel policies.
Updates-Mike Ball
Mike Ball stated that the Humane Society is working on updating their policy and didn’t have any figure for us yet. The Humane Society stated they would get back to Mike Ball when they have them.
Mike Ball stated the Joint Safety Charter articles were provided to the board and had not received any comments. He needs input from the board to finish it up. Which could be done at a later date? Chris Howe asked if this was the same safety committee she had asked about previously? Mike Ball stated that it was and that it needs different representatives from each department to talk about issues that they have seen those areas of safety that need improving and how to implement safety rules. We would benefit by getting additional training and dealing with safety issues right away. Recommendations could be made to the board for additional funds for safety issues and there could be a grant which VLCT could fund that. Mike Ball will wait for the board members to get their comments to him so he can move forward with this
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Mike Ball stated that on the Revised Bid Policy he put out an actual revised bid policy to everyone. Changing the wording in the policy and to lock a person in for two years would be one of the changes. With much discussion on the bid policy Mike Ball will continue to work on the wording of this. He will supply a copy to department heads as well for there review. Mike Ball will have this ready for the next meeting on December 29, 2008.
Mike Ball continued with the policy of the abandoned cars and storage, which VLCT send information regarding outdoor storage of junk vehicles. Mike Ball stated that this is really more of a nuisance rather than an environmental problem. Mike Ball will check with VLCT on a draft or ordinance from other towns and what they suggest. We could incorporate their ordinance to make it ours. With some discussion the board will give this matter to WCR for there suggestions as well
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Mike Ball will finish up with Humane Society, Joint Safety Charter, Revised Bid Policy and Abandoned Cars for meeting on December 29, 2008.
Police Department
Chairman Miller stated that Kevin Turnley was unable to be here tonight. Police Department would be tabled until January 5, 2009 meeting. The board discussed the audit and what they would like to see done from the police chief. Mike Courtemanche stated that a progress report of some sort would be helpful to track things that are completed and tasks still to be done along with a time frame. It was the consensus of the board that the Police Chief will report to the board completed tasks and those tasks that are still being implemented and that there should be a time frame involved. With trainings and other items the time frame could be much longer. The board will be looking for results.
Budgets
Mike Ball presented the budget for the Windham Regional Planning Commission for FY 08/10 Proposed Budget.
Mike Ball moved to accept the Planning Commission FY 09/10 Proposed Budget of $3,870.00 with an increase of 1.08%. Chris Howe seconded; motion carried.
Chris Howe presented select Board budget. With some discussion to level funding and legal services the board tabled the select board proposed FY09/10 budget to the next meeting on December 29, 2008.
Chris Howe presented General Expenses. With discussion to the tipping fee and refuse collection and price increases with Waste Management the board will table this for the next meeting on December 29, 2008 with Mike Couretmanche checking with
Triple T for the figures.
Building & grounds presented by Chairman Miller. With discussion to the building repairs the board recommends the repair to the building (drainage) along with the foyer project both be as articles. It was the consensus of the board that the foyer project and the perimeter drain be in the same article but clearly separate so as not to confuse on either project. Annette Roydon conveyed her concerns on increases in the budget.
Mike Ball moved to accept the Building & Grounds proposed FY 09/10 budget in the amount of $105,619.00 with a 2.53% increase. Chris Howe seconded; motion carried.
Rescue’s Operating Budget presented by Mike Ball. Based on per capita assessment for year 2000 for 2141 individuals a $20.00 capita charge totals $42,820.00. Mike Ball had checked that with Sandy Harris arrive at the actual census number of 2141.
Chris Howe moved to accept the proposed FY 09/10 Operating Budget for Rescue at $42,820.00 which is a 5%. Mike Courtemanche seconded; motion carried.
It was brought to the board’s attention that Vernon households can get an annual subscription to Rescue to cover expenses not covered by their private insurance, and if they do not have insurance, for care and transport provided by Rescue. Should Vernon residents need assistance in purchasing this subscription they should contact the Town Treasurer, Sally Brassor or the Select Board members as stated in the 2007 Town Report page 34 paragraph 5. Frank Wetherby stated that the fee that we pay to Rescue for coverage along with the quality of care and that they provide at the highest-level 24 hours each day is very reasonable. David Andrews challenged the board members to find ten people in this town who can’t afford this and have those people contact Sally Harris. They would have to get the subscription form from perhaps the Town Clerk or from Rescue. The cost would be $45.00 if they have insurance and $100.00 if they don’t. David Andrews also suggested that an article to transfer some of these funds to Rescue in lieu of the assessment.
Other Public Safety-Annette Roydon
Annette Roydon presented the Public Safety proposed budget. With some items level funded and some reduced.
Mike Ball moveD to accept the proposed FY 09/10 Other Public Safety budget of $5,050.00 for a -18.8% reduction. Mike Courtemanche seconded; motion carried.
Trash Removal-Mike Courtemanche
Mike Courtemanche stated that the $28,000.00 fees would not affect the budget due to Windham Solid Waste Management fund that pays for district dues each year and that is where the increase is going to come out of.
Mike Courtemanche will be attending a Waste Management meeting on Thursday evening and asked if anyone had any input or how he should vote. Mike reminded the Select board that the school board is also meeting that night. Chris Howe will attend the school board meeting while Mike Courtemanche and Chairman Miller attend the Waste Management meeting.
Chris Howe suggested that the select board should have a public forum to discuss the items in the budget. The board will hold a Public Forum at the school on January 7, 2008 at 7:00 PM as long as it is ok with Darrell Clark. Chris will contact Darrell. It was the consensus of the board that Chris Howe set this project up.
New/Old Business
David Andrews stated that as directed from Fire Chief Tom Fox he would like to request a meeting with the board, himself and the Fire Chief to discuss two very specific matters. The first matter involves both a contractual issue and a personnel issue. The second matter involves a personnel matter. More details will be provided at the future meeting. Due to the timeliness of this matter they are requesting a date as soon as possible. Dave Andrews and Chief Fox were hoping the board could meet with them as early as Friday December 19, 2008. It was the consensus of the board to meet on Friday, December 19, 2008 at 1:00 pm.
David Andrews had input on the bid process on the Suburban. After checking book valve with NADA and Kelly blue book and found that the list price was 1,150.00, however the minutes recorded the starting bid at 1,500.00. It was the consensus of the board to look into this matter further before accepting any proposed bids on the vehicle.
Chris Howe asked if Annette Roydon would get paid for her travel.
Mike Ball moved to pay Annette Roydon with a Fast Check for her travel. Chris Howe seconded; motion carried.
Mike Courtemanche moved to adjourn. Chris Howe seconded; motion carried.
Adjourned @ 10:10 PM.
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Accepted as Corrected 12/15/08
VERNON SELECTBOARD MEETING
SPECIAL MEETING
December 8, 2008
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHER MEMBERS:*************************************************************************************************************
Accepted as Corrected: ___________
VERNON SELECTBOARD MEETING
December 1, 2008
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Robert Miller Jr Marylynn Scherlin
Michael Courtemanche Sally Brassor
Chris Howe Mary Miller
Annette Roydon Eleanor Allen (Cookie)
Mike Ball
WELCOME & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
At 6:35 pm Chairman Robert Miller called the meeting to order, after welcoming all those present, asked everyone to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT
No public comment at this time, Chairman Robert Miller moved on to minute approval.
MINUTE APPROVAL
Annette stated she did not say at the last meeting that she had walked through the Town Forest with Steve Hardy and David Walker just that she had met with Steve Hardy. Also a correction within that same paragraph says “for the rains” should say “before the rains”. Mike Courtemanche stated that under the Police Department in the first sentence after the word discuss the sentence should end and delete the rest of that sentence as that was not said there.
