MINUTES
Board of Selectmen Meeting
Tuesday, June 5, 2007, at 6:00 P.M.
Town Hall Hearing Room, 60 Center Square
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Present:
The Chairman of the Board opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC FORUM:
6:00P.M. - Linda Paquette, 22 High Street did not show up for her Public Forum time.
6:05P.M. - Brian Falk and Frank Morrisino, members of the LEPC shared with the Selectmen and the Town of East Longmeadow a reward that the committee received for their full certification in State Emergency Management. Brian Falk, Chairman mentioned that the Town of East Longmeadow is one of three in Hampden County and one of twenty in the Commonwealth to receive this award.
APPOINTMENTS:
6:15 P.M. – AM B CARE AMBULANCE SERVICE
Present for the appointment was Robert Chapdelaine, Chief Operating Officer Am B Care Services; Selectman John Flynn and Selectman Vincent Villamaino from Hampden; Andy Fraser, Chairman, Public Safety Committee.
Mr. Fraser on behalf of the Safety Committee asked Mr. Chapdelaine to clarify the paramedic level service 24/7 with the commitment that paramedic vehicle respond only to emergencies in the two Towns, ending in a hospital emergency room. Am B Care representative said that was exactly what the company would prefer to propose and suggested to look strongly at their paramedic system as presented. Mr. Chapdelaine said that just based on the needs of the citizens of the Town there should be paramedics in the Town at all times.
J. Driscoll asked if the 24/7 was for emergency calls only and is there back-up service.
Mr. Chapdelaine said yes 24/7 for emergency calls only and they would not use that paramedic unit for routine transfer work. Back-up service would consist of additional paramedic units, which are five miles away, Springfield based. It Am B Care's intention to house one or two additional units beyond the paramedic units in Town at all times.
A. Fraser asked about GPS. There are two separate GPS systems, one in the ambulance that shows the ambulance on a screen at the dispatch center and 911 units are dash mounted.
Board of Selectmen Meeting, June 5, 2007
Appointment, AM B Care continued
J. Villamaino asked about location for dispatch. Mr. Chapdelaine said they have been granted approval from the Planning Board for a base to be located at 1 Panama Street. The base could be operational by July 1. J. Villamaino asked about procedure for consistent failure to meet the response time. Mr. Chapdelaine said hopefully that is not the case. Mr. Chapdelaine went on to say that they are involved in the community that they service and immediately address any problems that may arise. There will be up to three ambulances located in East Longmeadow.
Selectman Villamaino from Hampden asked about having an ambulance stationed in the Town of Hampden. Mr. Chapdelaine said Am B Care would love to however the call volume is not there at this time to support itself.
J. Townshend asked if Am B Care would increase the bodily injury per person from one million to three million in the contract. Am B Care agreed.
J. Driscoll asked how AMR is able to come in at zero base fee charge and Am B Care is $45,000. Mr. Chapdelaine could not answer the question.
J. Villamaino asked about employee turnover. Mr. Chapdelaine said that staffing has been great, some of the best people in the region would like to work for them. Am B Care takes patient care very seriously. Have better than 80% of the paramedic staff is still employed with Am B Care.
6:30 P.M. - AMERICAN MEDICAL RESPONSE
Present for the appointment was David Pelletier, General Manager Western Mass., AMR representative; Selectman John Flynn and Selectman Vincent Villamaino from Hampden; Andy Fraser, Chairman, Public Safety Committee.
AMR representative said that the intent of the language was 24/7 for zero dollars.
J. Driscoll asked how AMR was able to come in with a zero dollar amount. Mr. Pelletier related to the Board that they were able to offset the cost because the market has stabilized and AMR is able to increase efficiencies within the operation making it possible to offset the cost. It is important to AMR to maintain the contract with the Town. Regarding backup, AMR said that they generally back up themselves; do have an agreement with the Longmeadow Fire Department should backup be needed. There was some discussion regarding the problem with the backup service from Longmeadow.
It was mentioned that emergencies take priorities over the nursing homes and that CPR training will continue.
J. Villamaino asked about response time and housing. Mr. Pelletier said that mobile posting is currently in place and will respond to either community from that spot. GPS mapping units will be installed within a month of the signing of the contract to aid in the response time.
Board of Selectmen Meeting, June 5, 2007
Appointment, AMR continued
Hampden Selectman Villamaino asked how many other towns AMR service. AMR said that they provide 911 services for Springfield, Holyoke, Pittsfield and Northampton.
J. Townshend asked to change the hold harmless agreement from one million to three million. That was agreed to by AMR.
Industry average for on time response calls varies; national standard is ten minutes or less.
There was further discussion regarding response time.
J. Villamaino asked about turnover for employees/retention rate. AMR had decent retention for 2006; 2007 quarter for Springfield is about 1 ½ %.
