# finance-committee — 33 documents, concatenated for reading and search # # This is a CONVENIENCE BUNDLE, not a source. Every document below is # published separately and byte-identically; cite the individual file, # whose path is given in each header, rather than this bundle. # Index of all boards: https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/minutes/INDEX.txt # The town's own scanned original is linked per document. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-04-05-minutes-2347.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-04-05 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-04-05-minutes-2347.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_04052012-2347 ======================================================================================== ===OCR macOS Vision=== ===PAGE 1=== Town of Lunenburg Finance Committee: Mark Erickson, Chairman Brian Laffond, Vice-Chairman Martha McDonald, Secretary Barbara Reynolds John Male Scott Gile 6/14/12 17 Main Street, P.O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462-0135 978.582.4139 FAX 978.582.4148 Lunenburg Finance Committee Minutes April 5, 2012 RECEIVED & FILED JUN 15 2012 LUNENBURG TOWN CLERK OFFICE Location: Present: Also Present: Town Hall Martha McDonald, Mark Erickson, John Male, Barbara Reynolds, Scott Gile, Brian Laffond Kerry Speidel 1) Meeting called to order by the Chairman at 7:03 PM 2) Public Hearing opened - Town Manager presented Proposed Annual Budget FY 2013 as presented to the BOS on 3/13/12 HANDOUT - BL made motion to close Public Hearing, BR seconded, all approved 3) Review Warrant Articles • STM Article 1 - hold • STM Article 2 - do not plan to use • STM Article 3 - hold • STM Article 4 - housekeeping item; monies not borrowed or expended; BR motions to recommend approval, BL seconded, all approved 6-0 • STM Article 5 - Police Contract - may not be ready by Town Meeting • STM Article 6 - Firefighters Contract - settlement in hand and funding set aside in reserve ATM Article 1 - Ambulance Revolving Fund ATM Article 2 - Timber Rights Revolving Fund • ATM Article 3 - Custodial Revolving Fund ATM Article 4 - Greenthumb Revolving Fund • ATM Article 5 - Library Revolving Fund • ATM Article 6 - Council on Aging Transportation Fund • IM made motion to recommend approval of Revolving Fund articles 1-6 (none have increased over prior year), SG seconded, all in favor, 6-0 • ATM Article 7 - no financial impact • ATM Article 8 - Town Manager Recommended Budget - JM made motion to recommend approval in the amount of $27,453,841, BR seconded, all approved 6-0 • ATM Article 9 - Override - BL made motion to recommend approval, BR seconded, all approved 6-0 • ATM Article 10 - School Feasibility Study - SG made motion to recommend approval, BR seconded, voted approval of 5-1 (BL voted against) • ATM Article 11 - Public Employees Contract - negotiations underway • ATM Article 12 - Water Department - JM made motion to recommend approval, BL seconded, all in favor 6-0 • ATM Article 13 - Solid Waste - level funded - BR made motion to recommend approval in the amount of $285K, BL seconded, all in favor 6-0 • ATM Article 14 - Sewer Enterprise Fund - BL made motion to recommend approval in the amount of $643,726, MM seconded, SG abstained, 5 in favor with one abstention • ATM Article 15 - Capital Plan - BL moves we recommend approval in the amount of $464,487, BR seconded, all approved 6-0 • ATM Article 16 - Do not expect to use • ATM Article 17 - No financial impact ===PAGE 2=== • ATM Article 18 - No financial impact ATM Article 19 - Amendment to the solar by-law; no financial impact ATM Article 20 - Hold ATM Article 21 - Zoning Incentive Stabilization Fund - Hold for amount ATM Article 22 - No financial impact • ATM Article 23 - No financial impact ATM Article 24 - To be withdrawn • ATM Article 25 - No direct financial impact 4) Minutes • Minutes from 12/5/11 reviewed; BR made motion to accept, SG seconded, will revise and revote at a later meeting • Minutes from 3/8 12 reviewed; BL made motion to accept, BR seconded, all approved Future Agenda Items - education on pension plans Next Meeting - April 26 7) Adjournment- BR made motion to adjourn at 9:15 pm, SG seconded, all in favor 6-0 Minutes respectfully submitted by Martha McDonald ===PAGE 3=== Town of Lunenburg Proposed Annual Budget -FY2013 March 13, 2012, Re-presented April 5, 2012 Kerry A. Speidel, Town Manager FY2013 Recommendation • Matching dollars with service level needs, i.e. no "flat" increases • No additional funding for any dept, other than Targeted Funds [Ch. 70] • No funding for Road Management Plan • Huge cuts in many departments • We're done cutting, now we're dismantling 1 ===PAGE 4=== FY2013 Recommendation - Funding to cover all contractual salary increases • Funding to cover all salary increases due SAP employees- implementing new grid • Balanced budget proposal is based upon use of recurring revenues for operating costs, meaning there is NO request for a draw on either Free Cash or the Stabilization Fund FY2013- Revenue Estimates FY2013 Projected Revenues 1% 1% # Property Tax # State Aid Now Growth Prop 22/2 •LocatReceipts a Avaitable Funds • Debt Exclusions 2 ===PAGE 5=== FY2013 Revenue Estimates- State Aid - - • Governor's projection for Ch. 70 • big increase (+$586,714) over current year • Only 145 of 345 districts to receive increased funding • No increase in Lottery - Despite a projected $20M increase • Town has