MINUTES
BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING
Tuesday, February 6, 2007, at 6:45 P.M.
Community Room East Longmeadow Library
60 Center Square, East Longmeadow Massachusetts 01028
PRESENT: James D. Driscoll, Chairman; Joe Townshend, Chairman Board of Health; Jack Villamaino, Clerk of the Board.
The Chairman of the Board opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC FORUM
INTERVIEW DOG OFFICER
6:45 P.M. – LISA
GALPERT
Ms. Galpert came before the Board at a previous meeting to interview for the Dog Officer position. The Selectmen were unable to make a decision at that time and decided to wait until there was a full Board in place. Ms. Galpert mentioned that presently is in sales of dog products and also does pet sitting during the week. J. Townshend said he was impressed with her resume the last time she was interviewed. J. Villamaino said that the resume was very clear and informative. Ms. Galpert asked the Selectmen to give a brief description of what is expected of her on a day to day basis as dog officer. Also discussed were the hours of the position.
6:50P.M. – LEONARD
EREMENTO, OWNER BACH TOWING
It was mentioned by the Chairman of the Board that this item is on the Agenda for discussion with the Police Chief at a later time. Mr. Eremento said that he wanted to speak now to express his concerns regarding the towing rotation in Town. Mr. Eremento wanted the Selectmen to know that one of the other towing companies has recently gone out of business; another company is in the process of purchasing and is trying to get on the rotation list. Mr. Eremento just wanted the other companies to follow the same policies and procedures for the Town that they had to. Selectman Driscoll said that his concerns will be included in the conversation with the Police Chief at his appointment.
APPOINTMENTS:
7:00 P.M.- ATTORNEY
JAMES SHEILS, VERIZON LEASE
Attorney Sheils came before the Board representing Verizon Wireless regarding the Lease currently in place at the water tower, 150 Somers Road. Atty. Sheils gave a brief description of the history of the water tower starting in 1992, with the lease due to expire in 2012. The Town is presently installing an additional water tank at that site. Complication is that the new tank will effectively block one of the three sectors that the facility (Verizon) uses for its broadcast and transmissions, which will have an impact in many ways. Atty. Sheils mentioned that there has been conversation with Sean Kelley (DPW), Tighe & Bond, and Chicago Tank Installation. The
Board of Selectmen Meeting 2/6/07
Appointments continued
proposal from Verizon would be to re-locate its antenna from the existing tank to the new tank at Verizon Wireless cost, also install a new shed for the equipment. Plans were submitted by Atty. Sheils reflecting these changes. Verizon Wireless would like to amend the existing lease to reflect these changes at their cost. Verizon is asking that the Board agree to support an RFP to allow for an extension of the lease that will be running out in 2012 for a new term consistent with the first term; and would be up to the Board to determine which response it chooses to accept. Suggestion from Verizon, that assuming they are the successful bidder in the renewal process will consume the cost; if not then would suggest the cost that Verizon is incurring be off set against the remaining lease payment. There was further discussion. The request was tabled for Town Counsel.
7:15 P.M. – TOWN
MODERATOR, JAMES SHEILS, TOWN MEETING
Town Moderator reported he is a member of the Massachusetts Moderator Association and that the Association has put together a DVD on Massachusetts Town Meetings. Town Moderator said that he submitted information on East Longmeadow Town Meetings and is happy to report that his information made the final cut. Moderator went on to say that the DVD is an excellent overview of the Town Meeting geared to educated residents. DVD’s were given to the Library and schools. ELCAT was unable to broadcast the DVD. J. Driscoll said that they are working on getting new equipment. Town Moderator mentioned that his expectation is to broadcast on ELCAT, as was last year explaining each of the various articles that make it to the final warrant. Taping will be scheduled probably first week in May.
INTERVIEWS –
CONSERVATION COMMISSION VACANCY
George Kingston, Chairman of the Conservation Commission was present for the interviews.
