===OCR macOS Vision===
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Jill files lint
BOARD OF SELECTMEN
MINUTES
Joseph F. Bilotta Meeting Room, Town Hall
April 19, 2016
The Board of Selectmen met in the Lunenburg Town Hall, Joseph F. Bilotta Meeting Room, as scheduled with
Jamie Toale, Chairman; Robert Ebersole, Vice Chairman; Tom Alonzo, Clerk; Paula Bertram, Member; Phyllis
Luck, Member and Kerry Lafleur, Town Manager
The meeting opened at 7:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Public Comment:
Mr. Toale announced a joint public announcement from Unitil and MassSave that stated residential electric
customers of Unitil in Lunenburg are eligible to receive $30 for recycling an old, working residential (30-70
pint) dehumidifier. This will take place at Devens Regional HHW Center, 9 Cook Street, Devens, on May 7*
from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Mr. Toale announced the Lunenburg Lions Club will be holding a pancake breakfast on Sunday, May 29t from
7:00 to 10:30 a.m. at Eagle House Senior Center with a suggested donation of $5/adults, $3/children with a cap
of $20 per family. He also announced plans for a Memorial Day ceremony in Veteran's Park are underway.
Anyone interested in helping out for this event are welcome to contact the Selectmen's office.
Ms. Luck announced the Massachusetts Department of Revenue tax amnesty program began on April 1st
and
will run through May 315!. The opportunity to catch up on back taxes and avoid penalties is available to both
individuals and businesses. The goal of the tax amnesty program is to bring those taxpayers who have failed to
file returns or have underreported their taxes into compliance. Ms. Luck announced rain barrels and compost
bins are for sale at the DPW between 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Payments can be made with cash
or check. Compost bins are $43 and rain barrels are $56.
Mr. Alonzo announced the local Montachusett Chapter of the Salvation Army Corps is holding a 2016 benefit
auction on Saturday, April 30* from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. It will be televised on FATV and LTV and
streamed live on the Internet at www.redkettleauction.com. You can phone in bids at 978-343-0834. All kinds
of gift certificates, food packages, golf packages, jewelry etc, are up for bidding. You need to preregister at the
website to get a bidding number before participating.
Mr. Ebersole read from the Town Charter, "The Board of Selectmen shall serve as the chief policy-making
agency of the town. The BOS shall be responsible for the formulation and promulgation of policy directives and
guidelines to be followed by all town agencies serving under it and in conjunction with elected multiple
member bodies, to develop and promulgate policy guidelines designed to coordinate the operation of all town
agencies." He stated he brought this up because he has heard from several people about what the Selectmen are
doing. One question was why were we acting as liaisons on various committees. This is part of the reason, so
there is communication. We now have a Town Manager who is responsible for those departments and reports
to us regularly. In the past, the Selectmen were responsible for communicating with town departments such as
the fire and police departments. Therefore we are trying to step up to the higher level policy making process. He
also heard a comment about the Selectmen trying to take over various committees and trying to run the town in
places they shouldn't. We are charged with trying to make sure we coordinate things for policy development.
===PAGE 2===
Debbie and Pete Lincoln, 46 Hemlock Drive, updated the Board on the Uptown Stroll event occuring on
Saturday, May 21" from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It involves four public buildings in the center to which you will be
issued a "Stroll Passport," which if you get it checked off at each of the buildings, you will be entered into a
raffle at the end of the day. We hope to hold it at the lower common with some music hopefully from the High
School. The raffle is for a gift basket donated by Eagle House Supporters that will contain 10 gift certificates
from area businesses. The Lions Club will be holding a tollbooth fundraiser that day so there will be a lot of
people in the center. Elena's Gourmet Grocery, Zeda's and Lunenburg Gifts & Flowers are holding Stroll
specials. The library will be open an extra hour that day. The Historical Society will be hosting how to build a
butterfly feeder event as well as other events. Firefly's BBQ will be serving food. Chris Letarte will be doing
chainsaw sculpting. The Farmers' Market will be open that day. The Lions Club will be selling hamburgers,
cheeseburgers and hot dogs at Eagle House. Eagle House Supporters will be selling snacks and desserts. Inside
there will be vendors and agencies offering various services. Sheriff Lew Evangelidis will have his mobile unit
available for retinal screenings. The Teen Center will be selling maps to the town wide yard sale. There will be
face painting and a number of giveaways. Mr. Lincoln has spoken to Police Chief Marino and an officer will be
available for street crossing. Police canine officer, Jerry, will be around too. The Fire Department will have a
pumper for viewing. The event has a Facebook page, items are posted daily, under Lunenburg Uptown Stroll.
