MINUTES
Board of Selectmen Meeting
Tuesday, April 4, 2006, 5:00pm
Senior Center 328 North Main Street
Present: John Claffey, Chairman, Board of Selectmen; James Driscoll, Chairman, Board of Health;
Lorraine Banspach, Assistant Executive Secretary, recorded the Minutes
Chairman of the Board of Selectmen opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance.
J. Claffey mentioned the first order of business is interviews for the position of Recreation Director.
J. Driscoll moved to entered into executive session for discussion of personnel issues then return to open session, G.DeLisle seconded, there was no discussion.
INTERVIEWS: RECREATION DIRECTOR POSITION
5:00pm - Thomas J. Tyburski
5:20pm - Christy L. Moore
5:40pm - Gary Grindle
6:00pm - Sean M. Dwyer
PUBLIC FORUM:
6:30PM - John Claffey, Chairman Board of Selectmen, Farewell speech.
J. Claffey spoke to the fact that this was his last Selectmen’s meeting and thanked the citizens of East Longmeadow for giving him the opportunity to serve the Town over the past several years; first as a member of the Conservation Commission and secondly as a member of the Board of Selectmen.
J. Claffey mentioned that this position was never taken lightly and that he will be leaving with a sense of pride for the accomplishments of the Board over the past three years.
J.Claffey spoke of the budgeting process presented at Town Meeting the past three years and that it was not an easy feat. He complemented the department heads, the elected and appointed boards for their cooperation in regards to the budgets and how they made it happen even with the restraints put on them. J. Claffey mentioned that the members of the Appropriation Committee deserve recognition for coordinating this process and for helping prioritize the Town’s needs during this process.
J. Claffey also mentioned that during his tenure the Board has hired three department heads, Police Chief, Douglas Mellis; Building Inspector, Daniel Hellyer and Executive Secretary to the Board of Selectmen, Nick Breault. Mr. Claffey went on to say that also put into place was a new waste reduction
Minutes Board of Selectmen Meeting 4-4-06
Public Forum continued
program for the Town, assisted by the Solid Waste Advisory Team and entered into a Pay as You Throw Program, which is now seen as a model for other communities. J. Claffey mentioned that the Board was ridiculed by a small vocal group, calling themselves “concerned citizens”. In the end in spite of this ridicule, the Town stands to save $250,000 per year for the town’s waste disposal budget.
J. Claffey went on to say that he was disappointed in some “concerned citizens” thinking it appropriate to threaten the safety and sanctity of the homes of their elected officials; and continued to the fact that this unfortunately served as an indelible blemish which was otherwise an enlightening and rewarding experience.
Mr. Claffey thanked fellow Board members, Gary DeLisle and Jim Drisoll, and went on to say how they always conducted business in an atmosphere of cooperation and mutual respect, sometimes disagreed on issues but never disagreeable with one another.
J. Claffey thanked the majority of the residents for their concern and support of their Town and the elected officials. Mr. Claffey also mentioned how supportive the community was when the Claffey family was faced with a sudden life threatening illness. The Claffey family will always be grateful to those who stood by them.
In closing J. Claffey was thankful for being allowed to serve as a member of the Board of Selectmen.
Selectman DeLisle thanked J. Claffey for his time and dedication and how it will be the Town’s loss. J. Driscoll mentioned that it was an honor to serve with J. Claffey, and that he will be sadly missed.
APPOINTMENTS:
6:30pm - Barbara Noah, Cultural Affairs Council
Barbara Noah mentioned that she grew up in East
Longmeadow, and that she teaches at
J. Claffey said that he appreciated her interest. G. DeLisle mentioned that Jodi O’Brien, co-chairman of the Council spoke very highly of her and that she would do a great job.
J. Driscoll made motion to appoint Barbara Noah, to the Cultural Affairs Council, G. DeLisle seconded, motion, there was no discussion, motion passed, all were in favor.