7:30P.M.- STEVEN KESSLER, MD
Dr. Kessler mentioned that he has been a resident in Town since 1992. Very interested in preserving the level of natural habitat left in the Town. Interested in conservation in following through on commitments. Previously was on the Open Space Committee. Regarding the question asked by Selectman Villamaino, Dr. Kessler said that he is looking forward to the Community Preservation Act and that it is a great model to work on to build up resources so the Town could buy property that comes available. J. Driscoll agreed with Dr. Kessler.
7:35 P.M.- COLLEEN
FOERSTER
Works for a local environmental firm in Town, and has been involved with the Commission working on a number of projects over the past few years. Ms. Foerster said that she is looking to bring ideas from the private sector to home Town and has worked with the wetland protection act every day, feels that she is definitely qualified. Keeps current in the field by attending workshops etc. Would like to be involved with this strong and active Commission. J. Driscoll asked what her current job entails and asked if meeting times would be a problem. Ms. Foerster said that after speaking with her employer and if position is offered to her she would no longer be filing anything in East Longmeadow. Mr. Kingston spoke highly of Ms. Foerster. When asked by Mr. Kingston what her feeling would be about judgment of competitors and colleagues, Ms. Foerster said that she collaborates with other companies and would feel comfortable.
Board of Selectmen Meeting 2/6/07
Interviews Conservation Commission continued
7:40P.M. – JILL
CAFARELLI
Ms. Cafarelli mentioned that she and her husband have an engineering firm in Town. Have been in Town most of their life. Family is grown up and would like to get into more things that interest her. Does work with Cub Scouts, could bring new ideas to help with earning their badges. Feels that she is qualified for the position. Looking forward to going to summer classes on Massachusetts conservation. J. Townshend mentioned that the position is non-paying, and that she would be dedicating her time to the Town. This was not a problem with Ms. Cafarelli. Mr. Kingston asked about any conflict of interest. Ms. Cafarelli said that most of the work done in Town is with septic systems, don’t see any conflict.
7:45 P.M.-SHERON
WILLIAMS
Ms. Williams is a retired English teacher, taught in Longmeadow for 30 years; moved to East Longmeadow in 1995. Very interested in environmental concerns. Was compelled to apply for the position because of a questioner that was received with one of the question being on Town expansion. Ms. Williams filled in would like to see more green space preserved in Town.
Additional qualifications were handed out to the Selectmen. Ms. Williams said that one of her strongest qualifications is that not in any way personally or business wise connected with anything that may influence her decision-making abilities regarding land development. Ms. Williams has been a member of the Friends of Forest Park. Presently taking courses at Smith College, which would be helpful to the Committee.
J. Driscoll said that all four candidates were more that qualified and the decision will be a difficult one. Mr. Kingston said that the Community Preservation Committee is also looking for a new member and asked if the Selectmen would extend that information to those three candidates who were not chosen at this time.
INTERVIEWS – PUBLIC
SAFETY COMMITTEE VACANCY
Andrew Fraser, Chairman of the Public Safety Committee was present for the interviews. The Committee is looking to replace one vacancy and is requesting to expand the committee to add one more member. J. Driscoll entertained a motion to expand the Public Safety Committee by one seat as requested by the Committee through the Chairman, so moved by J. Villamaino,
J. Townshend seconded the motion. There was no further discussion. Motion passed unanimously.
7:50P.M. – RICHARD
BRADY
Mr. Brady has been a member of the East Longmeadow Call Firefighters for 30 years. Has been an EMT since 1979. Is very interested in the ambulance service in the Town and public safety of the Town. Believes this is the direction that the Town definitely needs to be going in. Mr. Brady also said that the Committee needs to be very creative to make it work; not going to be easy and he would like to be a part of it. Mr. Brady is a certified CPR AED Instructor (defibulator) for the Red Cross. Mr. Mr. Fraser mentioned that Mr. Brady has attended many of the meetings while not being on the committee, which shows dedication.
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Interviews Public Safety Committee continued
7:55 P.M. – JOHN
O’NEIL
Mr. O’Neil said that this has always been an interest of his, and recently has become an EMT. Has experience as a prosecutor, which causes him to work closely in public safety with a lot of police and fire departments. Presently working as head of procurement at Mass Mutual, and said that he could add value to the Committee. Mr. Fraser said that he was impressed that Mr. O’Neil had taken the time to contact him with many questions, and was gratified to see that level of interest.