Mr. Lincoln encouraged everyone to please come out and vote on Election Day and then come stroll uptown.
Mr. Alonzo thanked the Lincolns for doing such a great job and bringing their enthusiasm here tonight.
Mark Bursch, newly appointed Chairman of the Lunenburg Water Commission, requested to be on the May 3'd
agenda to discuss the article that proposes bringing the Water District under the Town.
APPOINTMENTS:
Sewer Commission ATM Articles
Carl Luck, Chairman, presented for the Sewer Commission. He recognized the work of the Sewer
Commissioners, Business Manager Barb Lefebvre, DPW Director Jack Rodriquenz, Small Water Systems
Service (systems operator and maintenance contractor, Weston and Sampson (primary engineering consultants)
and the firm of Wright & Pierce (betterment project engineering/special projects). Mr. Luck stated there was a
vacancy on the Sewer Commission.
He referred to their Mission:
• Provide sewer service to areas of need as identified in the 2010 Comprehensive Wastewater
Management Plan (CWMP)
• With approval at Town Meeting, update the CWMP as conditions and needs change
• Assist residents in expanding the sewer system through Betterments or Private Extensions consistent
with the CWMP
• Define and implement regulations, policies, procedures consistent with Lunenburg's needs and State
Law
• Oversee the Management and Operations of the Lunenburg Sewer System and Enterprise Fund to assure
reliable and cost-effective operations with no direct impact to the Lunenburg Town Budget
• Work with the Lunenburg BOS and our neighboring cities, Leominster and Fitchburg, to secure and
maintain Inter-Municipal Agreements (IMA) for wastewater disposal that are fair, reasonable and meet
the needs of the community
Article 21 requests to create an Inflow/Infiltration Stabilization Fund and to raise and appropriate the sum of
$14,520 into the fund.
• As a flow down requirement of our IMA with Leominster, we initiated a fee to be charged at the time
of connection to the sewer system to fund efforts to reduce the amount of "clean" water entering the
system
• The tee is $2.00 per gallon (based on Title V flows)
• As I/I reduction is an important issue from both a cost and environmental point of view, we have
been aggressively pursuing efforts (~$30,000/year)
===PAGE 3===
• In prior years we have spent more on this activity than has been collected in any one year through
these fees
• As such, no money needed to be carried over so a stabilization account was not needed
• This year, due to the timing of our manhole inspection project and a successful grant application for
$30,000, 1s it unlikely that we will be able to spend all of this year's allocation, therefore the need to
now establish an I/l stabilization Fund currently estimated at $14,520
• It is fully expected that the funds will be fully used in 2017 plus additional funding allocated in the
FY 17 Budget Proposal ($30,000)
Ms. Bertram asked if they expect to fully expend the funds in 2017 or always have a balance in that account.
Mr. Luck stated he didn't know; it depends on the timing and what is collected. She questioned the term
stabilization fund and asked if it should be a revolving fund. Ms. Lafleur stated it could be designated as a
stabilization account but reminded that a 2/3rd majority vote at town meeting is required to take funding out of
it. Mr. Luck stated they would probably come to fall town meeting to request to expend the funds. Ms. Bertram
noted that we don't always have a fall town meeting. Ms. Lafleur stated she expected to have a fall town
meeting. Further discussion about revolving versus stabilization funds ensued. Mr. Luck stated at this time the
stabilization fund is the way they will be proceeding.
Motion: R. Ebersole
To recommend approval of Article 21
2nd: P. Bertram
Vote: All in Favor
Article 22 requests to transfer available funds into a Reserve Capacity Stabilization Fund.
• This Stabilization Fund was set up several years ago to assure that fees charged to support future
capacity needs costs like those required in Fitchburg IMA, are kept separate and accountable for this use
only
• These fees, due at connection, are only charged to units that have not been previously Bettered as their
capacity has been reserved via prior IMA agreements
• When Fitchburg completes the work that includes the John Fitch Highway upgrade, we will start paying
part of this debt service as part of the recent IMA with these funds
• We know from growth projections that we will exceed the capacity limit we now have with Leominster
before 2036 and it is highly likely that new capacity will come at additional cost
• Currently we project that we will collect $8,433 in these fees in FY'16 but the final number will be
determined at Town Meeting.