7:00pm- FIRE CHIEF MONTHLY MEETING:
J. Claffey congratulated Chief Wallace for receiving the
J. Driscoll mentioned that the Board of Selectmen will have a special presentation for the Chief at the Fire Station, on Monday, April 10 at 10am.
Minutes Board of Selectmen Meeting 4-4-06
Fire Chief Monthly Meeting continued
Chief Wallace spoke regarding the appointment of James Gastone to rank of Probationary Firefighter effective April 1, 2006. G. Delisle made motion to appoint James Gastone to rank of Probationary Firefighter, J. Driscoll seconded, there was no further discussion, all were in favor. Motion passed.
In regards to the Massachusetts Firefighter Service Awards Certificates the Chief mentioned that this award is given in five-year increments; starts on the 20th anniversary of any firefighter. The form is
filled out by the Chief than goes to the Fire Marshall. This award is for anyone who has dedicated himself 20 years and above and has done an outstanding job. The Chief spoke to the fact that Deputy Chief Steve Rybacki and Captain David Villamaino, are both well-deserved awards. The Chairman of the Board of Selectmen presented the awards.
Chief Wallace presented the Board with the new roster effective April 5th.
7:30PM - POLICE CHIEF APPOINTMENT:
The Chief mentioned that the certified civil service list was received in the Selectmen’s Office, and that there are four Permanent Intermittent on the list. The Executive Secretary mentioned that the four candidates had signed the list in the Selectmen’s Office. The Chief mentioned that he was informed that the veterans went to the top of the list, but now being told that the permanent intermittent start at the top then the veterans. The request was for one position from the civil service list. G. DeLisle asked about the Sergeant’s list. Chief Mellis mentioned that the Sergeants have been certified just waiting for it to be sent out. The Chief mentioned that they are looking to fill the patrolman position first.
There was discussion regarding the administration fees. Chief Mellis mentioned that it was listed in the contract as 5% for an added fee for extra duty details The Chief wanted the fees increased to 10% to be in line with the other communities. Chief Mellis went on to explain why he would like to see the fees increased. Attorney Donahue as well as Appropriations to review.
The Chief mentioned their department has received numerous
complaints with skateboarders in certain areas one being the Library Parking
lot. The Chief went on to say that an
Article would be presented on the Annual Town Warrant regarding a skateboard
ordinance, which will limit the use of the skateboards in specific areas. The Chief mentioned that a seminar was held
at
James Driscoll was not present during the Police Chief’s appointment.
8:00pm – APPOINTMENT TOWN CLERK
The Board voted to re-appoint Thomas Florence as Town Clerk/Treasurer/Collector for a 3-year term from March 17, 2006 through March 17, 2009. G. DeLisle made motion, J. Driscoll seconded, motion made, no further discussion, all were in favor.
Minutes Board of Selectmen Meeting 4-4-06
Town Clerk Appointment continued
The Board discussed the vacancy in the Town Clerk’s Office and the two resumes received for the position. G.DeLisle mentioned to have the Town Clerk and the Executive Secretary handle the vacant position. J. Driscoll mentioned to have Laurie Magnani, former clerks office personnel now Selectmen’s office personnel, paid at her new position pay rate while in transition between the two offices.
8:30pm – APPOINTMENT TOWN MODERATOR, JAMES SHEILS
Town Moderator mentioned the different procedures he is trying to implement this year regarding Town meeting, one being a Town Moderator Web Page, which is up and running. Another procedure
Mr. Sheils mentioned was that in advance of Town Meeting to have a session, which is taped for broadcast on ELCAT, in which the articles are addressed, to provide information on what the townspeople are asked to vote upon. Mr. Sheils spoke with Gerri Gagnon, ELCAT Director to set up times in April. The Moderator also would like to have the sponsors of the various articles make a
two-minute pitch, not to exceed one hour of airtime. Mr. Sheils mentioned inviting the Board to make a pitch on the articles that they would be sponsors of.
