MINUTES
BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING
Tuesday, August 15, 2006, at 5:30P.P.M.
Town Hall Hearing
Room,
PRESENT: James Driscoll, Chairman; Gary DeLisle, Chairman Board of Health; Joe Townshend, Clerk of the Board. Chairman Board of Selectmen opened meeting at 5:30P.M.with the Pledge of Allegiance.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
G. DeLisle made motion to approve the minutes of June 13, June 20 and June 29, 2006, Joe Townshend seconded motion. All were in favor. There was no discussion. Motion passed.
G. DeLisle made motion to approve the Executive Session Minutes of June 29, 2006, Joe Townshend seconded, there was no discussion. All were in favor. Motion passed.
J. Driscoll, out of necessity made motion to approve the minutes of July 18, 2006, J. Townshend seconded. There was no discussion. Motion passed.
J. Driscoll, out of necessity made motion to approve the Executive Session Minutes of July 18, 2006.
J. Townshend seconded. There was no discussion. Motion passed.
INTERVIEWS:
FIREFIGHTER CANDIDATES
Eight questions were presented to all three candidates; Questions 1 & 8 were asked by Selectman Townshend; Questions 2 & 4 were asked by Selectman Driscoll; Questions 3 & 5 were asked by Fire Chief; and questions 6 & 7 were asked by Selectman DeLisle. Questions are attached to and are part of the minutes.
5:40PM – BRIAN
DAPONDE
Question #1: Regarding serving the community Mr. Daponde said that the Department is doing its best. All are dedicated to the Department. Department has a good response time
Question # 2: Mr. Daponde felt that by hiring him would improve the Department because he is dedicated, honest, a hard worker, takes the extra steps. Has a great deal to offer the Department.
Question # 3: Beyond putting out fires other responsibility is to the community, not only keeping it safe but also as being a roll model for children and families.
Question # 4: Regarding personal characteristics, Mr. Daponde mentioned that being dedicated, hard working and well groomed would also be part of a good firefighter.
Minutes Board of Selectmen, 8-15-06
Continued - Interview Brian DaPonde
Page 2 of 10
Question # 5: Working extra hard, being a good family man, being dedicated to the Department, making all the drills would be some of above the ordinary Mr. DaPonde would have to offer as a career Firefighter. Another asset would be extra training.
Question # 6: Other interests aside from the fire service would first family, sports, music, golf and skiing.
Question # 7: Very proud of accomplishments over the past eight years. Took extra classes to excel. At the present have seven people reporting to him.
Question # 8: Mr. Daponde mentioned that he would obey orders from his superior. However if he knew something his supervisor did not know he would inform him, anything to keep other firefighters safe.
Mr. Daponde mentioned that he is proud to be a part of the Town, and that his roots are here. Will try to do everything to make this Town a better and safer place.
6:00 P.M. –
CHRISTOPHR RASCHILLA
Question # 1: Felt that the Department is doing its very best for the community. One of the reasons being that it offers safety programs to children.
Question #2: Would bring a different persona to the department. Also has a passion for the job and the community.
Question # 3: During the day the job is a lot more administrative. Would be able to communicate better with the public.
Question # 4: Personal characterics would be willingness to learn. Possesses good personal skills; has drive and passion for the job.
Question # 5: Experience speaks for itself. Responded to a good many of calls, fires and accidents.
Question # 6: Being a family man is main interest aside from the fire service.
Question # 7: Present job there is a great deal of customer service. Handles a number of complaints. Has the ability to handle all types of situations.
Question # 8: Mr. Rashilla felt that if a superior gave an unsafe order that would affect life safety it would be addressed on the spot. If not in that situation it could wait.
Mr. Rashilla shared with the Selectmen that after graduating high school he entered into the Explorer Post 525 at the Fire Station. Developed the passion of wanting to be a firefighter, on his own. After two years was hired as a Call Firefighter in 1997. Wants to give back to the Community what it has given him over the years.
Minutes Board of Selectmen 8-15-06
Interview full time Firefighter
Page 3 of 10
6:20 P.M. – JOSEPH
REALE
Question # 1: The Department is doing a good job and the Fire Chief is “great”. For the most part the Department does its best with what it has to work with.
Question # 2: Has more experience than the other candidates. Has already been Academy trained. Is very familiar with the apparatus and connects well with the public.