Mike Ball MADE A MOTION TO ACCEPT THE MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 17TH AS CORRECTED Annette Roydon seconded; MOTION CARRIED with four ayes and Mike Ball abstained as he was not at that meeting.
TREASURER – BILLS & WARRANTS
Sally told the board that Sandy (Town Clerk) had brought the Steve Hardy bill to her to bring to the board for a signature and for payment. Sandy asked Sally to relay to the board that this was the best mapping out that has been done for Vernon and Sandy stated that Steve did an excellent job and recommended the board sign and approve this payment.
Mike Ball MADE A MOTION TO PAY THE GREEN MOUNTAIN FORESTRY BILL OF $1,868.66 AND TO HAVE THE CHAIRMAN SIGN SAID BILL Mike Courtemanche seconded; MOTION CARRIED.
Chris Howe asked how the board felt about someone using there own money then filing for reimbursement, as there is a reimbursement eight times to the same person on the warrants. Chris didn’t know if maybe the board wanted people to try and use the town’s venders as much as possible, because we have charge accounts with the town venders and they would then bill the town. Chris stated that she certainly and positively did not feel that anyone was doing anything wrong she was just wondering if the board wanted town personnel to use the town venders more. Mike Courtemanche stated that the venders used in this case might not have normal venders used by the town. Annette concurred.
Chris Howe MADE THE MOTION TO APPROVE AND SIGN THE FOLLOWING WARRANTS, 12S/G and 48S and 49S. Annette seconded; MOTION CARRIED.
Mike Ball told the board that the vehicle that was towed out of the Town Forest was not actually on town property, it was on State property called the Roaring Brook Conservation Land as Mike had worked with the Listers and the maps of the Town Forest showing that this is in fact outside the bounds of the Town Forest. Mike stated that the Town should go after the state for reimbursement of the Brattleboro Towing bill. Mike Courtemanche stated that it was his impression that the Town Insurance was going to go after Geico Insurance. Sally stated that Geico won’t reimburse anyone as it is thought that the owner of the vehicle is responsible for doing this to his/her own vehicle and not a crime of car theft. Sally also stated that there is no negligence and that is what our insurance is for and therefore the town insurance will not pay either. The town insurance agent told Sally that her and Brattleboro Towing should fill out a complaint and send it to the Insurance and Banking Industry because Geico is making it difficult; it is their Insurance, their vehicle. Geico however is not going to cover it because, as stated earlier, they feel that there was fraud involved. Sally suggested also the board should have a policy on abandoned vehicles and where you’re going to store. Mike Ball asked why it stayed so long at Brattleboro Towing before they came to the board. Sally explained that Brattleboro Towing was waiting for Geico and was getting the run around from the owner as well as Geico. Mike Ball will right up a policy for the board on abandoned vehicles and storage of them, and the Joint Safety Charter and get that to the board for approval for the December 15th meeting.
The Chairman asked Sally to stay a minute as he asked the board what the pleasure of the board was as far as the Turkey/Ham issue or the giving gift certificates. It was asked by Chairman Miller if we would like to give the Fire Department some money to have a Christmas Dinner. It was the consensus of the board to give the Fire Department some money toward their annual Christmas Dinner. It was the consensus of the board for Sally to ask the employees, in their paychecks, what they would like and for Sally to report that back to the board by the December 15th meeting.
The board thanked Sally.
FINANCE ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Marylynn reported to the board that the committee is nearing the end of the task that was given them for the Capital Plan. Marylynn said the committee wasn’t sure if the board wanted the committee to go through everything step by step or not so what they did was go line item by line item and then asked the responsible parties for justification as to why the item was there and how they came up with the amount. Marylynn told the board the committee researched these amounts as well, and have put together a plan with some other info that the selectboard might want to consider. Marylynn wanted to know before the committee worked on the final report, if this was what the board had wanted. It was the consensus of the board that it sounded like the committee was doing an awesome job. Marylynn was asked to come back to the board on the December 15th with the committee’s draft and she was asked to get a copy to the board before then so that it could be read before December 15th. The board thanked Marylynn. The board also thanked the whole Finance Advisory Committee made up of; Marylynn Scherlin, Sheldon Shippee, Shane Shippee, Lynda Starorypinski, Faith Jobin and Elaine Howard.
CEMETERY CARETAKER BIDS
Marylynn reported to the board that the people that had but in bids for the caretaking of the cemeteries last year were asked to place bids again this year. Most said they were not interested and one that did not return any calls was $26,000.00 last year and stated last year he would not go below that amount, so the only one we are left with is the choice of the Cemetery Committee which is Howe Lawn Care. Mike Ball MADE A MOTION TO ACCEPT THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE CEMETERY COMMITTEE AND HIRE HOWE’S LAWN CARE IN THE AMOUNT OF $17,000.00 FOR THE YEAR 2009 Annette Roydon seconded; MOTION CARRIED. The board stated that the cemeteries looked wonderful. The board thanked Marylynn. Mike Ball suggested changing the bid policy once again to allow the selectboard to contract out for 2 years. Mike Ball was asked by the board to rewrite the policy and bring it back to the board for the meeting of December 15th. Annette asked if the new policy affects the Listers as to whom they wanted for the printing of the Town Report. It does in the fact that they now fall under the $5000.00 limit, however they must get three verbal bids as it is over the $2500.00 per the newly revised bid policy. Chairman Miller was asked to notify the Listers that all they need is three verbal bids.
UPDATE – SELECTBOARD SECRETARY
Annette Roydon MADE A MOTION TO GO INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION ON A CONTRACTUAL MATTER THE DISCLOSURE OF WHICH AT THIS TIME COULD BE DETRIMENTAL TO THOSE INVOLVED AND OR THE TOWN. Mike Ball seconded; MOTION CARRIED.
Chairman Miller stated the board had gone into executive session at 7:34 and came out at 7:42 and no action had been taken.
Mike Ball MADE A MOTION TO GO WITH THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE CHAIRMAN AND MIKE AND HIRE THE TOP PICK (NOT NAMED UNTIL NOTIFICATION OF SAID PERSON) AT THE RATE OF $12.49 PER HOUR FOR NINETY DAYS THEN INCREASE THE HOURLY RATE TO $13.49 AFTER SATISFACTORILY COMPLETING THE PROBATIONARY PERIOD Chris Howe seconded; MOTION CARRIED.
UPDATE – TOWN ATTORNEY
Mike Courtemanche reported that the RFP’s had been sent out to the many Law Firms and now we were just waiting for them to respond. The deadline for said Law Firms is December 5th. The board thanked Mike.
NEW/OLD OR UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Annette asked the Chairman how many applicants there were for the Police Department’s Clerk position. Bob stated he knew of four. All those interested in applying for this position has until Thursday, December 4th to put an application in, then Mike B., Annette and Kevin will begin the interviews. Then those that do the interviewing will report back to the board at the meeting of December 15th.
Mike Ball asked if a copy of the Vermont State Constable letter went to Kevin and if not a copy of it should go into Kevin’s box as well as the Constables. Chairman Miller thought one was made for Kevin but will ask Sandy to make a copy for Kevin if not.
Mike Ball asked the board about the Town Clerk’s remittances. Mike stated that based on this he could not compare to the actual budgeted amounts. Chris told him this was just a Fiscal year to date figures of the income from that office and it had nothing to do with budgets.
Chris asked if anyone had contacted VLCT yet. Annette said no as she could not get a hold of anyone during the Thanksgiving week.