8:05 P.M.- CRAIG
TEDESCHI
J. Driscoll mentioned that Craig Tedeschi is a former volunteer of the SWAT team.
Mr. Tedeschi said that he read of the opening in the Reminder. Returned to Town about two to three years ago. Has spent twenty years in the public service sector fifteen in the fire service and five in fire service with the city of New London. Background is EMT, currently holding certification in Connecticut also CPR Instructor based out of the State of Connecticut. Mr. Tedeschi mentioned that working with the Town of Vernon with their different components he could bring his skills to the committee in homeland security grant processing. J. Driscoll said that Mr. Tedeschi's background is very well qualified. J. Villamaino asked Mr. Tedeschi to expand on his involvement with homeland security grants.
Selectman Driscoll said that this is a rare occurrence that all the candidates are all very well qualified and asked Mr. Fraser if he would consider a substitute, "hate to have talented people that want to be involved not get involved". Mr. Fraser agreed.
INTERVIEWS – DOG
OFFICER VACANCY
8:20 P.M. – LINDA
JOHNSON
Ms. Johnson has been involved in raising and dealing with animals almost all her life; has been working for about four years in dog and cat rescue periodically. At the present Ms. Johnson is working for animal control in Ludlow on call part time. Ms. Johnson said that if appointed she would not be doing both jobs. Ms. Johnson said that regarding working with the courts that the MSPCA has more jurisdiction in that area and would turn over to them, but would be happy to go as a witness. Ms. Johnson said that currently is going through a Foster and Penn trainer course; does not want to become a trainer but wants to learn the mechanics. J. Villamaino asked about her certification as an animal control officer and the preparation involved. Ms. Johnson is also certified in the use of a tranquilizer gun however has not used, would need to brush up.
8:30P.M.- HENRY MORAN
J. Driscoll expressed his appreciation of his returning to interview once again. Mr. Moran
re-caped his involvement with the courts. Applying for position because he feels that he had the ability to turn a hostile situation into a positive manner. Can calm animals down. Does not have any training but is willing to go through any if needed. Mr. Moran said that he is dependable and has no criminal record, available 24/7, gets along with police department. Grew up in the area knows the Town and residents well. Can handle any court appearances if required to.
J. Townshend asked Mr. Moran to explain his knowledge of “Judo” would help in handling an animal.
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Interviews Dog Officer continued
J. Driscoll entertained a motion to appoint Linda Johnson as Dog Officer for the Town of East Longmeadow, J. Townshend made motion, J. Villamaino seconded. There was no further discussion. Motion passed unanimously.
INTERVIEW – PUBLIC
SAFETY COMMITTEE VACANCY
8:40 P.M.- MICHAEL
SACENTI
Mr. Sacenti mentioned that his background is in business. Has had experience in operating very large resorts and hotels with security staff ranging from 5-50 people. Very concerned with the way the Town is going. Thinks vandalism and damage to personal property needs to be checked and kept under control, deteriates the Town. J. Driscoll asked if he had a chance see the results of the survey the Committee completed. Mr. Sacenti said that the Executive Secretary sent him a copy, overall was what he had expected to see. J. Driscoll mentioned that he has known Mr. Sacenti and thinks that he would bring a unique perspective from a business point of view.
APPOINTMENTS:
9:00 P.M. - STEVEN HOULE
J. Driscoll mentioned the delemer the Town is in and appreciates that Mr. Houle can help out; his qualifications speak for them self. Mr. Houle told the Selectmen that he spent twenty years in the Air Force and then moved into the private sector. Mr. Houle is a retired Building Inspector for the Town of Ludlow. Presently teaches at STICC on Wednesday nights also is a member of the Home Builders Association, and is Chairman of the Scholarship Committee.
Executive Secretary said that he has spoken with the director of Hampden County Retirement and according to the situation this would qualify as an exemption; meaning the Mr. Houle could suspend his retirement benefits until the return of our Building Commissioner. J. Townshend said that Dan Hellyer spoke highly of Mr. Houle and the Town is fortunate to have him.