Motion: P. Bertram
To recommend approval of Article 22
2nd: T. Alonzo
Vote: All in Favor
Article 35 requests to update the Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan.
• Original CWMP was finalized and released in 2010 and approved at Town Meeting
• Any changes to the plan require approval at Town Meeting including areas to potentially be sewered,
Sewer Service Area (SSA)
• To date only minor changes to SSA have been proposed and accepted
• Serves as roadmap for all Sewer Commission decisions and actions
• Key Aspects of Plan
• Established methodology to define needs areas resulting in identification and approval of Sewer Service
Area (SSA)
• Provides options for providing service with recommended implementation strategies and costs,
including where to send wastewater for treatment and disposal, Leominster or Fitchburg
• Provides 20 year look ahead for sewer needs based on growth
CWMP: Areas of Proposed Change
• Modify infrastructure plan to send all or designated Needs Areas wastewater to Leominster
• Redirects flow from area 4 (Lower Mass Ave.) and 10F (Mass Ave./ Beal St.) from Fitchburg to
Leominster
• Reduced operating costs due to current rate difference between Leominster and Fitchburg (60%)
===PAGE 4===
• Reduced additional capacity capital costs with Fitchburg to fund John Fitch upgrade
• Consistent with new IMA with Fitchburg
Revised plan does not exceed 2013 IMA capacity to Fitchburg or 151,000 gallons/day through 2036
CWMP: Revised New Extension Cost Estimates
• Cost estimates in current plan are over 6 year old
• Cost models have been updated to reflect current estimating parameters and recent actual quotes for
ongoing Betterments, as well as other projects that Wright Pierce is aware of
• New costs are signiticantly higher with betterment projections in excess of $35,000 before other resident
costs that could range from $11,000 to $16,000 or more for unique situations
• All estimates now also assume full pavement overlay within betterment
• Depending on actual usage of allocated Fitchburg capacity per IMA and cost/ability to purchase
additional capacity from Fitchburg, a major line upgrade of several million dollars might be required to
sewer area 4, Lower Mass Ave.
• Sewer Commission to meet with Wright Pierce next week to better understand cost estimates before
approval of updates
CWMP: Updated Project Cost Estimates
PROJECT DESIGNATION
CAPITAL COST®
PARCEL UNITS
Project A (Areas 6 & 9)
$10,618,000
TOTAL PRESENT
WORTH COST
$13,584,000
318
BETTERMENT
(COST/UNIT)
$34,000
Project B (Area 4)
$10,581,000
$12,164,000
-
New Sewer Users
$7,317,000
110
$67,000
Sewer/PS replacement
Project C (Areas 10, 12
& 15)
$3,264,000
$13,587,000
$16,503,000
285
$48,000
Project D
$6,672,000
$7,582,000
28
1. Costs were completed in February 2016 at an ENR of 10181
CWMP: Other Changes of Note
• Updated to reflect current policy for homeowners to be responsible for ownership, construction and
maintenance of low pressure pump systems on their property
• Inflow and infiltration estimates updated
Based on engineering work and measurements done in last 4 years, new estimates have been included
• Peak I/I flows exceed DEP guidelines in 5 of the 6 sewer areas, hence the focus on I/I reduction and
the I/I fee
• Updated 20 year capacity projections through 2036
• Took into account all ongoing and projected new development from Planning Board
• Assumes all sewer service areas are on line and built out
• Used updated University of Massachusetts Donahue Institute Model with 5% growth verses prior model
of 16% growth
===PAGE 5===
• Projected Capacity needs do not exceed current IMA agreements with Fitchburg
• Total projection in 2036 would require additional capacity from Leominster (796,000 gal./day vs
500,000 available today)
CWMP Recommendations
• The updated CWMP is currently in review by the Sewer Commission
• There will be an open hearing next Tuesday with Wright Pierce where all questions both by Sewer
Commission and public will be discussed
• At the end of this hearing, the Commission will deliberate and vote as to recommendation approval at
Town Meeting or to pass over this article
• We therefore would not expect the BOS to make a recommendation on this article this evening
Motion: R. Ebersole
To make a recommendation at Town Meeting on Article 35
2'd: T. Alonzo
Vote: All in Favor
Article 36 requests to amend Article XXIV of the Town Bylaws, entitled "Sewer Bylaw" by adding Section 9.0,
"Regulation Changes."