Question # 3: Other responsibilities, serving the public.
Question # 4: Personal characteristics are good mechanical capabilities, working with the public,
co-workers, and being able to solve problems.
Questions # 5: Has been a resident over 30 years; knows the community and the people very well.
Question # 6: Other interests are outdoors, likes working with his hands and dealing with people.
Question # 7: Willingness to work. Initiative is reflected by being the first one to volunteer and doing things to better himself.
Question # 8: If given an unsafe order would confront the supervisor and ask why. Discuss another way to carry out the order so as not to harm other firefighters.
Mr. Reale mentioned that he has been before the Selectmen four years ago. The Department has become a part of him. Not afraid to make the change from the job he has been doing for the past 25 years, and that his wife was in support of him.
G. DeLisle made motion to enter into executive session for the purpose of personnel discussions to return to open. J. Driscoll seconded. All were in favor by roll call vote.
The Selectmen returned to open session to announce their decision to offer the position of full-time Firefighter to Joseph Reale pending a physical, and to approve the Fire Chief's recommendation to keep the list active for at least twelve (12) months.
APPOINTMENTS:
7:15P.M. - ATTORNEY
LAWRENCE LEVINE & THE DENARDO FAMILY
Attorney Levine came before the Board on behalf of the DeNardo family, Town residents for many years and business owners. The purpose of the appointment was to inform the Board of future plans the DeNardo family has regarding purchasing property located at 215 Shaker Road, in conjunction with a new location for their business. Attorney Levine introduced the DeNardo's existing plans and
conceptional plans, and stated that everything at this time is just conceptional. Attorney Levine mentioned that construction has to be postponed for a year or two because of a number of conditions and asked the Board if they would have any concerns conceptionally with them establishing at that property. The Board briefly looked over the material Attorney Levine presented. G. DeLisle mentioned they would take it under advisement, and that any issues the Selectmen many have will be forwarded to
Minutes Board of Selectmen 8-15-06
Continued appointment Attorney Levine
Page 4 of 10
Attorney Levine within the next few weeks. Attorney Levine also mentioned that they will be meeting with the Planning Board.
7:30P.M. - SENIOR
CENTER STUDY COMMITTEE
The spokesmen for the Senior Center Sturdy Committee, Bob Hildreth, started off by thanking Rich Gale, Building Facilities Manager and Dan Hellyer, Building Inspector for all their help. Mr. Hildreth presented concept plans regarding ADA compliance. Things mentioned were that the Credit Union will be moving in 2007. The kitchen and all bathrooms will be ADA approved. The budget from the Town for the project would be $400,000 and that an additional $400,000 will be received from the State. The Board congratulated the Committee for "sticking" with the project and that they seem to be on the right path.
INTERVIEWS - POLICE
SERGEANT CANDIDATES:
8:45P.M. - OFFICER
DANIEL BRUNO
Resumes were handed to the Selectmen by Mr. Bruno:
Five questions were presented to the two candidates; The first question: What community services are you involved in? and question 2 were asked by Selectman Driscoll; Question 3 was asked by Selectman Townshend; Question 4 was asked by Selectman DeLisle; Question 7 was asked by the Police Chief. Questions are attached to and are part of the minutes.
Question: Just being a police officer is very much community service oriented. Was involved with the East Longmeadow Salutes Committee; active with Western New England College; alumni volunteer with the college radio station; volunteered as an assistant hockey coach at the high school.
Question #3: Personal trait is personality, can be a very good leader, very positive attitude every day. Receive a lot of respect because of personality; try to be an easy person to work with.
Question #4 : By instilling a sense of professionalism to the officers showing how to do the job correctly, help them to display a good attitude and try to be more personable with the public.
Question #7: As a supervisor being faced with a situation would first need both sides of story. Need time to speak with officer and citizen involved. If not a serious issue handle himself otherwise bring before the Chief. A report would still be presented to the Chief regardless the nature.
Question #1: Have eight years experience in Town. To be a Sergeant would give opportunity to implement some new thoughts and ideas. Could be a good role model for the younger officers. Being a younger Sergeant could be a good liaison between the older and younger officers. Would do a good job for the Department and Town; have confidence in abilities; believe would be a real asset to the Department.