Chris also brought the fact that a few meetings ago we had received a letter from the Sheriff’s department about animal control. Annette told the board that it was just a generic letter. Mike asked who was going to talk to Windham Humane Society to be sure there was no issues as to what we are going to be putting into our 2009/2010 budget for what they are going to charge us for housing our animals. It was stated that it was believed the Humane Society was closed do to no funding. The board was told that the Humane Society was fostering out their animals. Mike Ball asked if we should have someone call them to be sure. Mike Courtemanche stated that we have a liaison. Mike Ball looked it up and informed the board it was him and Bob Miller. So Mike Ball will contact them and report back to the board on December 15th.
Mike Courtemanche reported that the recycling is basically in the tank. The recycling board is considering increasing the tipping fee and the assessments. We don’t use them for this part of it but because we are a part of the District they charge Triple T which would create a trickle down effect which would affect us in the next budget year. Our increase would be somewhere between the amount of $4000.00 - $8000.00. Mike stated that he would be getting the paper work from them as they are putting together a cost analysis then Mike will be able to let the board know exactly what it will cost. Mike Ball also mentioned that the book recycle bin is in.
Chris updated the board on the Job Descriptions which have been reformatted by Harry Snyder and sent out to the departments for comments on them and then Chris will send them back to Mr. Snyder. Eleanor Allen asked Chris if the job descriptions were the same one that Chris had done. Chris told Eleanor yes she thought that they were pretty much the same and that Mr. Snyder was reformatting them as well. Mike Ball stated that Mr. Snyder was also wording them in a legal manner as well.
Chairman Miller stated that the Fire Department wants to put the Suburban out to bid. The board thought it to be a good idea and the minimum for bidding would begin at $1500.00. Chris brought up that she had spoken to Lynda Starorypinski and Lynda told Chris that the board had said we would do a mailing of flyers. Chris stated she didn’t remember the board saying that but talked to Sandy and Sandy said she was going to do a mass mailing and that all flyers had to be in by Thursday, December 4th.
A flyer will be sent to all town residents about this vehicle and maybe it could be placed on the following trading websites, Craigslist, VLCT, VY, and the School Districts’ websites. The Fire Chief or his assistant should do a flyer to go out with the mass mailing. Annette will do the flyer for the woodlots and meet with Sandy about it.
Mike Courtemanche updated the board about the meeting with Sandy on the Dreamweaver website so that Mike could have access to it. Sandy told Mike that she only has one licensed copy of Dreamweaver which Sandy is more then willing to share but Mike would have to go into her office to use it and to schedule it around her time. Mike stated that if we have enough in the budget maybe he could he purchase another copy. It was the consensus of the board that Mike Courtemanche pursues the purchase of another copy of Dreamweaver. Annette stated that Mike should also look into purchasing her sons book on Dreamweaver sold by Amazon.Com.
Mike Courtemanche MADE A MOTION TO ADJOURN Mike Ball seconded; MOTION CARRIED. 8:35pm.
ADJOURNED
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EOC Meeting November 19, 2008
Annette Roydon EMD Mike Courtemanche – Assist. Transportation
Jon Hall – Back-up Rad Officer Christiane Howe – Secretary – Health Officer
Bobby Miller – Selectboard Chair and Fiscal Officer
And Rad Officer David Andrews – Assistant Fire Chief
Frank Wetherby – Transportation Kevin Turnley Police Chief
Susan Miller PFO
Annette passed out Pamphlets titled; VEM Participant Guide to RERP Drills and Exercises in 2007, to the EOC members. Annette also passed out info on the dates of the future drills. The dates are as follows; Feb 25th, Mar 18th, Apr 15th, and June 10th all of 2009. Annette stated that if you can not make one of the first three drills then we are to let her know. However, on the June 10th drill everyone is to please be there as this is an evaluated exercise and all is needed to get that top rated evaluation.
Annette told everyone that Disater Lan Training will be coming up either on November 25th or December 12th of this year. Kevin Turnley and Mike Courtemanche stated that it would be easier for them if it could be on December 12th the whole group agreed. Annette will try and get the later date.
Annette also told everyone that ICS 200 training is coming up with the trainer to be Mike Sorenson. Discussion followed as to how many hours everyone wants to go to this as it could be on Saturdays for three – four hours for 3 Saturdays for a total of 10 hours training. Annette will let us know if it will be in January or February 2009.
Bob Schwarts from FEMA will be coming to give us the ins and outs of what is expected of us during a drill or an actual emergency. He will be coming to our January meeting. Annette has asked the Bernardston, Ma. EM team if they would like to come as well.
Annette also informed the group that VY’s Mike Mckinney was asked to give a training or an information session with topic being “what is going on at VY”.
The group was told that the radios may have to be switched to a new frequency soon as the radio bands are stacking.
Annette asked Chris to go to staples with her to get a new easel and post it pads and other supplies. Chris stated she would.
A discussion was had regarding the new EOC building. Annette informed the group that there is no place feasible for it at this time. Annette said she was looking into other options.
The meeting adjourned at 7:05 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted by
Christiane Howe, Secretary
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Accepted as Corrected: ___________
VERNON SELECTBOARD MEETING
October 20, 2008
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Robert Miller Jr Mario Buisa Eleanor Allen
Mike Ball Frank Wetherby Chris Kempf
Michael Courtemanche Sandy Harris Debra Towle
Chris Howe Scott Towle Phyllis Newton
Annette Roydon Marylynn Scherlin David Walker
Seth Deyo Bill Hammond
Patty O’Donnell James Cronan
Bruce Guild
At 6:35 pm Chairman Robert Miller called the meeting to order, after welcoming all those present, asked everyone to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance.
Chairman Miller asked if there was any public comment, there was none.
MINUTE APPROVAL
Chris Howe said that Marylynn Scherlin’s name was inadvertently left off and needs to be added under others present. Cookie Allen asked if we had copies of the minutes and she asked if they were at the Town Clerk’s office. Chris assured her that the minutes were into the Town Clerk within the five days called for by State Statute. Chris also said that there were no extras to pass out and offered Cookie her copy. Chairman Miller said he thought they were good minutes, Annette and Mike C. stated they thought they were exceptionally good minutes. Chris thanked the board.
Mike Courtemanche MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE MINUTES OF OCTOBER 6TH AS CORRECTED. Annette seconded; MOTION CARRIED.
TREASURER
Sally presented the board with the bills and warrants.
Chris Howe MADE THE MOTION TO APPROVE AND SIGN THE FOLLOWING WARRANTS, 10 S/G, 41S, 42S, AND 43S. Annette seconded; MOTION CARRIED.
The board was asked whether or not they wanted to hire a Doctor, so named by the board, to be the first Doctor that an employee would go to when there was a workers’ comp claim. Sally explained that after the first initial assessment the employee could then go to the doctor of their choosing. Chris asked Sally if there were benefits to having a Town Doctor or repercussions if we don’t. Sally explained that a person’s Doctor is on the side of the patient and if the patient wanted to stay out of work a little longer and their Doctor allowed that, it would cost the town in workers’ comp payments. The “towns” chosen Doctor would be for the protection of the town, in that; it would protect the town from something like this happening. Annette expressed her concern with obtaining a Town Doctor. Annette felt that a GP could not take on a specialist and win. Chairman Miller felt it was a good idea because after the first assessment our Doctor would know if someone was trying to get more then was truly needed. Mike Courtemanche asked about the HIPAA law and if the Doctor’s office could release that kind of information the board was told that in workers’ comp cases they could. It was the consensus of the board that Annette will call Darlene Brissette at VLCT to obtain more information on this.
Sally asked the board for the names of the two students who were awarded the Grange Scholarship. Sandy Harris, Town Clerk said she had the names in her office. Sandy said she will get the names to Sally the next day.