• Regulations can have significant impact on residents and business establishments and currently can
happen at any posted open meeting with only a majority vote of the Commission
• This is the case with most town boards/commissions
• This potential issue, and direction, was first identified by the Conservation Commission Chairman as
their regulations can have a big impact on residents' ability to fully utilize their property or the value of
it
• Improve public awareness of and participation in regulation change process
• Better notification via two separate notices in local paper
• Five versus two working day notice of public meeting/hearings
• Make part of bylaw so that changes to the regulation change process would need to come before and be
approved by Town Meeting vote
Regulation Change Process
• Sewer Commission drafts change proposal during regular open meetings
• Schedule a hearing to be held over two televised meetings
• Advertise hearings in local paper at least 5 working days in advance
• Send notices of hearings directly to current grease trap users to encourage participation and input (not
required but good practice when change effects specific users like grease traps)
• After hearing is closed, deliberate and draft final regulation
• Approve changes and publish notice of change in local paper
• New regulation takes effect at the time of publication
UPDATE TO SEWER BYLAW ARTICLE:
• To see if the Town will vote to amend Article XXIV of the Town Bylaws, entitled "Sewer Bylaw," by
adding the following
• Section 9.0 "Regulation Changes"
• "The Sewer Commission will establish a draft of proposed changes during regular, properly posted open
meetings. Once there is consensus on the proposed changes, a formal hearing will be scheduled and will
take place over 2 regularly scheduled meetings. Both hearings will be televised. A notice of the
hearing will be put in a local newspaper at least 5 business days prior to the hearing dates. At the
discretion of the Sewer Commission, the hearing may be continued to the next consecutive open,
regularly scheduled meeting. Once the hearing is closed, the final changes will be drafted and voted on.
The proposed and approved changes will be posted on the Commission's Town website."
===PAGE 6===
Mr. Ebersole stated he supports this article. He thought this ought to be eventually adopted by all boards that
adopt regulations.
Motion: R. Ebersole
To make a recommendation at Town Meeting on Article 36
2": P. Bertram
Vote: All in Favor
Mr. Luck thanked the Board, DPW, Barb Lefebvre and the public before exiting the podium.
The next article presentation was Article 43- to amend General Wetlands Protection Bylaw XXI.
Conservation Commission Chairman Richard Bursch came forward. He stated under Section 2. Jurisdiction,
they are looking to add the following sentence:
"Lands within 100 feet of aforesaid resource areas and within 200 feet of rivers or perennial streams located
within the corporate boundary of Lunenburg shall be protected regardless of the location of the wetland with
respect to municipal corporate boundary. " Right now the bylaw does not have jurisdiction if the wetland itself
is over the town boundary but the buffer zone extends into Lunenburg. This would allow us to apply our bylaw
to buffer zones in Lunenburg. This was on recommendation of our conservation agent, Matt Marro.
The next change is Section 5. Notice of Hearings; we are looking to add "certificate of mail," that would pertain
to notices to abutters. Right now our bylaw only allows written notice by certified/ return receipt mail or hand
delivery and that is expensive. The state does now recognize certificate of mail which makes it more
economical. Another change in this section is as follows in bolded italic, "The Commission shall have authority
to continue the hearing, with the applicant's consent written or granted verbally on the record during the
course of the public hearing or meeting, to a certain date announced at the hearing, for reasons stated at the
hearing, which may include receipt of additional information from the applicant or others deemed necessary by
the Commission in its discretion, or comments and recommendations of boards and officials listed in Section 6.
Mr. Bursch stated the commission cannot continue a hearing without an applicant's consent. The commission is
also changing RFD (request for determination) to RDA (request for determination of applicability).
The next change is under SECTION 7: PERMITS AND CONDITIONS; (CHANGE TO PARAGRAPH 6)
A permit shall expire three years from the date of issuance. Notwithstanding the above, the Commission in its
discretion may issue a permit expiring five years from the date of issuance for recurring or continuous
maintenance work, provided that annual notification of time and location of work is given to the Commission.
(ADD) The Commission may extend a permit or a previous extension for an additional period of no greater
than three years per extension.
This is to realign with state regulations. A question on the line after the italicized section arose; if it was being
deleted. Mr. Bursch confirmed it was. The phrase "any permit may be renewed once for an additional one year
period," should have been deleted but was not.
SECTION 8. REGULATIONS~ After public notice and public hearing, the Commission shall promulgate rules
and regulations to effectuate the purposes of this bylaw. Failure by the Commission to promulgate such rules
and regulations or a legal declaration of their invalidity by a court of law shall not act to suspend or invalidate
the effect of this bylaw.