The Board approved the Minutes and the Executive Session Minutes of March 14, 2006.
TOWN COUNSEL:
In regards to Tracy Lane and “on-hold” street takings, Town Counsel mentioned that about two or three years ago there were a number of streets that had been approved for acceptance for taking by the Board’s of Selectmen that went back as far as 1988, Tracy Lane being the 1988 street. Town Counsel mentioned he does not know why prior Boards have never taken these streets. Town Counsel went on to say that the cost of recording the documents increased from $10 or $25 to $75, and there was an issue regarding funding for this because there were so many streets in question. Town Counsel mentioned that this was put on hold until just recently when brought up again by Planning and DPW because there were streets that needed some work. J. Driscoll mentioned that Dan Burack, Chairman Board of Public Works wanted to meet with the Selectmen to discuss the issue.
Regarding the Town Warrant there was a question regarding the number (square footage) with the proposed zone change. J. Driscoll mentioned that the document was submitted as 40,000 square feet. Town Counsel said that some people have questions whether it is 65,000 square feet for each of the sections of the proposed By-law change. The Document indicates 40,000 square feet in the retail section and that is the language that goes into the warrant subject to motions to amend if after the Public Hearing of the Planning Board, if they decide that the article should change.
Town Counsel mentioned the three bonding articles, and that the Town Accountant contacted the Town’s bond counsel and explained to them what the proposed intention of the Appropriations Committee and the School Committee was with respect to bond items.
In regards to the letter from the Building Inspector, Town Counsel mentioned that the Building Inspector received a request from the Planning Board to enforce the signage By-law with respect to the Walgreen free standing sign, and that it was a matter of interpretation.
Minutes Board of Selectmen Meeting, 4-4-06
Town Counsel continued
Town Counsel mentioned that he spoke with the Building Inspector regarding the Zoning by-law clarification which dealt with set backs for pre-existing non–conforming structures, and that the issue had been resolved.
Town Counsel explained that the legislature late last year enacted a new statute, which dispensed with the state fee for automatic amusement devises for Sunday entertainment. The Town was not aware of the statute and collected these fees. The state fees are to be returned to the applicants.
Town Counsel mentioned he was approached by a local
attorney regarding a deed that his client received from the town about 20 or 30
years ago, property was in tax title.
Town Counsel went on to say that the deed did contain a clause required
by
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
OLD BUSINESS:
The Board noted the responses from the Recreation
Director, Police Department, Superintendent of Schools and Planning Board
regarding the Summer Math Camp, Joanne Wilson,
The Board tabled the Employee Health Insurance regarding the Medex and FY07 rates until the April 25th Board meeting.
In regards to the Internet & Filtering Policy from the IT Department, J.Claffey mentioned to send back to IT for recommendations.
The Chairman of the Board of Selectmen signed the NIMS document. Executive Secretary explained that this acknowledges to the State that the Town has adopted the NIMS system and recognizes it. By adopting also allows the Town to apply and continue to receive grant funding under the Homeland Security. G. DeLisle made motion to adopt the NIMS system, J. Driscoll seconded, there was no further discussion all were in favor. Motion carried.
NEW BUSINESS:
The Board approved the Annual Jaycees’ Fishing Derby, to
be held at
The Board approved the One-Day Liquor License request (beer & wine), for the Girls Soccer Booster Club, to be held on Saturday, May 20, 2006 from 7pm-11pm, at St. Luke’s Greek Orthodox Church, 400 Prospect Street. Also approved was entertainment, same times. The Board waived the fees. J. Driscoll made motion to approve, G. DeLisle seconded, all were in favor, there was no discussion. Motion carried.
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New Business continued
The Board approved One Day Liquor License, all alcoholic, for St. Luke’s Greek Orthodox Church on Saturday, May 20, 2006 from 5pm-10pm, at 400 Prospect Street in conjunction with their after golf tournament. The Board waived the fees. J. Driscoll made motion to approve, G. DeLisle seconded, all were in favor, there was no discussion. Motion carried.