Sally presented the board with an invoice from Vermouth Computers for $1,525.00. Sally explained that the computer was only $49.00 over the bid policy amount of $1,000.00. Sally explained that the School will pay for 1/4th of this bill. Chairman Miller said that for $40.00 plus dollars he doesn’t see a problem with this and that we have bypassed the bid process before. Annette said that yes we had, but that doesn’t make it right. Chris Howe felt that the board should waive the bid policy and let Sally buy this computer. Mike Courtemanche stated to make this official he could get two more bids right now, Mike further stated that we would not be able to beat this price.
Chris Howe MADE THE MOTION TO WAIVE THE BID POLICY AND ALLOW SALLY TO BUY THIS COMPUTER FROM VERMOUTH. MOTION FAILED DUE TO LACK OF A SECOND. After much discussion on this, Marylynn Scherlin, School board member, stated that the school was willing to pay the $50.00 that was needed to bring this bill down to an amount not exceeding the bid policy amount. Chris stated that we should change the bid policy amount from $1,000.00 to $2,500.00. The board felt this to be a good idea and Chairman Miller asked that it be put on the next agenda.
Mike Courtemanche MADE THE MOTION TO ALLOW SALLY TO BUY THIS LAPTOP COMPUTER AND GRACIOUSLY EXCEPT THE SCHOOL BOARDS’ OFFER OF THE FIFTY DOLLARS. Annette seconded; MOTION CARRIED.
Sally stated that was all she had. The board thanked Sally.
APPRECIATION – SANDRA HARRIS
Chris Howe MADE THE MOTION TO TAKE SANDY HARRIS OUT OF SEQUENCE AND TAKE HER BEFORE WE TOOK MR. CRONAN. Annette seconded; MOTION CARRIED.
Sandy passed out a copy of her budget to the board. However Chairman Miller told her that he wanted to read something to her. He read: Sandy, we as a board would like to take this time to thank you for all the years that you have been the Board’s Secretary. During your many years of service you have been dedicated and most of the time you have gone above and beyond, you will be sorely missed. We would like to present you with these flowers and this gift certificate which are just small tokens of our gratitude for your service to us and to the Town of Vernon. The board presented Sandy with a basket of flowers and a gift certificate. Applause erupted from the board and the audience. Sandy thanked the board.
SELECTBOARD SECRETARY
Mike Courtemanche told the Chairman that he had two applicants for the selectboard secretary position and that the two of them should meet and do what is needed to get this process moving forward. It was agreed.
JAMES CRONAN – POLICE AUDIT
Mike Courtemanche MADE THE MOTION TO GO INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION WITH JAMES CRONAN ON A PERSONNEL MATTER THE DISCLOSURE OF AT THIS TIME WHICH MIGHT BE DETRIMENTAL TO THE TOWN AND OR THE INDIVIDUALS INVOLVED. Annette Roydon seconded; MOTION CARRIED
Chairman Miller stated that the board came out of executive session at 8:35 and no action had been taken.
Mike Courtemanche MADE THE MOTION TO TAKE A FIVE MINUTE BREAK. Annette seconded. MOTION CARRIED.
HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT – SAND SHARING
David Walker, Road Commissioner presented the board with an update on the sand sharing. David told the board that he did not feel that equipment should be used by some to get truck loads of sand. Mr. Hammond asked the chairman for permission to speak. It was granted. Mr. Hammond passed out a memo to the board which stated the following: In the past, the policy for sand had always been that it was free to town residents. A person took only what they could load by hand in a pickup, car, buckets, etc. for their own use. No tractor with a bucket, or anyone plowing commercially was ever allowed. The reasons for this were liability issues for the town and fairness to the rest of the town so that their tax dollars were not helping to fund part of a private business or for the liability that the town would be incurring. We have already seen a liability risk with a vehicle sticking out onto Route 142. Someone almost hit a tractor that was loading a truck. Hence it is safer to load with a shovel and it is also safer politically when other residents see their tax dollars being spent furnishing sand for commercial use. There are contractors in town who plow and sand, however they provide their own sand. There are places in the area to get sand, such as Lane Construction, Cersosimo Lumber, Zaluzny, Karey Tyler and Carroll Concrete. Thinking of the ethics, the fact that the town employees are using town equipment to fill a commercial vehicle with sand is not fair to other town residents. If the town isn’t careful, there could be 5 – 10 other pickups asking to be filled with sand. This would increase liability and possible damages to vehicles when loading, plus down time for the highway crew. The selectboard should support their highway department in keeping down costs. Loading private pickups is a distraction that the road crew doesn’t need when they are working to keep our roads safe. Respectfully submitted, Bill Hammond
David stated that when VLCT came down to go over some things they were glad to hear that he has sand up top and away from the town sand shed, but when he told them that we also loaded some trucks that plow in town, they asked why would the Town want to take the risk of a Liability concern. Annette stated that she didn’t think the town did. Mike Courtemanche asked if there would still be sand for the residents to get, David answered, yes. David told the board that he was going to build a three sided space with cement blocks that will be faced either North or South to also elevate the problem with vehicles in the road because they would have to come in on the side to load. Scott Towle said that shoveling could be a liability risk as well and stated that if he got hurt shoveling sand into a bucket he would hold the town liable.
Annette Roydon MADE THE MOTION THAT WE PROHIBIT ANYONE FROM USING ANY KIND OF MACHINERY TO LOAD SAND INTO TRUCKS OR TRAILERS AND GO BACK TO THE OLD WAY OF DOING IT, BY SHOVELING SMALL AMOUNTS OF SAND INTO BUCKETS, CARS, AND TRUCKS, FROM THE AREA THAT WILL BE SET UP BY THE HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT. Mike Courtemanche seconded; MOTION CARRIED.
The board thanked David for coming.
ELDERLY ASSISTANCE BOARD – SNOW PLOWING
Marylynn stated to the board that they were happy with Shane Shippee as their plow person and would like to have the bid policy waived. Chris Howe stated that she would like praise Shane Shippee for sanding a couple of people that Chris had called and asked him to do which he did. Marylynn added that Shane did not get paid for that either. Chris also added that Shane did not hesitate to help. Mr. Hammond asked the board to use the voucher system. Mr. Hammond passed out a memo that reads as follows: There has been a problem for people in town who plow, who have a regular snow plowing route. They lose customers to someone hired by the town to plow at a higher rate. Not only do they lose customers, but now they are paying, through their property taxes, for someone else to plow the customers they lost. I do not believe this was the intent of the Elderly Assistance Committee when this service was offered. With a voucher system, a person would have the option of hiring whomever they wanted. Using vouchers would also relieve the town from the liability insurance issue. It would also help in keeping confidentiality. Respectfully submitted, Bill Hammond
Bill Hammond also stated that he doesn’t mind losing a customer, but he doesn’t think it fair that he has to pay, with his tax dollars, someone else to plow that person and for more money.
Chris asked the selectboard if it would be so bad if the town absorbed the Workman’s Comp and general liability Insurance for those working for the Elderly Assistance when doing repairs & maintenance or building ramps and even plowing for the recipients of the Elderly Assistance program. Annette thought that this would be a good thing to ask Sally. Mike Ball thought that maybe since we have gone with PACIF it may different. We should look into this. Marylynn passed out copies of the E.A.B. (Elderly Assistance Board) procedures for assistance which also includes the application for assistance as well as snow removal. Marylynn explained that Shane plows, shovels to curbside and shovels access to fuel tanks. Marylynn expressed again that the members are very happy with Shane and they feel he goes above and beyond. We paid a lot last year but it was a harsh winter. Chris Howe asked how much do they pay for plowing. Marylynn stated that it is $35.00 per driveway for plowing and $15.00 pre for sanding. Annette said that maybe the voucher system should be something we should look into. Marylynn stated that they did have someone else interested in plowing but they didn’t have insurance and refused to get it. Mike Ball said that this may be a moot issue after we talk with PACIF. Mike also said we could go with the voucher system and simply give the money to the people and they pay who they want.
