Minutes
Board of Selectmen Meeting
Tuesday, May 10, 2005, 5:00 p.m.
Town Hall Hearing Room and Selectmen’s Office
PRESENT:
Appointments:
Building Commissioner Interviews
Donald Anderson of the Planning Board and Daniel Burack of the Board of Public Works were also present for the Building Inspector Interviews. The format of the interviews allowed for each Interviewer to ask each candidate one pre-designated question each, with follow-up questions as appropriate. Candidates were also given the opportunity to give a wrap-up statement after questioning. The questions, and who asked them, were as follows:
Question One: (D.
The Planning Board uses zoning as a key to the integrity to the towns zoning bylaws. If there is no enforcement, then the work of the Planning Board is useless. How would you enforce the zoning bylaws to maintain that integrity with the public, and to foster such a relationship?
Question Two: (D. Burack)
Mrs. Smith comes in looking for help with her $10,000 sunroom. Hasbro comes in with a $10,000,000 proposal. How would you allocate your time to each project?
Question Three: (J. Driscoll)
Question Four: (J. Claffey)
What tools do you have personally to do this job?
Question Five: (G. DeLisle)
Zoning enforcement is a major function of this position. The Town recognizes that there needs to be more of an effort placed on this function. How would you deal with zoning enforcement given that things that things have not been kept up to date?
5:00pm - Daniel E. Hellyer
Question One: (D.
The Planning Board uses zoning as a key to the integrity to the towns zoning bylaws. If there is no enforcement, then the work of the Planning Board is useless. How would you enforce the zoning bylaws to maintain that integrity with the public, and to foster such a relationship?
(BOS Meeting,
05/10/05, continued)
Building Commissioner Interviews
A: A big part of Building Inspector (BI) job is to enforce zoning. It is really important that BI is open to the public since there may be issues that need to be resolved. The BI may have to help with an appeal process, and in working with Planning Board it is important that there is open communication. I’m open at any time to work to improve the zoning bylaws.
Question Two: (D. Burack)
Mrs. Smith comes in looking for help with her $10,000 sunroom. Hasbro comes in with a $10,000,000 proposal. How would you allocate your time to each project?
A: If Mrs. Smith is not sure of what to do I would sit down and look at what district she’s in to determine if she can put it on that lot. I’d consider wetlands, etc; and guide her through the whole process. Hasbro’s proposal….I’ve studied architecture and engineering and they (plans) are not always right. The BI must review plans and see what’s right; deal with wetlands, EPA, regulations, codes (etc.)
Question Three: (J. Driscoll)
A. Growth is good, but we need to look at the whole plan and how its fits in the Town.
Question Four: (J. Claffey)
What tools do you have personally to do this job?
A. I have a computer, and am computer literate. I have 30 yrs. In the construction industry. BI’s are a close group, I can draw on them for resources.
Question Five: (G. DeLisle)
Zoning enforcement is a major function of this position. The Town recognizes that there needs to be more of an effort placed on this function. How would you deal with zoning enforcement given that things that things have not been kept up to date?
A. I would deal with the public diplomatically. There will be issues with blatant disregard for zoning and the BI has to deal with it; sometimes even in a legal fashion.
Q6: D.
A. I was grandfathered at first. It is too late to renew so I took the test. I know being grandfathered is not good enough. I passed the test in 2000.
Q7 J. Driscoll: If offered this position will you take it?
A. Yes. There is no lead time frame needed.
Q8 J. Driscoll: Are there any conflicts of interest?
A. No. No side jobs.
Q9: J. Claffey: Licensing for Commissioner?
A. Not entirely familiar with the process. I know the state allows for 18 months to get it. I will get it within that time frame.
(BOS Meeting,
05/10/05, continued)
Building Commissioner Interviews
D. Hellyer: Wrap up: I’ve been a resident for approx 20-21 years. My wife works for School Department. I live on Hanward Hill. I have an extensive background in construction. I believe that communications are important in any job; that I have to be able to relate to the public. I know there will be problems with homeowners not happy with contractors. I am OSHA 10-hour course certified. Public Safety is a big part of this job. This job is not just an 8-4 job. I am more than willing to meet with any homeowner or Planning Board or Selectmen. There is a solution to any problem even if it is not always the one people want.
5:30pm - Bruce Fenney
Question One: (D.
The Planning Board uses zoning as a key to the integrity to the towns zoning bylaws. If there is no enforcement, then the work of the Planning Board is useless. How would you enforce the zoning bylaws to maintain that integrity with the public, and to foster such a relationship?
A: I would first check with GL for building requirements; then ask the Planning Board for advice. I am more than willing to meet with the Planning Board at night.
Question Two: (D. Burack)
Mrs. Smith comes in looking for help with her $10,000 sunroom. Hasbro comes in with a $10,000,000 proposal. How would you allocate your time to each project?