At a minimum these regulations shall define key terms in this bylaw not inconsistent with the bylaw and
procedures governing the amount and filing of fees. (ADD THE FOLLOWING PARAGRAPH) The
Conservation Commission will establish a draft of proposed changes during regular, properly posted open
meetings. Once there is consensus on the proposed changes, a formal hearing will be scheduled and will take
place over 2 regularly scheduled meetings. Both hearings will be televised. A notice of the hearings will be
put in a local newspaper at least 10 business days prior to the hearing dates. At the discretion of the
Conservation Commission, the hearing may be continued to the next consecutive open, regularly scheduled
meeting. Once the hearing is closed, the final changes will be drafted and voted on. The proposed and
approved changes will be posted on the Commission's Town website.
Mr. Bursch stated they were going to amend 10 business days to 5 business days on the town meeting floor.
===PAGE 7===
Motion: R. Ebersole
To recommend approval of Article 43 as presented
2nd: P. Bertram
Vote: All in Favor
Mr. Bursch wanted the Board to be aware that there is state statute independent of different permissions for
regulation updates. He thanked the Board
Land Use Director Adam Burney presented for the Planning Board ATM articles.
Article 37 and 38 are simple word changes. Article 37 amends the Table of Contents by deleting the words
"Development Plan Review" and inserting the words "Site Plan Approval".
Article 38 corrects the number of districts in Section 3.0, Establishment of Districts (3.1 Types of Districts), by
deleting the word fourteen (14) and inserting the word fifteen (15):
Article 39 amends the Zoning Bylaw, Section 6.0, General Provisions Affecting All Districts, by deleting
Sections 6.1.2 Design of Off Street Parking and Loading Spaces and 6.4.3 Design Requirements and adding a
new Section 6.4.3 Off Street Parking Design Standards.
Discussion about #7, Surfacing and drainage ensued. Ms. Bertram believed recommending concrete or asphalt
was detrimental to best practices of storm water runoff prevention. She believed this goes against what is the
preferred practice. Mr. Burney stated the aim was for a durable, dustless material; packed gravel could be used
or anything that is permeable and inhibits materials from washing into the roads.
Ms. Bertram questioned the prohibition of parking in the front yard. What if someone is holding a party? Mr.
Burney stated this is to protect oil and gas runoff to existing wells and is addressed to long term parking in the
front yard. Mr. Ebersole had a concern with the requirement of the entire length of the driveway having to have
a durable, dustless, all-weather surface. He stated to replace an existing long driveway would be very expensive.
He wanted to see the comparison of what the town had for parking requirements now compared to this proposal.
Ms. Bertram also did not agree with the requirement. Mr. Ebersole also did not agree with screening for
driveways. Mr. Burney believed the intent was for commercial driveways and lots. He will take that back and
clarify with the Planning Board.
Motion: R. Ebersole
To make recommendation on Article 39 at Town Meeting
2nd: P. Bertram
Vote: All in Favor
Article 40 amends the Zoning Bylaw, Section 8.4, Development Plan Review, by deleting the entirety of the
existing wording and inserting a new Section 8.4 Site Plan Approval. Mr. Burney stated the Planning Board is
using a special permit model for the procedure. They used similar criteria to what they have now with a couple
of additions for the use that applies. They added design principles and outlined what the review criteria are
under 8.4.5 Standards for Site Plan Review. The Board is currently working to revise development plan review
rules and regulations. They are reviewing the second draft and are close to final detail. Most of what is in here
are things that are discussed and reviewed currently without being written down anywhere.
Mr. Ebersole commented about 8.4.2.1 Projects Requiring Site Plan Review (f) Any change of use within an
existing building or site. He stated it seemed very broad to him. Mr. Burney stated the Board did include a
waiver revision as far as filing goes. There are going to be instances where the Planning Board is seeing projects
and where there is no need for site plan review. He cited a recent application from WalMart to place an outdoor
sales display. All they did was place racks outside to hang plants, hoses, sprinklers, etc. There was no physical
change yet they had to go through the special permit process. There was no provision for them to get out of the
application process. Mr. Ebersole asked if by changing the use are you going to have to comply with these
requirements. Mr. Burney stated if there is no change to preexisting conditions, then no.
Motion: R. Ebersole
To make recommendation on Article 40 at Town Meeting
2nd: P. Bertram
Vote: All in Favor
Motion; R. Ebersole
To recommend approval of Article 37 and 38
2'°: T. Alonzo
Vote: All in Favor
===PAGE 8===
The Board moved on to Article 41. Agricultural Commission Chairman Jeff Mendoza stated the commission
was looking at what they believe will improve and diversify some of the economic opportunities as Agriculture
becomes more "micro. " The commission wants to make amendments to bring the Lunenburg Protective Bylaw
in conformity with the state.