ELDERLY ASSISTANCE BOARD – RECEIPTS
Mike Ball stated that there is no problem with the Elderly Assistance Board doing the work as usual and spending up to the $1,999.99 without board approval. This was never an issue. However, the E.A.B. should find out what supplies are needed, maybe in writing, then a member of the E.A.B would get the price for the supplies needed, maybe by calling the various home centers, then go to Sally with the quote and get a check for the supplies and by going to get them would receive a receipt of the purchase which would then be returned to Sally. Then after receiving a bill for labor from the person or persons doing the project, returning that bill into Sally, get another check and pay them, it’s that simple. This will alleviate Marylynn or the client of having to pay out of pocket for these projects. Scott Towle suggested that the town maybe could get a charge account at one of the home centers, which would be one way of getting the receipts for the supplies needed.
The board thanked Marylynn and the Elderly Assistance Board for coming.
EOC – NEW BUILDING
Patty O’Donnell informed the board that VY had offered to give the Town of Vernon the house on Governor Hunt Road to be used as the new EOC. They will put in new floors and move the house to a location the Town so chooses. The Town would have to pay for the sewer and water hook up as well as the foundation, which could be an expense of approximately $50,000. The EOC is now housed in the basement of the Fire Station. Patty went on to tell the board that the basement room is very small and the air quality is really bad. There is a great need for a new building. The new building will not be much more of an expense then it already incurs from the basement EOC. Chris Howe told of a drill where a representative of the NRC was rating the drill and we had a methane gas leak. It is that bad. Frank Wetherby stated that he was proud to serve on the Emergency Management, but Frank went on to say that there truly is a need for this new building. Frank also stated how small the basement EOC is. Much discussion ensued on how bad a shape the basement EOC is and the need for a new place. The question is, where to put it. It was thought that maybe it could be placed on the land parallel to the Fire Station. A perk test would be needed and there would have to be room for a new septic along with that of the Fire Stations’ and a back up system, which would be 3 systems total. It was first thought that a spot at the recreation department would be good, but for security reasons this spot is no longer considered. Mike Ball felt that we were not utilizing the space we have now; he felt that the EOC could use the basement of the Town Office building. Mike stated that cupboards could be built the radios would be stored and all necessary equipment. Patty stated that could create a problem with the preschool being held here too and most of the time the drills are during the day and that is when children are also in the building. Mike Ball stated that he always felt it should be somewhere else other then the basement of the Fire Station his only concern was with the cost impact to the town. Patty explained that most of the expense that would occur would be taken care of by the Vermont Emergency Management budgets and VY. Chris Kempf brought up the fact that DHART lands right where the new building was suggested to go. Someone from the audience suggested that DHART land in the field across from the Recreation Department if needed because that might be a safer spot for them to land the helicopter. Cookie Allen asked where people would park in case of an emergency. Patty stated they would park where they park now. Nothing would be different, as it would be the same amount of people working at the EOC as always. Cookie asked if it would change because now people could stay there through the night. Patty told her that the only people that would stay for a possible 72 hour period are the same people that are working at the EOC now, no extra people. It would also be more room for equipment and more room for the people that work there. Much more discussion followed.
Chris Howe MADE THE MOTION TO GRACIOUSLY ACCEPT THIS GIFT FROM VY PENDING A SUITABLE LOCATION. Annette seconded. 4 AYES AND 1 NAY MOTION CARRIED.
EOC – SIREN DRILL
Emergency management director, Annette Roydon, announced that on November 1st there will be a three minute siren drill. Do not be alarmed by this, it is just a drill.
RECREATION DEPARTMENT
Seth Deyo stated that the bid process for the Keene Signworks was waived and an amount was set to pay them but the bid did not include installation in their bid because they had no idea how long it was going to take to install it. This $186.00 is the cost of installation. It was the consensus of the board that the explanation was satisfactory and Mike Courtemanche will let Sally know that this bill can be paid.
Seth stated that he would need an executive session on a contractual matter.
Mike Courtemanche MADE THE MOTION TO GO INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION WITH SETH DEYO ON A CONTRACTUAL MATTER, THE DISCLOSURE OF AT THIS TIME WHICH MIGHT BE DETRIMENTAL TO THE TOWN AND OR THE INDIVIDUAL COMPANY INVOLVED. Chris Howe seconded; MOTION CARRIED.
Chairman Miller stated that we came out of executive session at 9:53 and no action was taken.
NEW/UNFINISHED BUSINESS - RECYCLING
Mike Courtemanche passed out a flyer on the recycling. He stated that our efforts to recycle are really beginning to show. For the first three months of this fiscal year we recycled nearly 30 tons as opposed to last year’s 16.17 tons. That is a total of 13.51 more tons of recycled materials. The amount of trash we put on the curbside for the first three months of this fiscal year has also dropped 11.3 tons from the same period last year. We are off to a good start but in order to meet our financial goal of spending $30,000 less on trash pickup we are going to have to work a little harder. We have stretched our allocated funds from February to March and if we keep up the good work and if we recycle more and throw away less we can continue to stretch it a few more months. Mike continued by saying together we can do it Vernon. Mike stated that he put another article in the Vernon Newspaper and that Mario has come up with some great ideas about involving the school children and their parents. We are trying to come up with ways to make more of a difference. Mike said “thank you Vernon and to you as well Mario”. The board thanked Mike and Mario.
NEW/UNFINISHED BUSINESS – LISTERS
Mike Ball read from a memo given him from the Listers office, it reads as follows: Donna Smyth of 336 Tyler Hill RD, Property ID 380700 called on August 12, 2008 with a request for research on the amount of acreage for her property. The Listers have been using 4 acres, but her deed state 3 acres (+/-). We had our map man do a reading on the perimeter and he determined the acreage to be 3 acres. We corrected the land size from 4 to 3 acres which resulted in a change in value from $69,000 to $64,500 which is a difference of $4,500. A corrected bill was issued by the Treasurer. We are asking that you make a motion to accept the correction under Listers Errors and Omissions, Title 32 VSA, § 4261.
Annette Roydon MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE CORRECTION UNDER LISTERS ERRORS AND OMISSIONS, TITLE 32 VSA § 4261. Mike Ball seconded; MOTION CARRIED.
Mike Ball MADE THE MOTION TO ADJOURN AT 10:15 PM. Mike Courtemanche seconded; MOTION CARRIED.
ADJOURNED
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VERNON SELECTBOARD FINANCIAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE
October 14,2008
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Accepted as Corrected: ___________
VERNON PLANNING COMMISSION
October 16, 2008, 1900 hours, Vernon Town Office Building
MBERS PRESENT: Michael Zaluzny, Rory Underwood, Jeff Dunklee, Steve Skibniowsky
MEMBERS ABSENT: Shane Shippee
OTHERS PRESENT: Mike Ball (Town Selectboard Rep.) Dale Merritt
At 1900 hours, Mike Ball called the meeting to order; and explained that he would be temporarily chairing the meeting until a chairman was elected from the membership of the planning commission.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS:
Steve Skibniowsky was nominated and elected to chair the Vernon Planning Commission by unanimous voice vote.
Rory Underwood was nominated and elected as clerk to the Vernon Planning Commission by unanimous voice vote.
REGULAR MEETING SCHEDULE:
The planning commission unanimously approved the regularly scheduled meetings of the Vernon Planning Commission on the third Thursday of each month, at 1830 hours (6:30 PM) at the Vernon Town Office Building.