Mr. Bruno expressed to the Selectmen his desire for this position. Passionate person. Always taken extra responsibility at work and in personal life; can be trusted to do big things when the time comes.
Board of Selectmen Meeting 8-15-06
Interviews Police Sergeant continued
Page 5 of 10
9:05 - JEFFREY
DELESSIO
Question: Involved in youth activities; very active on sports level.
Question #3: Personal traits: very open minded and easy going.
Question #4: Would show by example. Mentioned that other officers tend to look up to him and see things the same way.
Question #7: First hear out complaint to see what options, then report to the Chief. If not serious then would wait. Report to the Chief regardless serious or minor.
Question #1: Have 20 years in the Department. Chance to move forward. Good opportunity.
Mr. Delessio mentioned to the Selectmen that he has seen and experienced a lot and have always been there for the Department in the 20 years working there. Worked with different Sergeants and have been involved in many programs, always there when needed.
G. DeLisle made motion to enter into executive session for the purpose of personnel issues to return to open session. J. Driscoll seconded. All were in favor by roll call vote.
The Selectmen returned to open session. J. Driscoll, Chairman made announcement that the position for full-time Sergeant was offered to Jeffrey Delessio.
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
OLD BUSINESS:
There was some discussion regarding the Town Clerk’s request to have water and sewer bills paid by Town residents at Peoples Bank. The Selectmen decided to table the request until the Town's new program Munis is fully implemented. Executive Secretary to notify Town Clerk.
National Grid’s representative responded to a citizens’ petition by implementing that they are willing to meet with the Selectmen and Town residents to discuss their service. Executive Secretary to set up an Open Town Forum. Date will be sometime in September.
There was some discussion regarding the police surplus vehicle and the responses from the departments. The Department of Public Works stated that they could use the vehicle. J. Townshend was against, thought it would be better if the vehicle was sold. G. DeLisle made motion to give the vehicle to the Department of Public Works, which would include any maintenance and repairs needed, J. Driscoll, out of necessity seconded motion. Vote passed 2-1.
Board of Selectmen meeting 8-15-06
Selectmen Old Business continued
Page 6 of 10
Regarding the sidewalk issue, Selectman DeLisle mentioned that he met with the School Committee, Capital Planning, Department of Public Works. Executive Secretary was also present, and discussed the issue. G. DeLisle reported that there is some progress being made, not in the areas suggested as of yet. Chapter 90 money could possibly be used, or according to the Capital Planning it could be done by Debt Exclusion. Efforts are being made; the Departments are working on it. It was also mentioned that there are other options in the interim, i.e. car pooling etc.
NEW BUSINESS:
The Board of Selectmen voted to approve the request from Walter Kenney on behalf of the suburban Cheerleaders to hold a carwash at the Pleasantview parking lot on August 19, 2006, in conjunction with the recommendations from Recreation, Department of Public Works, Council on Aging and Fire Department. G. DeLisle made motion to approve, J. Townshend seconded. There was no discussion. All were in favor. Vote passed.
There was lengthy discussion regarding the request from
Matthew Bean, Director of Athletics,
J. Townshend mentioned that perhaps the school could pay seeing it is being used for school purposes. J. Driscoll mentioned that ELCAT money has to be used; it is not taxpayer money. Money comes from the Cable Company. ELCAT director spoke to the fact that their equipment is there to use. According to the ELCAT director it was hard to get any volunteers to help tape meetings etc. Executive Secretary to contact Cable Advisory Committee to set up a time for them to meet with the Selectmen and the people making the request. ELCAT Director to contact the Advisory Committee and make them aware to what is going on. J. Townshed was opposed to the request of $15,000 dollars, and said “there is already equipment available, don’t need to purchase new. Train people.”
G. DeLisle made motion to appoint the entire Public Safety Advisory Committee for a one-year appointment, expiring on August 16, 2007. Motion was seconded by J. Townshend. There was no further discussion. All were in favor. Motion passed.
The Board of Selectmen accepted with regret the resignation of Captain Brian Falk, from the East Longmeadow Fire Department after serving for more than thirty-five years.
Executive Secretary is to schedule a meeting with the United Way of Pioneer Valley to discuss the annual campaign kickoff.