7:00 P.M. – PETER
DAGGETT – SKATE BOARD PARK
Peter Daggett an East Longmeadow student came before the Board with ideas for a skate park in East Longmeadow. Peter Daggett mentioned that Pine Knoll would be a good place for one seeing that there was one there before. Mr. Trainer, a parent, spoke about how they could explore the possibility to have this idea come to life. Mr. Trainer wanted permission from the Selectmen to peruse and get feedback from the public. J. Driscoll said that he had spoken with the Planning Board and related to Peter Daggett that the problem is that there is no zone in East Longmeadow for such a structure. The one that was built at Pine Knoll was built illegally.
J. Driscoll said that as a Board could sponsor legislature at a Town Meeting to change that zone, and would be willing to find a spot that would be suitable and ask for the zone change. Selectman Driscoll went on to say the other problem is the funding. Peter Daggett mentioned that a concrete park would cost about $250, 000, $36 dollars per sq. foot, and a prefab, not a favorite of skaters, would cost about $18 per sq. foot, and not as large as a concrete one.
J. Villamaino said that is a very worthwhile endeavor and would be willing to assist. First step would be to change the language at the next Town Meeting and the Selectmen would be willing to assist. Peter Daggett provided a list of signatures that will be sent to the Recreation Director.
There was no action taken on the approval of Board of Selectmen minutes of: March 27, April 11 and April 24, 2007
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
OLD BUSINES
The Board reviewed the resume sent in by Timothy Robertson for the vacant position on the Council on Aging. Executive Secretary will set up an appointment for Mr. Robertson to meet with the Board.
NEW BUSINESS
The Chairman of the Board mentioned that the Town is in search of a Veterans’ Graves Officer, any interested resident is to contact the Selectmen’s Office.
J. Villamaino entertained a motion, J. Townshend seconded, to approve the recommendations of the Police Department to have a "Caution Children" sign erected on Waterman Avenue. There
Board of Selectmen Meeting, June 5, 2007
New Business continued
was no further discussion. All were in favor. Motion passed. DPW will be notified to install sign.
The Board noted the letter from the Fire Chief regarding the retirement of Call Firefighter Joseph Pugliano and thanked him for his years of service to the Town. A certificate will be presented to Firefighter Pugliano at the next Board of Selectmen’s Meeting.
J. Villamaino entertained a motion, J. Townshend seconded, to approve the recommendation of the Police Department for the installation of a mirror at Westwood and Mapleshade. There was no further discussion. All were in favor. Motion passed. DPW will be notified to install sign.
The Selectmen signed the UNICO Citations.
Executive Secretary gave a brief description regarding the correspondence from Governor Patrick in regards to the Municipal Partnership Act. Selectmen will address at a later date.
J. Villamaino entertained a motion, J. Townshend seconded to approve the request from the Cultural Council for a Science Camp (S.L.I.M.E.) to utilize the Little Red School House. There was no further discussion. All were in favor. Motion passed.
J. Villamaino entertained a motion, J. Townshend seconded to approve the request from the Cultural Council to have the Music Together Program utilize the Little Red School House. There was no further discussion. All were in favor. Motion passed.
The Executive Secretary will post notification for two additional Cultural Council Members, as requested by the Cultural Council.
J. Villamaino entertained a motion, J. Townshend seconded to approve a One Day Liquor License (beer & wine), Temporary Food Service Permit and Entertainment as requested by Premier Source Credit Union, in conjunction with their open house on June 19, 2007 from
5pm-7pm. There was no further discussion. All were in favor. Motion passed.
BOARD OF HEALTH
OLD BUSINESS
Executive Secretary brought the Selectmen up to date on a complaint regarding the property located on 106 Maple Street. The Health Agent requested to come before the Board to discuss the issue and recommends if the property does not come into compliance than have the property owner come before the Board.
The Clerk of the Board read the draft letter for the Environmental Services Guide which will require both Selectmen and Board of Public Works signatures. The Executive Secretary reported that the letter would also be going to the Department of Public Works for their review. If approved the letter will go on the inside cover of the new trash recycling booklet which was previously authorized by the Board. J. Driscoll made a suggestion to make reference to the Board of Selectmen acting as agents of the Board of Health.
Board of Selectmen Meeting, June 5, 2007
Board of Health, old business continued
Regarding the e-mail from Nelson Rodriguez, Shaker Pines Lake Association and the beaver issue, the Executive Secretary reported that Sean Kelley (DPW) and had been out to the site recently and it was DPW’s opinion that there was no activity to follow up on. DPW said that an appointment would be set up to meet with a representative from Shaker Pines to re-visit the issue.