MINUTE(S) APPROVAL
Minutes from the last meeting of the Planning Commission (September of 2007) were not available for review and approval.
TOPICS OF DISCUSSION:
It was decided that the planning commissioners would review any mail that they had received on this subject prior to taking any action on the impending Act 250 application.
A motion was made by Mike Zaluzny to request the Vernon Board of Selectmen to extend the Town Plan so that there would be no period of time where there was no approved Vernon Town Plan. The motion was seconded by Rory Underwood and during ensuing discussion, a friendly amendment was made to the motion to also see if this was legally possible to do. Additional discussion ensued and finally, the modified motion was passed unanimously.
Discussion of the involvement of interested parties to the town plan revision process followed. Mike Ball suggested that townspeople and town departments be involved in applicable sections of the town plan revision process. An article in the Vernon Town newspaper would be one way to seek public input. Meeting with Town departments for their suggestions was another way to obtain input to the plan revision.
ADJOURNMENT:
Rory Underwood made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 2015 hours. Mike Zaluzny seconded the motion. The motion to adjourn passed unanimously.
ADJOURNED
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Accepted as Corrected: ___________
VERNON SELECTBOARD MEETING
October 6, 2008
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Robert Miller Jr. Faith Jobin Chris Garofolo
Mike Ball Jemez Jobin Mary & Paul Miller
Michael Courtemanche Jeremy Owens Laura Beliveau
Chris Howe Chris Carr Mario Buisa
Annette Roydon William Carr Perly Sparrow
David Walker
At 6:30 PM Chair Robert Miller called the meeting to order; following the Pledge of Allegiance welcomed those present: Chairman Miller asked people to speak up as we had no secretary and were taping the meeting. Chairman Miller also told the audience that Velco would be heard under the miscellaneous part right after the Treasurer.
MINUTE(S) APPROVAL
September 22, 2008
September 29, 2008-Under Job Descriptions it should read that Jim Cronan will provide input to Harry Snyder.
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ACCEPT THE MINUTES AS CORRECTED. Chris Howe seconded. MOTION PASSED.
TREASURER – Bills and Warrants
CHRIS HOWE MADE THE MOTION TO APPROVE AND SIGN THE FOLLOWING BILLS AND WARRANTS: #9SG; #39S; AND #40S. Annette Roydon seconded. MOTION PASSED.
Sally explained that the $186.00 that was an overage on the bill from Keene Sign Works that was under contract is still in dispute. Mike Courtemanche will talk with Seth Deyo about this and try to come to some resolution. Sally also reported that she had received a call from the Frederick Ferra Co. about the pump that was sold to the Recreation Department shortly after the lightening strike at the pool area. According to Seth the pump that was purchased from The Frederick Ferra Co. is not working properly, however when Seth called the company they informed Seth that it wasn’t the pump it was an electric problem. Seth says that it is not electrical that in fact it is the pump and does not want this bill paid until this misunderstanding is dealt with. However, now it has become a communication problem. Discussion followed as to what this was pertaining too and it was a consensus of the board that Mike Ball will take a look at this and talk with Seth Deyo about said bill. Both Mikes’ will report back at the next Selectboard meeting.
Sally also explain that the Elderly Assistance Committee had done a ramp and Marylyn Scherlin had paid up front for the job and wanted to get her money back before the next Selectboard meeting and asked if it was ok with the Board. Annette Roydon asked if Sally had received receipts and Sally said no that she had not.
ANNETTE ROYDON MADE THE MOTION THAT THE REIMBURSEMENTS REQUESTED WERE NOT TO BE PAID UNTIL SALLY RECEIVES A RECEIPT. Mike Ball seconded. MOTION PASSED.
Sally also asked the board if they had made a decision on whether the board was interested in having a specific Doctor that workman’s comp cases would have to go to first. The board had not made that decision nor had it been discussed. It was however; decided that it should be on the next agenda.
Treasurer Brassor also stated that taxes were due on Friday October 10, 2008; the Treasurer’s office will be open 8:00am to 6:00pm. You can also mail your payments up to 9:00pm at the post office she will accept them as long as they have that post mark on them. If you did not get a bill please stop by her office and let her know and she will reissue you one. There has been a least one that did not get a tax bill.
Harry Snyder contacted Sally and he will be coming Wednesday the 15th of October, beginning at 8:00am and an email has been sent to all concerning parties in hopes that every department will sign up and be represented for their job descriptions.
Sally stated that was all that she had. The board thanked Sally.
VELCO
Jeremy Owens passed out some maps. The board introduced themselves as did the representatives of VELCO. Jeremy Owens and Chris Carr explained they were here just to inform the board as to where everything stood at this time and that the substation was going inside the fence of the Vermont Yankee Nuclear Plant. Mr. Owen stated that the project had been slid over 100’ Westward but still within the fence area of the Nuclear Plant. A lot of discussion was on a berm around the parameter of the substation. Most of the existing trees will be removed leaving no buffer to enclose the substation. VELCO has a responsibility to submit esthetic mitigation, which was submitted to the State last Friday. This is not set in stone and they will work with all bordering property owners and the town. Annette Roydon stated that courtesy of our State Representative, Patty O’Donnell, the old plan to place this substation in the middle AG land got moved because the old plan was not a popular decision. Annette thought this sounded like going over old ground. She stated that this is very important to us and that it was already made perfectly clear by last year’s board that it was not ok to use the Miller Farm AG land for any purpose. To say that we are against this would be an understatement and if the Millers are objecting then you should pay attention. Discussion followed on the fact that the structures would be mostly wooden. VELCO rep Chris Carr stated she had met with the Millers and do understand that the Millers do not want vegetation planted on AG land or outside the existing fence. Chris Howe stated that she felt that same way as the Millers’ and also stated that she would not agree with VELCO planting anything on the AG land aforementioned.
The Board thanked the VELCO reps for coming and for their presentation.
GRANGE SCHOLARSHIPS
The board asked Perly Sparrows if he had ever signed or given the ok for these scholarships and he said he had not. Mike Ball read the Grange Scholarship Guidelines from the 2007 Town Report located on page 14 of said Town Report. After reading the guidelines a call was received from Phyllis Newton who said that Sandy Harris, Town Clerk, had changed the guidelines sometime ago however, it was the consensus of the board that the guidelines in the Town Report must be followed. The board at that point named, Marylyn Scherlin, resident, Perly Sparrow, Farmland Committee Chairman, and Annette Roydon, Selectperson, as Grange Scholarship committee and the three went forth and awarded the two applicants each a $500.00 scholarship.
The board thanked the three and thanked Perly for coming.
HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT – David Walker
David presented the board with 3 bids telling the board that this bid is for 2 years and not for one. David stated that if we go with the low bidder there will be a $1,137.60 savings for one year. Lane construction is the lowest bidder picked up. MIKE BALL MADE THE MOTION TO AWARD THE BID TO LANE CONSTRUCTION FOR $5.8620 PER CUBIC YARD PICKED UP FOR 2 YEARS. Mike Courtemanche seconded. MOTION CARRIED.
Mike Courtemanche asked David what the rationale was behind the two years. David explained he just wanted to try it and see if it was going to be cost effective for the town.
Chris Howe asked David if he had enough sand, as last year they opened that up gates and allowed those that plowed for Vernon Residents to fill up their trucks. He said it was ok but that he would like to have this discussed again. He will be put on the next agenda.
David said there will not be a salt shortage this year contrary to what the board may have heard. David stated that where he has the contract the town will get what it is contracted to get, nothing less.
Annette asked David if he had removed the tree that she had called him about. The wood is just laying there because he didn’t know who the tree belonged to but if it is town property then someone can pick it up. Annette is the fence viewer and will therefore find out who owns the property and report back to the board at the next meeting.