A: I would work with them equally on a first come-first-served basis.
Question Three: (J. Driscoll)
A: Only so much land is put aside for conservation; most of the town is developed; everybody would like to see more land put aside; but if people will build that’s OK.
Question Four: (J. Claffey)
What tools do you have personally to do this job?
A: I know the Code book; general knowledge; personal contacts.
Question Five: (G. DeLisle)
Zoning enforcement is a major function of this position. The Town recognizes that there needs to be more of an effort placed on this function. How would you deal with zoning enforcement given that things that things that have not been kept up to date?
A. Zoning means certain things can be built in certain areas of Town; some people will go to Town meeting to try to get changes in zoning. I will deal with issues on a one-on-one basis, but if it falls on deaf ears we’ll deal with it as it comes.
Q6: D.
A: I got it at STCC about 5 years ago. I’ve been in the building industry my whole life and am familiar with the laws.
Q7: J. Claffey: Are you aware of the state building licenses?
More than willing to obtain licensing
(BOS Meeting,
05/10/05, continued)
Building Commissioner Interviews
Q8: J. Claffey: Are you familiar with computers?
A: Yes; Excel, Word, etc.
Q9: J. Driscoll: Are you involved with anything that would present a conflict?
A: No, work is first. I do build furniture for customers. It wouldn’t interfere. I do some remodeling work when things it gets slow.
Q10: G. DeLisle: If offered the position, will you take it?
A: Yes.
B. Fenney: Wrap-up: I am a hard worker; I have a strong work ethic; I aggressively pursue my goals; I enjoy a challenge. I would like the job
6:00pm - Robert A. Morra
Question One: (D.
The Planning Board uses zoning as a key to the integrity to the towns zoning bylaws. If there is no enforcement, then the work of the Planning Board is useless. How would you enforce the zoning bylaws to maintain that integrity with the public, and to foster such a relationship?
A: The relationship is very important. I currently work in a town with 26 zoning districts. It is important for consistency.
Question Two: (D. Burack)
Mrs. Smith comes in looking for help with her $10,000 sunroom. Hasbro comes in with a $10,000,000 proposal. How would you allocate your time to each project?
A: All projects are equally as important. It is very important for the BI to be there to answer questions; hold office hours; take each person through the process; the mission is to ensure public safety.
Question Three: (J. Driscoll)
A: It’s a hot topic in Belchertown right now. I’m not in favor of limiting permits. I’d rather have reform to current laws; e.g. make lot sizes bigger,
Question Four: (J. Claffey)
What tools do you have personally to do this job?
A: Understanding of the build code is essential. I would get answers to public in reasonable amount of time; organization.
Question Five: (G. DeLisle)
Zoning enforcement is a major function of this position. The Town recognizes that there needs to be more of an effort placed on this function. How would you deal with zoning enforcement given that things that things have not been kept up to date?
A: It’s a tough situation because you come into a situation where you want to keep some consistency, but also want to keep the code.
(BOS Meeting,
05/10/05, continued)
Building Commissioner Interviews
Q6: D.
A: Yes, I took the exams in early 2003.
Q7: J. Claffey: Computer experience?
A: Word/Excel/basic Access.
Q9: J. Driscoll: Are you involved with anything that would present a conflict?
A: I am finishing projects in Belchertown.
Q10: G. DeLisle: If offered the position, will you take it?
A: If offered, yes.
R. Morra: Wrap-up:
A: I have experience at the Franklin Co. Redevelopment Authority overseeing projects by HUD and with CDBG. I’ve done a wide variety of projects. I am familiar with handicapped accessibility; reading topography; site plans. I have an understanding of all components in the ground and above the ground; and have been through procurement for design projects.
6:30pm - Brien E. Laporte
B. Laporte presented the BOS with additional credentials.
Question One: (D.
The Planning Board uses zoning as a key to the integrity to the towns zoning bylaws. If there is no enforcement, then the work of the Planning Board is useless. How would you enforce the zoning bylaws to maintain that integrity with the public, and to foster such a relationship?
A: In the past, my relationship with all planning boards has been excellent. I’m good at enforcement. It is over 50% of a Commissioner’s job. I like to work with the Planning Board rather than against them. Everybody would work together.
Question Two: (D. Burack)
Mrs. Smith comes in looking for help with her $10,000 sunroom. Hasbro comes in with a $10,000,000 proposal. How would you allocate your time to each project?
A: The first on through the door gets the first attention. I’m not going to put somebody off because there is a big fish on the way. In my opinion I would do the sun room first.
Question Three: (J. Driscoll)
A: I like growth. I’ve always tried to promote it. The town I’m in now has a moratorium. I would try to get state lots back. I’m trying to resurrect the flag lot/estate lots procedures.