J. Driscoll entertained a motion to appoint Steven Houle as the Acting Building Inspector,
J. Villamaino so moved, J. Townshend seconded. There was no further discussion. All were in favor. Motion passed unanimously.
J. Villamaino made motion that Richard Brady be appointed to the Public Safety Committee,
J. Townshend seconded motion. There was no further discussion. All were in favor. Motion passed unanimously.
J. Driscoll entertained motion, J. Villamaino made motion to appoint John O’Neil to the Public Safety Committee, J. Townshend seconded. There was no further discussion. All were in favor. Motion passed unanimously.
J. Driscoll entertained a motion to appoint Craig Tedeschi and Michael Sacenti as Alternate Members of the Public Safety Committee, so moved by J. Villamaino, J. Townshend seconded, for discussion J. Driscoll mentioned that both Conservation and Public Safety Committee have never had the fortune of so many qualified people apply for these positions and are glad they could all be used on this committee. There was no further discussion. All were in favor. Motion passed unanimously.
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Appointments continued
9:30 P.M. - MANUAL
COELHO, CLUB MEADOWS
Present were Manual Coelho, owner of The Meadows and Attorney Jack Silva, Counsel for
Mr. Coelho, Police Chief, and Sgt. Dalessio. The discussion was regarding the incident which occurred on Sunday morning January 28, 2007, when the police department was dispatched to The Meadows because of the alarm going off. When arriving at 2:23 am, it was noted that two members of the band that played that night were downstairs locked inside the establishment. The concern of the Police Chief was that the response of Mr. Coelho at the scene saying …… he blamed the incident on intoxication. The Police Chief was concerned that the bartenders were serving patrons to that level.
The discussion was reverted to how the downstairs bar area where the two band member were locked in could be secured. J. Villamaino said that the Police Chief and the officers are an excellent resource to follow. The recommendations from the Police Chief was to have
Sgt. Jeffrey Dalessio contact Mr. Coelho go over some ideas with him to try to resolve the problem.
J. Driscoll entertained a motion to have the police department meet with the owner to secure all the alcohol downstairs and ask him to require certification of all his alcohol servers either "CUPS" or equivalent certification and return the certifications to the Selectmen. The motion was moved by J. Villamaino, J. Townshend seconded the motion. All were in favor. There was no further discussion. Motion passed.
9:40 P.M. - POLICE
CHIEF
The Selectmen agreed with the Police Chief to have the various vendors wishing to do business with Town employees, i.e., AFLAC, Prior Insurance, Colonial Insurance and potentially others, provide a poster which would be posted advising the employees of optional items. This would allow the employee to contact the company directly if interested for employees who are unable to make the meeting dates and times.
The Police Chief mentioned that he was informed by Joseph Brow, owner, Roadside Towing that he was no longer able to be in the tow rotation as a tower for the Police Department and is transferring his equipment to Mascaro's Towing out of Springfield. The Chief contacted the department of Telecommunications which oversees the towing operations and was told that Macaro's cannot use same name, to different entities. Town Counsel said that if the Department could get by with just two vendors and to be fair with the concerns of Bach Towing who spoke earlier asking to have the proper procedure followed, than wait until June 1st when the contracts expire. The issue was tabled until June.
J. Driscoll made motion to approve the minutes and the executive session, of January 2, 2007. The motion was so moved by J. Townshend. J. Driscoll out of necessity seconded motion. All were in favor there was no further discussion, motion passed.
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continued
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
OLD BUSINESS
Clerk of the Board read the letter from Albert Stegemann, District Highway Director regarding the East Longmeadow Redstone Rail Trail Bike path. J. Driscoll said that he has met with Sean Kelley, DPW Project Manager and stated that Mr. Kelley is very up to speed with the project regarding compliances etc. Executive Secretary stated that the correspondence was also forwarded to Sean Kelley. J. Driscoll asked about the status of the Tourism Grant. Executive Secretary said the he has spoken to Sean Kelley and is waiting for his response.