The board thanked David for promptly taking care of a couple of things that been asked of him.
Chairman Miller stated that Steve Hardy would not be here tonight and that the board would move on to the next item on the agenda. The chairman then asked the board if they would like to take a break. MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE A MOTION TO TAKE A FIVE MINUTE BREAK. Mike Ball seconded. MOTION CARRIED.
ANNETTE MADE A MOTION TO GO TO NEW/UNFINISHED BUSINESS NOW, THEN BACK TO THE REGULAR AGENDA AFTER. Chris Howe seconded. MOTION CARRIED.
FINANCE ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Marylyn presented the board with a statement of purpose that was addressed to all department heads. In the statement it was stated that the committee will be going over the capital plan and the selectboard budgets, requesting the department heads to meet with the committee. Chris Howe asked if the Finance Advisory Committee was suppose to work on the selectboard budget or just the Capital Plan, Annette thought also that it was just the Capital Plan. Mike Courtemanche thought that the committee would be able to make recommendations to the department heads on ways to save money. Chris stated that because it is so late in the year that our main concern is the Capital Plan and that is what we should ask of the Finance Advisory Committee. It was the consensus of the board that the Finance Advisory Committee would only work on the Capital Plan.
The board thanked Marylyn and the Finance Advisory Committee.
ELDERLY ASSISTANCE
Marylyn stated that snow was coming and asked the board what they wanted to do about the snow plowing, should it be put out to bid. The person that plowed last year received approximately $12,000.00 because of more people that needed plowing and more snow storms then normal. The Elderly Assistance Committee is pleased with the service we have and if put out to bid that the cost might increase significantly. Mike Ball voiced his concern because the board has not received a policy statement for the rules of engagement on what the criteria on how the elderly receive assistance? Marylyn stated that the rules were; they had to be 59 ½ or disabled and lived in Vernon for at least six months and the person had to ask for themselves and not someone asking for them. Annette also said that on the application it very delicately tip toed around someone’s finances. Marylyn stated that it does not and Annette assured Marylyn that she had seen the application and that it does ask. Chairman Miller asked Marylyn to bring the board a copy of the application to the next meeting as this should be continued at the next board meeting. Marylyn again stated that there never has been anything in the guidelines that has ever asked for money. Mike Ball suggested that the Elderly Assistance Committee put their guidelines into the Town Report, that way there would be no question. Much discussion followed; the Elderly Assistance committee was then asked to come to the next meeting to discuss this further.
Chris Howe asked Marylyn if there was another way to pay for these projects without asking the recipient to front the money or her having to pay for it out of her pocket. Marylyn stated she didn’t know how because of the Liability to the town and so they didn’t pay anyone to do the job they just gave them a stipend. Discussion followed and this will be brought to the next meeting as well. Annette also told Marylyn that it was her duty to get receipts for the work done. Marylyn expressed her concern, because in the past they could spend up to $1,900.00 without getting a receipt and why was the board changing it now. Annette said that nothing has changed, as it has always been; you need to get receipts before payment is ever made. Mike Ball asked that the committee put together the process of how you approve someone and the rules of payment and then bring it to the board at the next meeting for approval. Mike Courtemanche explained to Marylyn that in the future she needs to get the amounts on an invoice before starting the project and then go to Sally to get a check. After the job is complete then a receipt of the total cost for supplies should be received and attached that to the invoice without having to wait for the warrants to be approved. Marylyn said she paid for three of them and the board felt that she should not have to do this. Annette stated again that we don’t pay anything without a bill or receipt. This also will be discussed at the next board meeting. Marylyn was told she would be reimbursed as soon as she brought in a bill or a receipt. It was the consensus of the board that nothing is to be paid without a receipt as stated in a previous motion.
The board thanked Marylyn for coming.
Also under new/unfinished business Annette asked the board if they wanted her to put in a box add for the Selectboard Secretary. It was agreed to have Annette do that. Annette stated that she would have it put in Friday’s and Saturday’s issues. The Board thanked Annette for doing this.
Chairman Miller asked for Town Council updates. Chairman Miller said he had spoken to someone at Rich’s old office and Stewart Potter may possibly be taking up municipal law. Mike Ball will ask Rich Carroll, as a citizen of the town, to look at the job description to see what we need. We will put this out for bids as soon as we get an answer, which Mike B. will report back to the board at the next meeting.
Mike Ball had talked with the power company and we are getting the best rate we can right now and we can not do better. The only other way we could save money is to generate our own power.
BUDGETS
Mike Ball stated that a memo should be sent to all the Department Heads stating that because of the collapse of the economy, they will be asked to do their budgets with a 3% over all increase not including fuel expense. It will be up to the Department Heads which line item gets the increase or not. Chris Howe will get a memo out to the Department Heads in the morning. In the memo it will state that they have until noon on November 7th to get their budgets into the Treasurers’ office. Chris will then copy them and deliver them to all board members. They will all be asked to come to the board meeting on November 10th.
UP-DATES
Chris Howe updated the board on the job descriptions stating that Harry Snyder would be doing the job descriptions over in the format we approved. Harry will be sending a quote as to the updating of our personnel policy handbook.
Chris Howe also updated the board on the Pot Luck Appreciation dinner. It will be held at the Vernon Elementary School Cafeteria on January 16, 2009 at 6:00pm. Annette and Mike Courtemanche stated they would help Chris address the invitations. The board thanked Chris.
POLICE DEPARTMENT – DODGE TRUCK
Kevin was asked to come to this meeting but failed to show. The board moved on.
Annette asked whether the letter was sent to Kevin in answer to the letter the board had received from Kevin’s Lawyer. It will be sent on Tuesdays or Wednesday.
Annette thanked Chris for the cheat sheet. This was the first time without a board secretary and we all did a good job.
MIKE COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ADJOURN AT 8:35 PM. Annette Roydon seconded.
MOTION PASSED.
ADJOURNED
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Accepted as Printed: _____________
Accepted as Corrected: ___________
VERNON SPECIAL SELECTBOARD MEETING
September 29, 2008
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Robert Miller Jr. Eleanor Allen
Christiane Howe
Michael Courtemanche
Michael Ball
MEMBERS ABSENT:
Annette Roydon
Chairman Miller called the meeting to order, welcomed those present, and led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag.
PUBLIC COMMENT
No public comment was forthcoming.
JOB DESCRIPTIONS
Chris Howe presented the job description for the Selectboard Secretary as reviewed by Harry Snyder. Discussion followed. The consensus of the Board was to include the updated job description for this position as a flier in the next issue of the Town’s newspaper.
Discussion on background checks was held with a teleconference with Mr. Snyder.
After much discussion Christiane Howe was asked to get a quote from Mr. Snyder on updating the current Personnel Policy, and to stipulate the appropriate background checks for the different positions.
Mr. Cronan will present the updated Police portion for that Policy.
NEW/UNFINISHED BUSINESS
New and unfinished business included the following:
ADJOURNMENT
CHRIS HOWE MADE THE MOTION TO ADJOURN. Mike Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
The meeting adjourned at 7:54 P.M.
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Accepted as Printed: _____________
Accepted as Corrected: ___________
VERNON BOARD OF CIVIL AUTHORITY MEETING
September 24, 2008
MEMBERS PRESENT: MEMBERS ABSENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Timothy Arsenault Patricia O’Donnel Karey Tyler 6:55
Susan Arsenault Robert Miller Jr. Jeffrey Morse 6:55
Michael Courtemanche Annette Roydon
Christiane Howe Ed Sprague
Deborah Hebert Peter Crossmon
Michael Ball
Lynda Starorypinski
Sandra Harris
Chairman Timothy Arsenault called the meeting to order at 6:01 P.M. and the process of tax appeals was reviewed utilizing the handouts from VLCT’s workshop on Tax Appeals held in April.
