May 3, 2010
In attendance: John Halter, Sandra Holland, Arnold Stymest, Jim Coffey, Richard Briere, Carol Briere, Ken Hill, Harry Power, John Baybutt, Tom Newcombe, Buzz McLaughlin, Alfrieda Englund and Angel Nicoletti.
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Halter at 7:00 p.m., and opened with the pledge of allegiance.
Chairman Halter, seconded by Selectman Holland, moved to transfer $125,000 from the investment account to the General Fund checking account. Motion passed 3-0.
APPOINTMENTS:
7:00 P.M. John Baybutt and Tom Newcombe representing the Granite Lake Association met to bring the Selectmen up to date on the Granite Lake Watershed Plan. Mr. Baybutt explained that with the help of a grant through DES, they are using a consultant to do a water quality study and GPS mapping of the watershed and the lake. Mr. Newcombe then explained that the consultant being used is AECOM. He went on to describe how they are working with DES and the setting of goals to determine what is wanted for the lake. This relates primarily to nutrient loading which causes algae. The primary nutrient being phosphorus. Mr. Newcombe then continued to explain that they were here to ask the stakeholders, both towns and both conservation commissions, to come together in support of the study. He described the need for agreement on the setting of goals for the lake. The outcomes to be considered are, to maintain the status quo, allow for some future degradation, or to achieve a slight improvement over time.
Chairman Halter commented on the group's work with DES. It was determined that the study group had decided that they did not want the phosphorus levels to get any higher in the lake. Previous problems and material on the floor of the lake was also discussed. It was stated that the DES contact, Andrew Chapman, will provide a Best Management Practices (BMP) for road and drainage work. Chairman Halter asked about these practices being defined [by DES] and Mr. Newcombe said yes. He then went on to explain more about some of the run off issues and the man made versus natural nutrient loading.
It was then suggested that the town of Stoddard ”buy” into the project as a stakeholder. This could be done by a letter of support and a copy of the minutes to DES in Concord. Selectman Stymest asked about Nelson. It was stated that Nelson had bought into support of the project and had a conservation commission member and a selectman attend a meeting with DES in December 2009.
Chairman Halter stated that being an officer in the District [Granite lake Village District] made him aware of the testing and the use of a dish that is lowered into the lake to take readings. The practice is known as SECCI testing.
At the conclusion of the presentation Selectman Stymest expressed support for the project and Selectman Holland stated that it was a good presentation and added understanding.
Mr. Briere asked what was Stoddard being asked to buy into. Mr. Newcombe explained that there was no financial commitment being asked for. Mr. Briere then mentioned other lakes and Mr. Newcombe explained that there will be a chapter of general recommendations. A discussion followed about the application of the information to other lakes, including ways to reduce phosphate loading. At the conclusion of the discussion Chairman Halter, seconded by Selectman Holland moved to endorse the plan. The motion was approved 3-0. A copy of the minutes along with a cover letter will be sent.
7:40 P.M. Brian Pratt, accompanied by his son Riley, met to discuss opening a fireworks retail store. Mr. Pratt explained that he had spoken with the Fire Chief and that there were no problems, but the State Fire Marshall has other requirements. Selectman Holland asked questions concerning the distance to other structures and type of construction. Mr. Pratt talked about the building having a fire suppression system and that it would be 2 x 6 construction. Mr. Pratt also explained that the Fire Marshall does not want to come out unless he has all necessary Town approvals. Compliance Officer Harry Power explained the need for all State permits and ZBA approval. He went on to mention that the ZBA could approve something subject to State approval. Angel Nicoletti asked where this was going to be. Mr. Pratt stated that the proposed location is Anytime Auto. The discussion ended at 7:50 P.M., with Mr. Pratt to see Patricia Putnam for a ZBA application.
7:50 P.M. Open Discussion. Mr. Ken Hill asked about removing the sand on the grass at a low point on Kings Highway. Jim Coffey will contact and David Vaillancourt.
Mr. Hill then brought up the subject of charging for certain types of waste, such as appliances and other special objects. Selectman Holland suggested that it would be good to bring up with the new contract. A discussion on recycling followed. At the end of the discussion Chairman Halter mentioned that there will be a reduction in solid waste expenses, but we will not know the exact amount by the Annual Town Meeting. He stated that the article can be amended. [to a lower number] A reduction of nearly $30,000 annually is expected.
Carol Briere then brought up the sand on the lawn at the Town Hall and it was agreed to have David Young do the work. Selectman Holland emphasized that the work must be done by David and that we cannot employ his children.
Dick Briere then addressed Mr. Stymest’s previous suggestion that the Gould House be used for meetings. He explained that the building does not at this time meet the necessary building or accessibility codes for public use. Chairman Halter stated that he appreciated Mr. Briere's concern. Mr. Briere stated that the reason should be in the minutes. Selectman Holland and Chairman Halter agreed.
Mr. Saleski asked about installing the screens used in the summer for venting the lower part of the building. Chairman Halter stated that this was an excellent idea and any costs can be reimbursed. Mr. Saleski will look into it.
Selectman Halter asked that a copy of the previous minutes be sent to Mr. Jack Marren since he was mentioned in them.
At 9:05 P.M., Chairman Halter, seconded by Selectman Holland moved to adjourn. Motion was approved 3-0.
APPROVED/SIGNED:
1. Accounts Payable and Payroll Manifests
2. Minutes of April 26, 2010
3. Minutes of April 28, 2010
B. NEW BUSINESS:
Selectman Holland suggested that the CIP be let go. Procedures for abolishing it were discussed. It was determined that the CIP committee was appointed by the Planning Board and presently has no legitimate members, Mr. McMahon's term having expired. Selectman Stymest stated he was not in favor of keeping it and that some meetings were held in the Mill Village Store. It was agreed that the present document (CIP Plan) has no current value.
OLD BUSINESS
- Discuss with Interim Administrator Transfer Station Bids:
Board decided to meet in public session on Thursday, May 27 with Waste Management, Corcoran, and Recycling Services, Inc.
- Prepare letter to be sent to Attorney Beth Fernald. Re: Skidmore Complaint:
This will be discussed at the next meeting.
- Letter from Silas Little to Ruth Ward:
Letter was read with no action taken, or necessary.
Respectfully submitted,
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James Coffey, Interim Administrator
Approved
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John D. Halter, Chairman Sandra L. Holland Arnold Stymest
Board of Selectmen