Article 41 amends the following Town of Lunenburg Protective Bylaw sections as follows (changes are bolded
italic): Under Section 2.0 DEFINITIONS, 2.1.1.16 Farming and Agriculture
a) Farm: A parcel of land as defined by M.G.L. Ch. 40A § 3, used for commercial production of agricultural
products, livestock, (including the keeping of horses), poultry, dairy products, viticulture, horticulture and
floriculture. It includes necessary farm structures and the storage of equipment used.
Mr. Ebersole asked what the current requirements are under zoning regarding keeping horses. Commissioner
Renee Trakimas reported right now we are under "stable" designation which requires 5 acres. The state now
requires only 2 acres for a horse farm. Ms. Bertram asked about the commercial production aspect of horses.
Ms. Trakimas stated horse riding lesson programs, stabling, equine recreation, breeding, summer camps, 4H
programs and pleasure riding.
Mr. Mendoza stated the intent was if someone decides to have farm classification they are actually generating
an income there. Mr. Ebersole stated he wasn't sure the wording "keeping of horses" included everything they
had just stated.
b) Agriculture: Farming as defined by M.G.L. 128 Ch. SIA and Under Section 4.0 USE REGULATIONS,
Remove entire wording in 4.1.3 b) and replace with 4.1.3. b) Farming as defined in Section 2.0 Definitions,
2.1.1.16 Farming and Agriculture and Under Section 5.0 DIMENSIONAL REGULATIONS, 5.1.2.1. Lot
Area, Width, Shape and Frontage, remove the following entire section:
(e) In case of a farm exempted from the provisions of the zoning by Statute, the minimum lot area, width
and frontage requirements shall be in addition to the five acres as required under Massachusetts General
Law Chapter 40A, Section 3 and Chapter 61A. (Submitted by Agricultural Commission)
Discussion ensued about the format of the article. A suggestion was made to present the original version and the
amended version at town meeting so as not to confuse the voters. Another suggestion was made to strike "the
keeping of horse" and define it elsewhere in the bylaw. Mr. Ebersole asked if Town Counsel would know
whether state law classifying a 2 acre parcel as a farm would supersede the town bylaw classification of five
acres. Ms. Bertram was concerned about the number of animals that could be allowed on two acres. Ms.
Trakimas stated there is no limit on the number of animals currently. Mr. Mendoza stated the Board of Health
would regulate that aspect. Mr. Ebersole stated reading the bylaw you have to have the minimum lot size for the
building plus the five acres for the farm. He stated by removing section e, the commission was altering the
zoning requirements for a farm. Mr. Mendoza stated the Planning Board liaison had advised them that the
section was unclear and redundant. He added the last section was tax code referring to Chapter 61A. He added
the reason the state change to the smaller acreage was because of the increase of micro-farming ventures in the
state. Further discussion occurred on the number of animals per acre. Mr. Burney stated livestock is regulated
through the state via annual barn/farm inspections performed by the Animal Inspector. There are housing, feed
and space requirements. It is not a zoning issue. Filing is done through the MA Department of Agriculture.
Motion: R. Ebersole
2"d: P. Bertram
To make recommendation on Article 41 at Town Meeting
Vote: All in Favor
INTERVIEWS/APPOINTMENTS/ RE-APPOINTMENTS/ RESIGNATIONS
Architectural Preservation District Commission-Matthew Kehrer, 311 Pleasant Street, presented to request
to be appointed to the commission. Mr. Kehrer stated he just moved to town last fall. He is a construction
superintendent with historical renovation experience. He wanted to get involved. The Board thanked him for
coming forward. Mr. Toale stated Mr. Kehrer qualifies for the last vacant seat; the term expires June 30, 2019.
Motion: R. Ebersole
2^%: P. Bertram
To appoint Matthew Kehrer to the APDC with term to expire June 30, 2019
Vote: All in Favor
===PAGE 9===
Mr. Toale recognized Greg Bittner, 129 Pleasant Street, who has applied to be appointed to the Green
Community Task Force. Mr. Bittner stated he was elected to the Planning Board a year ago and is their liaison
to the Green Community Task Force. He has been attending their meetings and they have had difficulty in
getting quorums. He felt his participation is needed so they can use the grant funds to do good things for the
town. He is looking forward to helping them fulfill their goals.