The Chairman of the Board signed the contract for the transfer of FY06 Local Cultural Council funds from the Massachusetts Cultural Council to the Town’s local cultural account.
The Board appointed the Memorial Day Committee members for 2006, from the ITAMS and The American Legion. G. DeLisle made motion to appoint the Memorial Day Committee, J. Driscoll seconded, there was no further discussion, all were in favor. Motion carried.
The Board noted the request from Robert Lewis,
The Board noted the employee/retiree health insurance rates submitted by Rosina Goodrich effective July 1, 2006 through June 30, 2007. Letter to go out to all employees and retirees.
The Board voted to accept the recommendations made from the GIS Committee on their meeting of March 30, 2006, regarding the proposed map fee changes. G. DeLisle made motion to approve,
J. Driscoll, seconded, all were in favor. Motion carried.
BOARD OF HEALTH:
OLD BUSINESS
In regards to the correspondence from Beverly Hirschhorn,
grant manager for East Longmeadow Tobacco Control, the Executive Secretary went
over the updated material presented on the first quarter activities. There was some discussion on the educational
portion of the activities and that the Board of Health will need an update from
Sarah McColgan,
NEW BUSINESS:
The Board noted the correspondence from Fred Kowal, Health Inspector, George Kingston, Chairman Conservation and a report for the Fire Department, regarding 184-188 Vineland Avenue, a property owned by Robert Santanello, 42 Lombard Avenue. The Health Inspector is recommending that
Mr. Santanello come before the Board at their next available meeting regarding the situation with the prevision that should a re- inspection be made prior to the meeting than the hearing would be cancelled.
Minutes Board of Selectmen 4-4-06
Board of Health New Business continued
G. DeLisle made motion to accept the recommendation from the Health Inspector, J. Claffey seconded motion, there was discussion, all were in favor. Motion carried.
The Board of Selectmen noted the correspondence and photos
from Health Inspector regarding the orders to correct the health complaint on
the property of Adriano & Barbara Punis,
The Board noted the bid quotation for the annual mosquito spraying. There was only one bid submitted that was from RLFS Inc., Rebecca Lynn Flying Service Inc., Livingston, N.Y. The bid quotation was for $9.81 per acre to cover over 1,000 acres of wetlands total cost $9,810.00. J. Claffey made motion to accept the bid of RLFS Inc., G. DeLisle seconded, there was no further discussion, all were in favor, Motion carried.
CORRESPONDENCE:
The Board noted the correspondence from the Fire Department regarding the fire code violations at
The Board noted the letter from the Commonwealth regarding Live Racing Revitalization Act.
J. Claffey noted the letter sent in from a resident of Campbell Estates regarding the good results that came from the installation of the “Neighborhood Watch” sign.
The Board noted the letter from Senator John F. Kerry regarding the First Annual Massachusetts Procurement & Business Exposition.
J. Claffey read the letter of thanks from Dr. Ed Costa,
Superintendent of schools addressed to the Police Chief regarding the
administrative search together with the State Canine Unit, at
The Board also noted the letter from the Council on Aging Director together with the Senior Center Study Committee and their input regarding the recreation director vacancy.
J. Claffey mentioned the
MEETINGS/INVITATIONS/REMINDERS
J.Claffey read the meetings/invitations and reminders.
It was noted by J. Claffey that
Also noted was the April 12th meeting at 7pm, for purpose of the re-organization of the Board. This is a tentative time.
J. Driscoll moved to enter into executive session for purpose of personnel matters then return to open session to adjourn. G. Delisle seconded. All were in favor by roll call vote. Motion passed.
Meeting adjourned at 8:50pm
APPROVED: BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING, Tuesday, May 23,
2006
James D. Driscoll, Chairman Board of Selectmen