With the Board of Listers unable to attend this meeting due to scheduling conflicts SANDRA HARRIS MADE THE MOTION TO RECESS THE TAX APPEAL HEARINGS UNTIL THE FOLLOWING DATES:
Deb Hebert seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
The meeting was recessed at 6:40 and reconvened at 6:55 P.M. when Jeffrey Morse and Karey Tyler were advised of the action taken in re-scheduling the appeals. Attorney Morse informed the Board that Cersosimo Industries Inc. was withdrawing their appeal on Parcel # 3702000.
DEB HEBERT MADE THE MOTION TO RECESS UNTIL OCTOBER 8TH AT 6:00 P.M.. Sandra Harris seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
The meeting recessed at 7:15 P.M.
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Accepted as Printed: _____________
Accepted as Corrected: ___________
VERNON SPECIAL SELECTBOARD MEETING
September 22, 2008
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Robert Miller Jr. Chris Garaflo
Christiane Howe Frank Wetherby
Michael Courtemanche Mario Buisa
Annette Roydon Bruce Gauld 6:55
Michael Ball James Cronan 7:40
Steve Hardy 7:55
Chairman Miller called the meeting to order at 6:35 P.M. welcomed those present, and led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag.
PUBLIC COMMENT
No comments were forthcoming.
MINUTE APPROVAL
Tabled until next meeting.
DAVID WALKER/SAFETY COMMITTEE
Tabled.
TOWN BUS POLICY
Chairman Miller expressed his desire to appoint a committee to go over the Town Bus Policy with a couple residents from town, two seniors, and the liaisons from the Selectboard. Discussion followed.
A flier will be sent in the Town’s Newspaper asking for volunteers.
RESCUE INC – FRANK WETHERBY
Frank Wetherby thanked the Board for having him at their meeting and reviewed the Consortium that Vernon had hosted for Vernon last year. As a result of that meeting Rescue has made measurable and steady progress since that date, changes which Frank brought to the Board’s attention.
MICHAEL COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION THE BOARD TAKE A 10-MINUTE OR SO BREAK. Annette Roydon seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
Chairman Miller called the meeting back in order at 7:29.
RESCUE INC – CONTINUED
LETTER
After discussion CHRIS HOWE MADE THE MOTION TO ALLOW CHAIRMAN ROBERT MILLER TO SIGN THE LETTER SUPPORTING RESCUE’S LOAN APPLICATION. Annette Roydon seconded the motion. Mike Ball asked that in the future rules and/or background information be provided to the Board prior to the Board signing any document. THE MOTION CARRIED.
TOWN FOREST UPDATE
Annette reported that she has spoken with Steve Hardy and he will be here tonight but since he was not yet here ANNETTE MADE THE MOTION TO POSTPONE HIS TIME SLOT AND GO ON TO THE APPRECIATION PICNIC/POTLUCK DINNER. Michael Courtemanche seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
APPRECIATION PICNIC/POTLUCK DINNER
Chris Howe stated that she didn’t mind heading up a potluck dinner that will be held in place of the Appreciation Picnic, showing the employees and volunteers their support. Chris would like to suggest to have it at the school. Mike Courtemanche also offered his assistance since both have an in at the school. The tentative date is January 16th with a start time of 6:00 P.M.
BOARD SECRETARY – TOWN ATTORNEY – SEARCH
TOWN ATTORNEY SEARCH
Mike Courtemanche reported on the calls he had made to neighboring towns regarding who they utilized for their towns’ attorneys. After much discussion the consensus of the Board was to have Michael Ball contact VLCT for a sample RFQ and for Chairman Miller to touch base with Selectman Ball regarding the same.
BOARD SECRETARY
No one has contacted any Board member regarding this position. Discussion on a box ad in the Reformer and/or a flier in the Town’s Newspaper followed. The Board will meet with Mr. Snyder on Monday, September 29th at 6:00 P.M. with the flier and/or box ad to follow.
TOWN FOREST
Town Forester Steve Hardy met with the Board regarding the status of the wood in the Town Forest. At this time pulp wood has more value than board wood.
Discussion on the woodlots followed. Mr. Hardy will get together with the Town Clerk to review the previous lots and process followed with hopes to have the woodlots marked out by the end of October.
GATE
Discussion followed regarding the status of the gate at the Town Forest with the consensus to have it locked at night and unlocked in the mornings by the Police Department, but no formal decision was reached at this meeting.
JAMES CRONAN
MICHAEL BALL MADE THE MOTION FOR THE BOARD TO GO INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION ON A PERSONNEL MATTER/ THE PROCESS OF THE POLICE AUDIT, THE DISCLOSURE OF AT THIS TIME WHICH MIGHT BE DETRIMENTAL TO THE TOWN AND/OR INDIVIDUAL(S) INVOLVED. Annette Roydon seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED. The executive session lasted from 8:22 to 9:19 when Chairman Miller stated that no action had been taken.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
ENTERGY LETTER
A letter was received from Entergy Vermont Yankee asking the Board if the March 13, 2000 letter granting permission to utilize the Town Office facilities for personnel if there was a remote possibility of an accident at the plant was still in effect. CHRIS HOWE MADE THE MOTION THAT THE BOARD RE-AFFIRM THE LETTER TO VERMONT YANKEE. Mike Ball seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
CELL TOWER
A letter was received from Murphy Sullivan Kronk regarding the Vernon Telecommunication Towers and the problems with the “Vernon West” tower which is unable to be activated because telephone service is not yet available from Fairpoint. MSK is proposing the installation of a temporary microwave hop to activate the Vernon South site to the Vernon West site. After discussion ANNETTE ROYDON MADE THE MOTION TO ENCOURAGE MSK TO GO AHEAD WITH THE MICROWAVE HOP. Chris Howe seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
WATER CONSERVATION
Chris Howe informed the Board of the Gassett families’ willingness to head up a committee on water conservation/protection. Chris will have them contact the Planning Commission.
MEDIA
No media present for question or comments at the end of the meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
MICHAEL COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO ADJOURN. Chris Howe seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
The meeting adjourned at 9:32 P.M.
The next meeting of the Board will be a Special Meeting on September 29th.
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Accepted as Printed: _____________
Accepted as Corrected: ___________
VERNON SELECTBOARD MEETING
September 16, 2008
Minutes written from DVD and notes of Chris Howe’s
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Robert Miller Jr. Cam Nesbitt Sally Brassor
Christiane Howe Walter Zaluzny David Andrews
Michael Courtemanche Eleanor Allen Mario Buisa
Annette Roydon Linda Shippee Seth Deyo
Marylynn Scherlin Deyo
MEMBERS ABSENT:
Michael Ball
Chairman Miller called the meeting to order, welcomed those present, and led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag.
PUBLIC COMMENT
David Andrews asked for clarification on the budget process for the Fire Department. The Board has asked for items for the Selectboard Budget to be presented in October. Capital items will go before the Finance Committee which will begin meeting as of September 17th.
MINUTE APPROVAL
AUGUST 18, 2008
Under the “Police Department” Chris Howe did say what was reported, but she also stated that she didn’t approve of Mr. Hendricks meeting with the Board without Chief Turnley being present. MICHAEL COURTEMANCHE MADE THE MOTION TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF AUGUST 18TH WITH THE AMENDMENT PRESENTED BY CHRIS HOWE. Chris Howe seconded the motion. THE MOTION CARRIED.
SEPTEMBER 8, 2008
ANNETTE ROYDON MADE THE MOTION TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL SE