Motion: P. Bertram
2°°: T. Alonzo
To appoint Greg Bittner to the Green Community Task Force
Vote: All in Favor
Animal Inspector Nomination
Ms. Lafluer reported that on an annual basis the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR)
requests the Board to nominate for state approval an Animal Inspector for the town. Two main duties of the
Animal Inspector are 1) to perform barn inspections in town and 2) to deal with rabies control issues. She did
verify with MDAR that all reports of the Animal Inspector are up to date and in good standing. Ms. Lafleur
reported Ms. Comeau who also serves as the Animal Control Officer for Lunenburg, has informed her that she
intends to retire from the ACO position at the end of this fiscal year. She will stay on until the Town finds a
replacement. She is interested in contining to provide animal shelter and quarantine services to the Town on a
contract basis and remaining the Animal Inspector.
Motion: T. Alonzo
2n°: P. Luck
That the Board approve Town Manager's recommendation to nominate Kathleen Comeau as Animal
Inspector
Discussion: Mr. Ebersole stated he would be voting against this. He was contacted by two farms who stated the
barn inspections were done by telephone and not in person. If she is approved, he hoped there would be some
discussion about how that is handled in the future. Ms. Bertram stated this was concerning to her and she hoped
the Town Manager would have a conversation with the Animal Inspector. Ms. Lafleur stated she did contact the
state and was told the inspections were done in accordance with their requirements. If she could have the name
of the complainants she would be happy to follow up with them directly. Mr. Ebersole stated he could not do
that because they are afraid of reprisal. Ms. Lafleur stated then all she could do is contact the agency that
oversees the Animal Inspector's work. Mr. Ebersole stated Ms. Lafleur could discuss with the Animal Inspector
the dates that she actually went out to inspect. Ms. Bertram agreed with that but added perhaps understanding
the process of how the barn inspections take place would be helpful to the Board. Based on the fact that the barn
book was submitted to the state and Town Manager's recommendation, she did not have a problem with the
nomination. Mr. Alonzo asked if state law requires the barn inspections, but we can't see them because they are
not public documents, how do we know the person in this position is doing the job? Ms. Lafleur stated she
would follow up and find out how the inspections are conducted. Mr. Toale asked if the group wanted to go
forward with the motion. Ms. Luck believed the Board should hold off. Mr. Alonzo stated if people aren't
willing to make a formal complaint, by definition, it is hearsay. He didn't want to hold up a nomination due to
that. Ms. Bertram agreed but stated going forward the Board needs to know the process and criteria. Mr.
Ebersole stated we need to do the same for kennel inspections when we get to the Animal Control Officer
process. Similar situations have happened with that one.
Vote: 3 in favor, 2 against
CURRENT BUSINESS
1. Teacher, School Nurse and Bus Driver Appreciation Days
Mr. Toale read aloud each of the resolutions.
The first was for Teacher Appreciation week; May 2- 6, 2016.
Motion: P. Bertram
2nd. T. Alonzo
To authorize the Chair to sign the resolution recognizing Teacher Appreciation Week May 2-6,
2016
Vote: All in Favor
The second was for School Bus Driver Appreciation Day; May 2, 2016.
Motion: T. Alonzo
2nd. P. Luck
To adopt the resolution honoring the school bus drivers of the district and authorize the Chair to
sign
Vote: All in Favor
===PAGE 10===
The final resolution was for School Nurse Appreciation Day; May 11, 2016.
Motion: T. Alonzo
2"d: P. Bertram
To adopt the resolution honoring School Nurses and authorize the Chair to sign the resolution
Vote: All in Favor
Mr. Toale expressed congratulations to all the hard working teachers, school nurses and bus drivers.
Minutes/ Warrants/ Action File Issues
Minutes of March 22, 2016 were approved.
The Board signed an accounts payable (school construction) warrant in the amount of $1,215,739.87; an
accounts payable warrant in the amount of $104,606.27; a payroll warrant in the amount of $683,012.49 and a
deductions warrant in the amount of $160,197.23.
Committee Reports:
Mr. Ebersole reported the Sewer Commission is holding a public hearing on the 26" for grease trap regulation
changes, sewer bylaw regulation changes and the Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan update.
Mr. Alonzo reported the next Cable Advisory meeting will be in June. School Building Committee met last
week to go over the latest overview of the school construction. Everything is proceeding right on time.