Question Four: (J. Claffey)
What tools do you have personally to do this job?
(BOS Meeting,
05/10/05, continued)
Building Commissioner Interviews
A: I’m computer smart. I’ve developed a lot of forms over the years that work for me; more information on a smaller package; a secretary can be helpful when you’re out there.
Question Five: (G. DeLisle)
Zoning enforcement is a major function of this position. The Town recognizes that there needs to be more of an effort placed on this function. How would you deal with zoning enforcement given that things that things have not been kept up to date?
A: To me if your BI is from out of town its easier to get things done; take the politics out of it. I’ve never had to take anyone to court. Zoning is first, then planning, Zoning Board of Appeals. Then the building permit can come in; keep taxpayer in mind first.
Q6: D.
A: Every BI has to complete 45 CEU’s in a three year cycle; the CEU’s are not a problem for me; I usually go over.
Q7: D. Burack: On resume it says “BI/Zoning Official for
Deerfield,” and “Local Inspector for
A: I’m the Local Inspector in
Q8: J. Driscoll: Why would you leave in
A: I’d like something with a little more challenge.
Q9: J. Claffey: Do you have additional personal/professional endeavors?
A: I teach on Tuesdays and WNEC on Thursday. I teach the construction supervisors course.
Q10: G. DeLisle: Would you take the job if offered?
A: I would hope so.
B. Laporte: Wrap-up:
A: All my family is western Mass; I’ve been here 42 years; 7 grandchildren; college educated and paid for; not leaving anytime soon; I like to boat, fish, collect stamps, get a stamp club going; carpentry in workshop in basement; etc.
To me zoning is a very large part of a BI’s job; I love it; I understand blueprints, been dealing with them for years.
Interviews concluded at 6:37 p.m.
Motion At this time, G. DeLisle moved the BOS, D. Burack and D. Anderson enter into Executive Session to discuss personnel matters relating to the hiring of a Building Commissioner/Zoning Enforcement Officer for the Town, to return to Open Session. Motion seconded by J. Driscoll.
Motion approved by unanimous roll-call vote.
(BOS Meeting,
05/10/05, continued)
Public Forum
7:15pm - Public Forum
Attorney James Martin: Robinson, Donovan.
Atty. Martin presents a petition to the BoS for a special Town meeting to approve a new Zone for a Planned Adult Residential District. J. Martin said they’ve been working for a year or so with Planning Board for a specific overlay district; started with PURD—Planned Unit Development; J. Martin gave an overview of the past year.
J. Driscoll asked if the proposal is site specific? J. Martin said, “No, you would have the specific property rezoned to the site. It would require a 2/3 vote.
A general discussion of rules for the Article and setting of
the date for a
Motion J. Driscoll moved the BOS set a date for a Special Town Meeting, pending signature verifications by the Town Clerk. G. DeLisle added to set the Meeting for 6/13 at 7pm.
Motion approved unanimously.
Action: N. Breault to give petition to Town Clerk.
7:30pm – James Sheils, Town Moderator:
J. Claffey spoke on behalf of the BOS to express gratitude with J. Sheils efforts with the way the Annual Town Meeting was run; that the preparation for the Meeting was shown.
J. Sheils said all the work of the other committees is appreciated and the credit needs to be spread out to the other boards and commissions.
A discussion of the creation of a Town Meeting Rules Committee ensued. J. Sheils recounted the Charter Commission recommended the establishment of a committee to study Town Meeting procedures; to look at how we conduct our business. As a member of the MA Moderators and a member of the listserv he sees a lot of information; there are opportunities to make the process move more efficiently; many other towns our size have representative town govt.; some of the information out there could help keep our town meeting from becoming unwieldy; wants the BoS to consider establishing the Committee.
J. Claffey stated that he thinks the idea is a good one; 5 members is probably a good suggestion; Town Moderator should serve as one member; G. DeLisle suggested the Town Clerk act as ex officio; J. Driscoll said Chair of Charter review committee should be invited as well as the former Moderator.
G. DeLisle suggested 8 total members; the Town Moderator plus six and Clerk as ex-oficio.
Motion G. DeLisle moved the BOS take the recommendation of J. Sheils and establish a Town Meeting Rules Committee. J. Driscoll seconded.
Motion approved unanimously.
Action: N. Breault to send out press release asking for volunteers for the Committee, with responses by June 6, 2005.
(BOS Meeting,
05/10/05, continued)
Town Counsel
TOWN COUNSEL
At this time, the BOS met with Town Counsel. The meeting with Town Counsel began in Open Session, then moved to Executive Session with Town Counsel, and then continued in Open Session following the completion of business with Town Counsel.
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
OLD BUSINESS:
NEW BUSINESS:
1. Request, Milton Bradley Employee Association, one-day liquor license and temporary food
service, Saturday, June 11 from 11-4.
