December 7, 2009
Present was James C. Lehan, Robert J. Garrity, James M. Tomaszewski and Jack Hathaway, Town Administrator.
Jim Lehan opened the meeting at 7 p.m. Jack Hathaway read the agenda.
NORFOLK AUTO, 38 Main Street – CLASS III HEARING
Present was Kevin Roche, representing Norfolk Auto.
Jim Lehan opened the public hearing and noted that this was an annual hearing on the Class III license of Norfolk Auto as required by law.
The Board noted that Norfolk Auto has been in compliance of the license, and that no abutters were present. The Board has received no complaints, noted no violations, and there were no comments from the Building Commissioner.
Jim Tomaszewski moved to approve the Class III license for Norfolk Auto for 2010. Rob Garrity seconded, and it was so voted.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
Present were Bob Nicodemus and Walter Byron, EDC members.
Bob Nicodemus told the Board they wanted to give a first hand report and progress on the Southwood property. The property has unknown characteristics that are making them nervous. He is looking into grant money for unknown contamination. The deadline is February 10th. HUD grant may be something they could potentially acquire. The only commitment that involves the town is the HUD grant application. Southwood is okay with grants, but not okay with loans. Rob suggested checking the ZBA files regarding this issue.
The Board asked if we were to apply, are we liable for the contamination? Bob said he is not sure yet. The Board told him that is critical – we do not want to indirectly become liable.
ACTION ITEMS
Rob Garrity moved to approve a stop sign on Pennacook Street at the intersection of Chicatabut Avenue. Jim Tomaszewski seconded, and it was so voted.
Jim Tomaszewski moved to approve the foregoing Conservation Restriction to the Massachusetts Audubon Society from John and Janet Fuller, 97 North Street, as being in the public interest pursuant to M.G.L. chapter 184, Sections 31-33. Rob Garrity seconded, and it was so voted.
Rob Garrity moved to extend the hours on New Year’s Eve to 2 a.m. for liquor license establishments; Eagle Brook Saloon, Horse ‘N Carriage Restaurant, and Guido’s Restaurant. Jim Tomaszewski seconded, and it was so voted.
OLD BUSINESS
Jack told the Board he is working on Comcast negotiations. He is working on the INET and hopefully will have something for the Board at their next meeting.
Jack told the Board they are sending 3rd notice letters to residents with a water leak and we will shut off the water in 30 days. We want to know their plans and try to work with them. We have to track all our water per DEP requirements.
Jack reported that Police negotiations are ongoing.
Jack mentioned a letter regarding prison funds cut. No one was notified prior to this happening – even our reps and senators were unaware. Everyone is frustrated and trying to get it reinstated. Jack showed the budget as prison mitigation and 9C cuts work.
Jack Hathaway will work with board members and schedule a weekly work session. All 3 members will work on the budget. Jim L. and Jim T. will work on organizational planning. Jim T. and Rob will work on policies and grants.
NEW BUSINESS
Rob Garrity moved to appoint Jim Tomaszewski to the Design Review Coordinating Committee. Jim Lehan seconded, and it was voted by Rob Garrity and Jim Lehan. Jim Tomaszewski abstained from voting.
Jack reported that as Fire Marshal for the town, he and Chief Bushnell conducted a hearing for 3 teens that had a campfire near Bush Pond. The initial fee was $100, but after the hearing, he reduced the fine to $25 each. All fees go into a training budget for the Fire Department.
Jack reported that a house was moved on Leland Road. The house will be done by Habitat for Humanity.
Jack said they are working on the tax rate. They are hoping for a preliminary tax rate for the end of December. If we have to make 9C cuts, we may need to have a town meeting to set the tax rate.
At 8:23 p.m. being no further business, Rob Garrity moved to adjourn the meeting. Jim Tomaszewski seconded, and it was so voted.
This is a true and accurate report of the Selectmen’s Meeting of December 7, 2009.
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James M. Tomaszewski, Clerk
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