Regarding the letter from Mary Rogeness and the priorities for the upcoming state budget,
J. Villamaino said that getting local aid as soon as possible is always a priority. J. Driscoll said that would like to look into the grant for the Senior Center Community Center renovation, which was successful before, to see if there are any resources available. Also mentioned to look into is the land on Allen Street looking for resources for passive recreation, active ball fields etc., would like them to keep their eye on. J. Townshend said that it should be sold (Allen Street); it’s an expense to the Town. J. Driscoll said he’s not aware that the land is an expense to the Town and is not in favor of selling the resource of that property. Executive Secretary to submit the requests to the representatives along with early notification for local aid as soon as possible.
Regarding the Selectmen and Board of Health draft annual reports submitted by the Executive Secretary, J. Driscoll said that he would meet with the Executive Secretary and review at another time for finalization.
Regarding the sharing of e-mails to the Board members the Executive Secretary was asked to look into setting up all e-mails that are initiated by him were shared amongst every member.
J. Driscoll mentioned that he was not aware of any problems with e-mails. J. Villamaino said that to be prudent it is just a way to keep everyone current. Executive Secretary said that he has had conversation with Acting IT Director and was presented with a proposed matrix. Acting IT Director said that the only way the system could perform in this capacity would/could only be by “auto reply”.
J. Driscoll entertained a motion; J. Villamaino seconded motion to initiate the matrix proposed by the Acting IT Director that e-mails are evenly distributed. All were in favor. There was no further discussion. Motion passed.
It was mentioned by the Executive Secretary the ad for the position of Network Administrator has been placed in The Republican, February 4, 2007 edition of the Sunday paper.
In regards to the IT Director ad to be posted, the Executive Secretary under the request from Board members was asked to find out what the standard policy was for posting for a Department Head position. The ad was posted on Sunday and on Wednesday editions of The Republican along with MMA website. J. Townshend said to broaden horizons and go into “Monster”. There was discussion from Selectman Townshend regarding how long to post for the position. Would like to see a lot of people apply for the job. J. Villamaino said that this should be moved along very quickly and in an effort to be expedient should advertise in the upcoming Sunday and the
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Old Business continued
following Wednesday edition of The Republican. Also advertise on the MMA Website with an expiration date, try to keep within the price range for advertising as in the past; should not exceed $500. J. Dricsoll asked if that was a motion, J. Villamaino said yes, there was no
seconded, out of necessity J. Driscoll seconded motion. There was further discussion from Selectman Townshend stating that this position has been open since December 31, 2006, and believes that this position should be posted for two weeks; reason being that don’t want a situation that someone should be "tipped off" before the job is put in the paper or someone should be interviewed before the ad is posted in the paper. J. Driscoll said glad that Selectman Townshend is now focused and wished he were as focused when asked to post almost a month ago. There was no further discussion. Motion passed 2-1. J. Driscoll will work with Executive Secretary on the finalization of the ad.
NEW BUSINESS
J. Villamaino mentioned that he recently sat in on the School Committee meeting and that the School Committee was asking that the Selectmen change their meeting dates from Tuesday's to Monday’s. J. Driscoll mentioned that he feels that it would be impossible to change at this time. Executive Secretary to send School Committee letter with the Selectmen’s response.
Regarding the request for an annual stipend from Brian Falk,
Chairman Local Emergency Planning Committee, J. Driscoll said the position was
a voluntary one. Selectman Driscoll said
that he appreciates all his hard work and dedication but has no intention of
starting to fund a volunteer position.
J. Villamaino agreed with J. Driscoll. Executive Secretary to send letter thanking Mr.
Falk for his hard work and dedication but unable to subsidize.
The Clerk of the Board read the letter from Robert Spain, Director of Government Relations for Charter Communications regarding the price adjustments to cable products and services. It was so noted by the Selectmen of the price increase, there was no further discussion.
The Board discussed March meeting dates and the decision was to schedule a Selectmen’s meeting on Monday, March 12, 2007 at 6:45 P.M.