Motion G. DeLisle moved the BOS approve the request. J. Driscoll seconded. Motion approved unanimously.
2. Request, Letter to Tighe & Bond to send e-mail. No action.
3. Public Safety Advisory Committee (J. Claffey)
The BOS discussed the creation of a Public Safety Advisory Committee to study and make recommendations to the BOS regarding public safety issues; e.g. ambulance service, Fire Department, Police Department. J. Claffey asked if there should be one public safety advisory committee or one for each department.
Motion G. DeLisle moved the BOS appoint a Public Safety Advisory Committee. J. Driscoll seconded.
Discussion: J. Driscoll adds that the BOS members act as liaisons to the Committee and not as Chair; to let the Committee appoint a Chair.
Motion approved unanimously.
Action: N. Breault to issue press release asking for volunteers for the Public Safety Advisory Committee.
4. COA Violations *: Tabled. J. Claffey to discuss with R. Clark.
5.
Discussion, Agenda Regional Selectmen Meeting 6-16-05 *
Action: N. Breault to send out memo to other towns for agenda items.
6.
East Longmeadow
Motion J. Driscoll moves the BOS approve the request pending DPW, Health, Fire and Police recommendations. G. DeLisle seconded. Motion approved unanimously.
7.
Approval for “Caution Children” signs Jennifer Lane–Police Department
recommendations *
J. Claffey reviewed the Police Department reports. J. Driscoll said it’s a cul-de-sac. J. Claffey stated he is not inclined to approve the request.
Motion G. DeLisle moved the BOS approve the request. Motion not seconded. No action.
(BOS Meeting,
05/10/05, continued)
Board of Health
BOARD OF HEALTH:
OLD BUSINESS
1. Feline By-laws:
J. Driscoll
suggested bringing a proposal to address the need for regulations for cats to
2.
Action: N. Breault to ask F. Kowal to advise BoH in 60 days.
3. Medicare Part D: So noted.
4. Correspondence from Sarah McColgan, Tobacco Compliance Coordinator, Re: Emporium Complaint. *
Action: N. Breault to forward to Town Counsel for review and recommendations on 5/17/05.
NEW BUSINESS
1. Complaint letter from Ron Cutler:
Action:
2 Approval, Massage Therapist: *
a) Reggie St. Pierre,
b) Aimee
Couombe,
Motion G. DeLisle moved the BOS approve both requests. J. Driscoll seconded. Motion approved unanimously.
3. E-mail from Karen Bouquillon, re: Household Hazardous Waste Collection Update *: So noted.
CORRESPONDENCE:
1. Letter from James Connor, Chairman Charter Commission: So noted.
Action: BOS to send letters to the charter commission thanking them.
2.
3. Letter from MIIA, Re: upcoming changes in contract for July 1, 2005:
Action: N. Breault to track changes.
4. Letter from Susan Rossi-Bihler:
Action: N. Breault to give note to J. Burke and relate that the BOS appreciates her hard work.
5. Letter from Jon Jay Associates, TALX Acquisition: So noted.
6. Letter from Noel P. Pixley, Principal Thornton W. Burgess Middle School, Hampden. So noted. Action: N. Breault to pass letter on to Chief with thanks from the BOS.
(BOS Meeting,
05/10/05, continued)
Correspondence
7. Letter from Mary Rogeness, re: Increase Chapter 70 (school) aid *: So noted.
8. E-mail “Website Volunteer”: The BOS considers an offer from a resident to offer assistance with the Town website for a modest stipend.
J. Driscoll suggested he come in to meet with the BOS; he noted that our website is embarrassing.
Action: N. Breault to write back to the resident saying “Thank you, and he should expect a call from J. Somsen.” N. Breault to pass along to John Somsen.
9. Approval, various draft letters (NB) *: So noted.
10. Correspondence from Rec. Commission, Re: Proposed Community Center-Pine Knoll *: So noted.
MEETINGS, INVITATIONS & REMINDERS: All items noted by BOS.
1.
2. Housing Partnership Committee, Thursday 5-12-05 @ 7pm
3. Seminar Identity
Theft, sponsored by the Small Business Administration 5-18-05,
4. Community Health
Connection, Thursday, 5-12-05, 1-3pm,
5 Public Hearing notice Bay State Gas, Wed., 5-25-05, Town of Ludlow,Re;base rate changes *
6. Municipal Recycling Meeting, 5-24-05, Chicopee DPW, N. Breault attending *
Action: N. Breault to notify SWAT Members.
7. Municipal
Recycling Facility press event, Wed. 5-11-05, MRF on
Motion At this time, G. DeLisle moved the BOS adjourn. J. Driscoll seconded. Motion approved unanimously.
Meeting adjourned at 9:05 p.m.
APPROVED: BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING, TUESDAY, JULY 12,
2005.