It was mentioned that Tom McGowan was interested in conducting NIMS training for the Board of Selectmen. Executive Secretary said that paperwork would need to be signed and returned by September 30th indicating the Town’s compliance. J. Driscoll mentioned to contact Hampden regarding their training, because of time management issues.
NEW BUSINESS
J. Townshend entertained a motion, J. Villamaino seconded, to approve the late renewal for a Massage Therapy License for Johanna Gorton, 34 W. Main Street, Ware to be practicing at Peoples Massage, 145 Shaker Road. There was no further discussion. All were in favor. Motion passed.
J. Townshend entertained a motion; J. Villamaino seconded, to approve the late renewal for a Massage Therapy License for Brian Quardrozzi, 265 New Ludlow Road, Chicopee, to be practicing at Peoples Massage, 145 Shaker Road. There was no further discussion. All were in favor. Motion passed.
CORRESPONDENCE:
Selectman Villamaino mentioned the letter from the Fire Chief regarding the budget and will be addressed at the next Fire Chief’s monthly meeting with the Selectmen.
MEETINGS/INVITATIONS/REMINDERS
Chairman of the Board of Selectmen read the meetings/invitations/reminders.
Executive Secretary to publish sidewalk meeting notice again in the newspaper.
J. Villamaino made motion, J. Townshend second, to recess for five minutes until the next appointment. All were in favor. Motion passed
INTERVIEWS:
SELECTMEN’S OFFICE VACANCY
7:20 P.M. – MAUREEN
McDONALD
Questions are separate and are part of these minutes.
Question #1: Response: Have been working in a temporary capacity for several months and have a good relationship with the staff and have developed a good repore with the Building Inspector, Dan Hellyer and the Temporary Inspector Steve Houle. Friendly office to work in very conducive to good work environment very productive work is interesting and challenging.
Question #2: Response: previously worked in the Town Clerk’s Office, familiar with the different departments in the Town Hall. Prior to East Longmeadow worked for appraisers and is
Board of Selectmen Meeting, June 5, 2007
Interview, Maureen McDonald continued
familiar with working with builders and contractors as far as deadlines and commitments. Have background in communications, worked as a telephone operator.
Question #3: Response: Always worked in a fast paced environment, challenging but up for the task. Regarding deadlines used to working with deadlines and prioritizing, making sure the tasks are done in a timely fashion.
Question #4: Response: Have knowledge of Word and Excel Spreadsheets. Also know the Town’s software program Munis.
Selectman Villamaino asked if there is anything in terms of additional skills, qualifications or comments that the Selectmen should know in conjunction with this position.
7:30 P.M. – DONNA RAU
Question #1: Response: Best candidate for the position because of knowledge and experience with planning and zoning. Able to assist customers with planning and zoning questions if building inspector is not available. Feels confident in assisting when asked about planning and zoning questions as residents/contractors contact the planning office for answers.
Question #2: Response: Able to perform all processing in the computer, Access, Agendas, legal notices, minutes, also keep track of building permits.
Question #3: Response: Currently have to work under deadlines, examples legal notice, hearing notifications, setting up Agendas.
Question #4: Response: Would be an asset to the position, have many years of service with the Town and having experience with Planning and Zoning. Also assisting residents when needed.
7:40 P.M. – LINDA
GERBERT
Question #1: Response: Been with the Town for a total of 16 years.
Question #2: Response: Dedicated worker.
Question #3: Response: Have deadlines in the Clerk’s Office. Deadlines are on a daily basis.
Question #4: Response: Have worked for years at the Town Hall and like working here.
7:50 P.M. – SHERRI
HERRICK
Question #1: Response: Challenging, something different to do. Have been working in the same capacity for 21 years.
Question #2: Response: Have worked in the Department of Public Works and other departments before, Building, Selectmen, Health Departments.
Board of Selectmen Meeting, June 5, 2007
Interview, Sherri Herrick continued
Question #3: Response: Always deadlines in DPW, there are always deadlines have to
multi-task and prioritize.
Question #4: Regarding the last question to be asked, J. Villamaino said that Ms. Herrick’s letter and resume was very thorough no need to add any additional information.
J. Driscoll said that they are very fortunate to have very qualified people and it makes for a very difficult decision. Based on interview and experience Maureen is worth considering.
J. Townshend said truly believe that have great
candidates. Impressed with all the
candidates. Leaning towards
J. Villamaino said that all have an extreme amount of experience especially working in this Town Hall. All are very personable and all have experience with municipal agencies. Ms. McDonald interviewed particularly well; has shown a certain aptitude for this position and having been helping in the Selectmen's Office for an amount of time is the first among equals when it comes to this interview process.
J. Driscoll asked the Executive Secretary if he wanted to contribute but does not want to put him on the spot. Executive Secretary said that the four candidates are qualified for the position but it is the Boards decision.
