A meeting convened at 7:40 PM in Town Hall.
Members in attendance: Bothwick, Carr, Croft, Kenney, Martin and Putnam
Members absent: Herbster, Smith, and Swanson
Others present: Town Accountant, Town Administrator, Planning Board Chair and members, and two citizens
Mr. Bothwick presided.
OPERATING BUDGET
Planning Board – The Chairman and members explained the need for a part time planner, and their reasons for not reducing the salary for the contract planner, as suggested by the FinCom.
The Planning Board Chairman agreed to look at raising fees. He suggested that limited commercial development would generate money for the Town.
The consensus of the FinCom recognizes the need, and will consider if this item can be funded this year.
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING WARRANT
Wind Energy Turbine – This article provides greater direction to the Town as to what can be allowed.
Tennis Courts – Mr. Gates, a petitioner, discussed with the FinCom various alternatives to the proposed tennis courts for the school. His main concern is to protect the water wells and not negatively impact the environment. He reported that Essex is expected to build three courts in the future. He suggested that Essex County Club courts be considered for any high school tournament play.
CPC Items- The FinCom consensus is to recommend approval of funds for historic Town records, Chebacco Woods trail restoration, Union Cemetery restoration, and a recreational master plan for open space with conditions that the study review existing space. The Committee would like a comprehensive plan for restoration of Tuck’s Point. There is some short term work that can and should be accomplished by the DPW, according to the Town Administrator.
CAPITAL ITEMS
The Town Administrator reported that the BOS do not favor adding money to the Stabilization Fund. The BOS did not take formal votes at their last meeting.
The FinCom spent some time prioritizing the projects. The police car, mobile data terminals, cell block upgrade, 1996 dump truck replacement, 1996 pickup replacement, fueling station/generator installation, and Lincoln Street well generator are number one priorities. The water meter replacement/technology was prioritized as 1A, along with mosquito control which can be reduced to $20,000 because there is $12,000 in the account.
The new ambulance has been eliminated. The fire station apron and ramp, insulated garage doors, and fire car replacement are not top priorities. The FinCom members agree that the replaced police cruiser can be used for the Fire Chief.
The meeting adjourned at 10:45PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Judith Sabella
Clerk
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