G. DeLisle made motion, J. Townshend seconded, to accept the
recommendations of the Police and Fire Departments regarding the Site Plan for
The Selectmen noted the review of Definitive Industrial Subdivision Plan for Pecousic Park, Heritage Park (E&A), LLC and E&A Acquisitions.
Board of Selectmen Minutes 8-15-06
Selectmen New Business continued
Page 7 of 10
The Board approved the request from St Michael’s Knight’s of
Columbus for a One Day Liquor License (beer & wine), and also entertainment
to be held on Sunday, August 27, 2006 from 12 Noon to 3:30P.M., at St.
Michael’s Community Center,
BOARD OF HEALTH
OLDBUSINESS
Regarding the July 2006 report on waste reduction, G. DeLisle mentioned after speaking to the Town Accountant it was pointed out that the money from recycling, bag purchasing and the reduction in tonnage going out saved the Town $240,000 dollars the first year and that $250,000 did not have to be allocated for that line item in the budget. Total savings were close to $500.00 for the year.
J. Driscoll made motion not to re-appoint the Solid Waste Advisory Team for another term; may have a need for the team in the future. G. DeLisle seconded. There was some discussion regarding the accomplishments of the team. The Selectmen praised the members. Executive Secretary to send thank you letters to the members. All were in favor. Motion passed.
J. Townshend mentioned that a resident contacted him from 141 Elm Street regarding a health issue. The resident was in the audience and asked to speak to the Selectmen on behalf of his son-in-law who lives at 131 Elm Street. G. DeLisle mentioned that if the issue would take no more that a few minutes the resident may address the Board. Executive Secretary mentioned that the issue is being brought up under Town Counsel. Chairman of the Board of Health said to listen to what the resident has to say and if it involves having both parties present to verify facts than it will be done later under Town Counsel. Justice Richard Auther introduced himself and mentioned that during the ten days of rain the entire back area of Elm Street mentioned flooded terribly. 141 Elm Street blaming 131 Elm Street for digging up a pipe which is supposedly draining the water away from that area. DPW has not been able to locate any pipe in that area. G. DeLisle mentioned that the issue will be discussed with Town Counsel and will keep Mr. Auther informed of any decision.
The Board noted the letter from Health Inspector that the property located at 188 Vineland Avenue was in compliance to orders set forth by the Board of Health, and Health Inspector.
The Board noted the letter from Mr. John Goodsell and his request for a postponement of orders by the Board of Health regarding his dog. J. Driscoll moved to extend the order for another 30 days only.
G. DeLisle seconded. All were in favor. There was no further discussion. Vote passed.
The Board decided to take no action regarding the request from John & Carol Santaniello, 329 Dwight Road to have the Town pick up their trash, which is presently being picked up by Springfield.
J. Driscoll made motion, G. DeLisle seconded. There was no further discussion. All were in favor. Motion passed. Executive Secretary to contact the Santaniello’s with the Board’s decision.
Board of Selectmen Meeting 8-15-06
Health Old Business continued
Page 8 of 10
NEW BUSINESS:
G. DeLisle made motion to approve; J. Townshend seconded the
Massage Therapy License for Kelley M. Annino, to practice at Therapeutic
Massage,
G. DeLisle made motion to approve; J. Townshend seconded the
Massage Therapy License for Gina Welch, to practice at Therapeutic Massage,
TOWN COUNSEL:
OLD BUSINESS
Town Counsel spoke regarding the letter from the Attorney General's Office requesting an extension of time to respond to the legality of Article 23 presented at the Annual Town Meeting. Town Counsel spoke with Attorney Richie, head of the municipal law unit. Attorney Richie said that the Attorney General's Office was in the process of reviewing the By-law, they were not ready to make a determination and requested that Town Counsel extend the time. Town Counsel indicated to the Board that after receiving the request it would be in the best interest to grant the extension and cooperate with the Attorney General's Office. The Selectmen had a few questions for Town Counsel to clarify his decision to extend. The Selectmen were comfortable with the explanation from Town Counsel.