Ms. Bertram received an email from Brad Harris of MRPC stating MASSDOT wanted to push the Summer
Street construction project off until 2018. There are concerns about rights of way (temporary and permanent
easements) on Summer Street. The MPO meeting is tomorrow and she is sure one of the items will be the start
of the review of the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). There could be a lively conversation
concerning Summer Street. Any information she can get prior to the meeting would be helpful. Ms. Lafleur
reported the town was right on track on its timetable. What was concerning to her was the inference that the
town was not meeting their timetables, which is not true. Town meeting has an article to give the Board
permission to acquire the easements. If approved, the town will go forward in the process of acquiring the
easements. We can't do that until the environmental review of the project is completed. That should be
completed over the summer. An appraisal will be required and the appraiser needs to have the environmental
review results to do it. Ms. Bertram stated she would attempt to keep the project in the 2017 TIP. She added if
Ms. Lafleur, DPW Director Rodriquenz and the project engineer could attend that meeting also, it would be
helpful.
Ms. Luck reported School Committee will meet tomorrow night. Zoning Board of Appeals will meet the 27"
MART Advisory met this morning. Ms. Lafleur and Ms. Luck both attended. The Board approved a 2%
increase in salary. Their pay had been frozen for two years. They authorized a new retirement plan for
employees which is subject to annual review and adjustments. There was a vote to accept an ambubus. It is to
be used for transporting injured people in times of emergency. There are several that the state is distributing to
each district and they can be used for emergency situation drills. It will cost under $10,000 per year for
maintenance and housing. It was voted affirmatively to authorize that. Another item was that towns are going to
have to insure their COA MART vans starting in 2017, but there is opportunity for reimbursement from
MART.
The Storm Water Task Force has met twice since her last report. Sara Cammer and Ms. Luck met with Jane
Pierce, Mass DEP 319 Program Coordinator. Ms. Luck attended a Proposals for Cleaner Water grant writing
workshop sponsored by DEP. Matt Allison, Adam Burney and Ms. Luck visited Leominster to look at their
stormwater remedies and other work around storm water. Leominster provided them a copy of their stormwater
and erosion control regulations. The Storm Water Task Force is planning a small community clean up day for
May 14". They are planning to bring a rain barrel and compost bin to town meeting so people can see them.
They voted to join the Massachusetts Watershed Coalition as a river protector. The membership fee is $100.
They also voted to join the Central Mass Storm Water Coalition. They will bring their request to join this on
May 10™.
". Their next meeting is April 28"i
===PAGE 11===
Town Manager Report
Ms. Lafleur directed the Board to the 3'd Quarter Financial Report prepared by Finance Director Karen Brochu.
Revenues collected to date are 77.10% of FY16 estimates; $26,773,495.73. Local receipts collected are at
91.50% of the fY16 estimates. Several categories are running over target; motor vehicle excise tax, local
option meals tax (68.30%) and investment income. All estimates are at or above target with the exception of
Licenses and Permits. This should pick up with building projects beginning. The other area of concern is the
Meadow Woods water betterment; to date nothing has been received. There is a potential sale of that property
and through the sale any back payments/betterments would be cleared. This needs to be watched. The property
is still under receivership. Taxes are running slightly higher, state aid should be received by the end of the year.
Expenditures are at 70.9%. To date there has been no draw from the Reserve Fund. The available balance is
$89,116. We will probably be looking to draw from that at town meeting to pay for the market analysis and for
a supplemental appropriation for legal expenses. Town Reports are running higher, there will be a small deficit,
but it can be covered from other appropriations within the General Government Unclassified. Wiring Inspector
Will require an additional appropriation of $7,200. This is estimated in the budget process on what we think will
be expended. We expect to have a $5,600 surplus in principal and interest loans and about $10,000 in
interest/loans appropriation. There were no unemployment compensation claims this year, so we expect $10,000
o remain in there at the end of the year. Veterans' Benefits has appeared to level off. We expect to have
surplus of $15,000 at the end of the year. We also expect to have a slight surplus in liability insurance.
We expect to have a surplus in Health Insurance of around $80,000. Our enrollment is a little bit less than
expected. Overall FY' 16 is looking good, we should have more free cash than last year.
Mr. Toale announced the next meeting is May 3*d, where the remainder of the ATM articles should be covered.
Motion: P. Bertram
To adjourn the meeting at 9:43 p.m.
2"d:R. Ebersole
Vote: All in Favor
Respectfully submitted,
blaine
ne M. Peterso
In Pitcase
Executive Assistant to the Town Manager