There was discussion from Selectman Townshend regarding the
candidates and that
J. Driscoll moved that the Board of Selectmen through the Chairman and Town Counsel enter into negotiations with Maureen McDonald for the position. There was no second. Selectman Villamaino second out of necessity. J. Townshend opposed. Motion carried 2-1. J. Townsend changed to abstained. Motion carried 2-0.
J. Villamaino mentioned to post the position in the Clerk’s Office, water & sewer clerk in the same fashion as posted for the Selectmen’s Office position. Town Clerk will be notified to handle the posting. The Board of Selectmen will aid in the interviews. Interviews will be set for Thursday, June 28th at starting at 6:15pm.
TOWN COUNSEL:
OLD BUSINESS
Regarding the placement of the Depot, Town Counsel said if the Town wants to place the Depot on the Rail Trail that would require the approval from transportation and a public hearing.
Town Counsel also mentioned that Town Meeting approval is
needed to accept money from
Board of Selectmen Meeting, June 5, 2007
Town Counsel, old business continued
J. Driscoll, Chairman of the IT Committee gave an update on the GIS/Web parcel information. Selectman Driscoll said that he shared with the IT Committee that it was the Board's opinion to make the information public but will eliminate names for the addresses. J. Driscoll moved that the Board of Selectmen make policy as recommended by the IT Committee that the GIS/Web
policy information eliminate any personal information going forward. J. Townshend seconded. All were in favor. Motion carries.
Executive Secretary presented the draft ad for the abutter's notification relative to standardize the abutter's notification. Town Counsel said the only change added was that any school, hospital or church within 500 feet of the proposed location receive notice which is required for liquor licenses under Chapter 138. J. Villamaino entertained a motion to accept the policy.
J. Townshend seconded. All were in favor. Motion passed.
Executive Secretary wanted clarification regarding new substitute managers in establishments that hold a liquor license and if it would require a public hearing. Town Counsel said that a hearing is required for a new manager but there is no need for a public hearing for substitute managers. The requirement of an assistant or an associate manager is a local regulation adopted by the Town, not mandated to hold a public hearing, but should come before the Board for approval and should have serve safe certification and CORI checked.
Town Counsel said that the correspondence from DPW requesting that the testing schedule of the wells be modified at the Somers Road Landfill was just notification to the Board.
NEW BUSINESS
Regarding the Insurance Advisory Committee Town Counsel said that this is a Committee that by statute 32B of the General Laws is required by the Town to be established upon the adoption of Chapter 32B. Comprised of eight members seven of whom belong to collective bargaining groups or membership of the insurance plan offered by the Town. The eighth member represents the retired employees, that member is appointed by the Board of Selectmen. The other members are appointed by the respective unions. Changes to insurance plans usually come before this group. Executive Secretary said that it was brought to his attention by a member or former member depending the status of the committee and would like to see the committee start meeting again. The representatives will be contacted.
The Clerk of the Board read the street takings into the record and signed the takings to be recorded by Town Counsel.
Executive Secretary said that this was just notification to the Board of the timeline for the new police officers position.
Executive Secretary said that there was a request to the Board from the Dog Officer to allow for a warrant as written asking the Board to re-vote on and sign to submit as a Warrant Article. Town Counsel explained that the article submitted by the Dog Officer was an order issued by the Board of Selectmen as the authority over the control of dogs in the community authorizing the dog officer to pick up any unlicensed or stray dogs that are wandering in the community to be
Board of Selectmen Meeting, June 5, 2007
Town Counsel, new business continued
subject to adoption or euthanasia. Town Counsel said that most communities usually issue this annually to their dog officer. There was further discussion. The request was tabled until the next meeting.
8:30 APPOINTMENT JAMES SHEILS
Attorney Sheils gave an update on the Verizon Lease Agreement and mentioned that the revision to the draft of the document has incorporated all the changes that Town Counsel suggested when Mr. Sheils appeared before the Board in February. The Planning Board and the DPW have signed off. J. Driscoll moved to allow the Chairman to sign the lease but not to be in effect legally until a returned signed copy is received from Verizon. J. Townshend second. All were in favor. Motion passed.
J. Driscoll made motion to adjourn into executive session for topics of discussion of personnel issue, contract negotiations, to return to open session only to adjourn. J. Townshend second. All were in favor by roll call vote. Mr. Driscoll, yes; Mr. Townshend, yes; Mr. Villamaino, yes. Motion passed.
Meeting adjourned at 9:10 P.M.
Minutes respectfully submitted by Lorraine Banspach, Assistant Executive Secretary
APPROVED: BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING, MONDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2007
_____________________________________________________________________________
James Driscoll, Clerk of the Board