There was brief discussion regarding where the Cable Advisory Committee meeting should take place. Executive Secretary mentioned still looking for a room to have a conference call with Attorney Epstein. J. Driscoll said to tentatively notify members of the Cable Advisory Committee.
BOARD OF HEALTH
OLD BUSINESS
Chairman of the Board of Selectmen read the response letter to the DEP from the Health Inspector regarding the requested investigation of disposal/dump site located at 75 Pleasant Street, and the possibility of some debris being disposed of in adjacent wetlands. The report
stated that George Kingston, Conservation Commission and Barbara Brown representative for
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Board of Health continued
Brownstone Gardens were also present. The property is owned by H.A. Car Property. The letter listed the agreed upon resolve between the DEP Health Department and the Conservation Commission.
NEW BUSINESS
J. Driscoll made motion to approve the Massage Therapy License for Elizabeth Salerno, practicing at The Nail Lounge, 217 Shaker Road. Approved by Health Inspector. J. Villamaino so moved, J. Townshend seconded. All were in agreement. There was no further discussion. Motion passed.
MEETINGS/INVITATIONS/REMINDERS
Chairman Driscoll read the meetings/invitations/reminders.
J. Driscoll called on Mr. Kingston asking if he had any further comments and/or recommendations to fill the position on the Conservation Commission. Mr. Kingston said there were two other commission members present and that all the candidates were excellent. Their recommendation would be Ms. Foerster. The area of expertise that she brings is not currently represented on the commission.
J. Driscoll entertained a motion to appoint Colleen Foerster to fill the vacancy on the Conservation Commission, so moved by J. Townshend, J. Villamaino seconded. J. Driscoll added that he agreed that all were great candidates and that Mr. Kingston has the expertise. Executive Secretary to notify the other candidates of the decision and asked them if they would be interested in the Community Preservation Committee. Mr. Kingston also mentioned that the Arts Council is also looking for a member. There was no further discussion. All were in favor. Motion passed.
TOWN COUNSEL:
The Board signed the letter going out to a staff member in the Selectmen's Office regarding the status of sick leave.
The Selectmen signed the letter in response to Central Mass Disposal's request for additional payment from the Town for hazardous waste day 2006.
Executive Secretary mentioned the item that was tabled until Town Counsel was present which was the proposal from Attorney Sheils regarding the Verizon lease. Town Counsel said that there would have to be an RFP to extend the term of the existing lease on the existing tower.
Town Counsel said that DPW should be involved reason being that the land where the new tower is built appears to be under the jurisdiction of the Selectmen and the tower itself is DPW. The Selectmen and the DPW should be in agreement with the modification of the lease and going out to bid. J. Donahue to meet with Attorney Sheils to come up with an acceptable option and in the interim could meet with DPW to see what needs to be done. Could have a draft document by the next meeting.
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Town Counsel continued
J Driscoll entertained a motion to go with the recommendation of Town Counsel; motion as moved by J. Villamaino and seconded by J. Townshend. J. Townshend said that he would like to attend the meeting with the DPW. There was no further discussion. All were in favor motion passed.
J. Driscoll asked if there is a revenue opportunity for the old tower for other cell sites. Town Counsel said that it would depend upon the orientation of the antenna and the other towers that another company might have. Not sure of the logistics of the new tower. Could do an RFP for the old and new towers. Town Counsel said that there was an issue with the neighborhood with the erection of the antenna on the existing water tank and don't know if the position of the neighborhood has changed; something to consider before going out to bid.
J. Driscoll entertained a motion to do simultaneous RFP's for the old tower as well, motion moved by J. Villamaino, J. Townshend second motion. All were if favor. There was no further discussion. Motion passed.
J. Driscoll entertained a motion to adjourn, moved by J. Villamaino, seconded by J. Townshend. All were in favor. Motion passed.
Meeting adjourned at 9:45P. M.
Respectfully submitted by Lorraine Banspach, Assistant Executive Secretary
APPROVED BOARD OF
SELECTMEN MEETING, TUESDAY MAY 8, 2007
_____________________________________________________________________________
Jack Villamaino, Clerk of the Board of Selectmen (Note Clerk of the Board at the time of this meeting).