Town Counsel noted the response from the Department of Public Works regarding the Elm Street drainage issue. Town Counsel said that it needs to be addressed by the Departments and determine what rights exist if any. Not much can be done at this point unless significant studies are made. G. DeLisle mentioned the resident at 131 Elm has recently moved to that address and has inherited the problem without any knowledge of the history. J. Townshend said he visited the site and witnessed the vast amount of water in the back yards. The resident of 141 Elm Street claimed that 131 Elm Street while doing some work in the back yard disconnected the pipe that connects to another pipe. By doing this it has caused massive water in 141's backyard. Town Counsel mentioned that in the Department of Public Works letter it was mentioned that there has been ponding in those areas for a significant number of years. J. Driscoll made mention of the contents of the Health Inspectors letter regarding the situation and that according to the Health Inspector there was Town business done in that area whether it was documented or not. There was more discussion and the issue was tabled until the next meeting. Town Counsel to speak with the Superintendent of Public Works and report to the Selectmen.
The Executive Secretary mentioned that there were a great number of responses to letters that have gone out to residents on the new By-law to establish a municipal charges lien for residents who fail to license their dogs. The Executive Secretary asked the question whether or not the liens should include any outstanding chargers prior to the Town Meeting vote. Town Counsels' suggestion was that it would not be appropriate to make it retroactive.
Board of Selectmen Meeting 8-15-06
Town Counsel continued
Page 9 of 10
J. Townshend said that he had received numerous calls and that he thinks that this is a serious mistake sending out liens to residents if they are paying their bills on time. J. Townshend mentioned that the "homework" should be done before anything goes out. An apology letter was presented by
J. Townshend that was sent to a resident from the Town Clerk's Office regarding the error. G. DeLisle said that when changing over from the old system to the new system there was no way to verify the accuracy. Not all the information was transferred over to the new system.
Regarding Rollins Drive Town Counsel mentioned that there was a subdivision where there was a bond taken by the Planning Board. The developer stopped performing under the bond. Demand was made on the bonding company for payment. The bonding company has since refused liability under the bond indicating that based upon information provided by the town, work has ceased more than a year before the demand on the bonding company was made; therefore since suit was not initiated within that one year period there was no liability remaining to the bonding company for the payment. Town Counsel to meet with Planning to discuss what legal action if any against the bonding company or the developer under the subdivision. Town Counsel to report back to the Selectmen. G. DeLisle mentioned that the street is getting worse, and what can be done if it becomes an issue of public safety? Town Counsel will report back to the Selectmen.
NEW BUSINESS
Town Counsel explained the reason for the Performance Bond from ECO/Springfield to the Communities. The Selectmen took no action and went with the recommendation of Town Counsel to accept the Bond.
Town Counsel mentioned that the correspondence from the Building Inspector regarding the fence violation for Robert and Sandra Lobik is at the point now that there will be tickets issued if the fence is not removed. By the passage of the new By-law by the voters at the Annual Town Meeting on May 2, 2006, a municipal charges lien can be applied against the real property of the owner. The Lobik's will be paying a $100 fine each day until the fence is in compliance. Building Inspector is trying to bring it into conformity through a zoning issue. Town Counsel mentioned that he would have approached the issue in another way.
The request for compensation from the Health Inspector was tabled until next meeting.
G. DeLisle mentioned to allow the Police Chief to handle the vacation schedule for the new officer.
G. DeLisle made motion to enter into executive session for the purpose of personal issues, right to privacy, to return to open. All were in favor by roll call vote.
COA asked that due to the absence of an employee in the office if it would be feasible to have other workers fill in. The Selectmen said that as long as it's within the COA budget she may do what she feels needs to be done.
Board of Selectmen Meeting 8-15-06
Town Counsel continued
Page 10 of 10
CORRESPONDENCE:
It was taken under advisement the letter from William L. Collins Jr., owner or Lighthouse Liquors regarding the ballot question allowing wine sales in retail stores.
The Selectmen noted the letter from Susan Goodchild to Dr. Costa regarding sports fees.
MEETINGS/INVITATIONS/REMINDERS:
The Chairman of the Board read the meetings/invitations/reminders
J. Driscoll mentioned that he would attend the groundbreaking ceremony for Benton Professional Development on Thursday, August 24th at 3:00 P.M.
G. DeLisle made motion to adjourn, J. Townshend seconded. All were in favor by roll call vote.
Meeting adjourned at 9:50 P.M.
Minutes Respectfully Submitted by Lorraine Banspach, Assistant Executive Secretary
APPROVED BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES, Tuesday, August 15, 2006
______________________________________________________________
Joe Townshend, Clerk of the Board of Selectmen