lost $485k in Lottery Aid since FY2009, about 37% FY2013 Revenue Estimates- State Aid $7,000,000 $6,000,000 $5,000,000 $4,000,000 $3,000,000 $2,000,000 $1,000,000 = All Other # Chapter 70 FY2011 3 ===PAGE 6=== kamane Property Tax State Ate Local Receiple Available Funds FY2013- Revenue Estimates Summary FY2310 FY2011 Budget Approved FY2012 Approved Projecte Detes Due tortes facese 26322 2,167,899 $ 2,247,178 $ 2,363,606 $ 2,503,7% $ 2,431,389 2,208,675 S 1,589,665 $ 1,511,930 $ 1,871,910 $ 1/77A1 $ 27,901,470 $ 27,217,813 $ 28,214,950 $ 29,181,024 $ 29,991,573 $ 3030 407% (72,407) -2.89% (391,169) -21.07% 810,529 2.76% • Areas of interest: • House 1 is generally viewed as the base level for State Aid • What will House & Senate Budgets show for State Aid? • New Growth Projection - Approved residential developments Expenditures • Service Provider Organization • Demand for services doesn't decrease due to lack of funding • Town provides services • Services to students • Services to seniors . • Services to residents • Focus on service levels, not employees • Allocating resources- Operating & Capital- to services 4 ===PAGE 7=== Forecast- Projected Deficits, including I "New Tnttves" FY2011 FY2012 FY2013 FY2014 FY2015 FY2037 Revenuc Expenditures Dillerence $ 28,214,950 $ 29,099,638 5 29,650,741 S 30,197,951 S 31,390,630 S 32,300,l40 S 33.228,951 S 28,170,773 S 29,154,557 S 32411,499 S 33,722K3 S 35,206,320 $ 36,665,171 $ 35,301,699 (60,920) S (2,760,758) S (3,229,633) S (3,815,689) 5 (4364,731) S (5.872745) -0.21% 9.31% -10.57% -12.16% -13.51% +15.27% Projestod Desch WE OF CATH POR OUTRO O TEG GAA nort of Delica Atributatlo so increases tn omgeing expans FY13 FY14 FY15 FY1G FY17 $ R.700760) 3 (A224283) 3 (2.015.083) 3 (4.304.731) 5 (5.072,740) :T.0430 18:4035) 1 10840 1 8286401 0200) Expenditures - Department Budgets submitted without "new" initiatives or restoration of prior year cuts • Requested budgets exceeded available revenue by $1,496,304 • Approximately $330k more than projected last Fall 5 ===PAGE 8=== FY2013 Expenditures • Need to cut $1,496,304 - $1,131,040 of deficit "assigned" to School • Soditional Chapter 70 = 3, increase FY12 + • $ 365,264 of deficit "assigned" to Other Departments FY2013 Expenditures : Reduce School Level Service Budget by 51,131,040 Health Insurance Renewal Savings = $133k Reduction in Personnel/ Programs = $850k * Eliminate 2 of 3 Administrative Positions [Director of Instruction & Special Services Coordinator) Eliminate 3+ Special Education Teacher positions Reduce Technology Educator position [shared] Eliminate one 6t Grade Classroom Reduce PE/ Health position Eliminate 2 sections of Horticulture & 9 section of Technology at LHS Reduction in Materials & Supplies = $120k Increased Fees = $97k Athletic Fees School Lunch Program 6 ===PAGE 9=== • FY2013 Expenditures- • Reduce Other Departments by $365,264 • Non-Discretionary/ Less-Discretionary • Debt Service, Insurances, Retirement Assessment • Police, Fire & Ambulance • DPW- some services- plowing • Discretionary • land-some services- road maintenance, upkeep of public • Capital • Library & Senior Center • Administrative & Land Use Offices FY2013 Expenditures- Non-Discretionary • Debt Service • Up $158,542- includes financing for DPW and FY10 & 11 CIP • Than Destoporary financing for School Feasibly Study/ Preliminary • Insurances • No increase in General Liability & Worker's Compensation • Huge increase in Police/ Fire IOD in FY12 [$29k in FY11 to $75k in FY12] • Health Insurance Renewal +5.4% estimate [$76k]; actual 3.55% [$67k]- this is artificially low due to Health Insurance Reform - Retirement Assessment • Increase of $87k, or 14.59%, due to adjustment in method of calculating Annual Assessment 7 ===PAGE 10=== FY2013 Expenditures- Less Discretionary - Police, Fire & DPW essentially level funded • DPW • This has been the "go to" department for "easy" cuts • retrent, at department had 15 FTES, reduced to 10.5 due to • In this same time, we've increased the Snow & Ice Appropriation from about $130k to $250k • Me are are under one compay rece of adequate funding for Road bout shen sere year Maam rapan indicates we need to spend • No further reductions can be made without dismantling the department FY2013 Expenditures- Less Discretionary . • Department of Public Works • Essentially level funded, +$4,366 • This has been the "go to" department for "easy" cuts • In FY2004, the department had 15 FTE's, reduced to 10.5 due to retirements, attrition & layoffs - In this same time, we've increased the Snow & Ice Appropriation from about $130k to $250k • We are already under-funding DPW; lack of adequate funding for Roac Maintenance; Number one complaint receiver • Comprehensive Road Management Plan indicates we need to spend about $1M per year to maintain roads • No further reductions can be made without dismantling the department 8 ===PAGE 11=== FY2013 Expenditures- Department of Public Works 10-Year History of Snow & Ice Account $400,000 $350,000 $300,000 5250,000 $200,000 $150,000 → $100.000 $50,000 FY2002 FY2003 FY2004 FY200S FY2006 FY2007 FY2000 FY2009 FY2010 FY2011 FY2013 Expenditures- Discretionary • Capital Expenditures • BOS Policy: Operating budgets should be set at sustainable levels. The capital budget can vary around a long-term target level. The long-term target level for the capital program is 5% of total expenditures. • 5% of Operational Expenditures = $1,407,256 • CPC Recommendation = $504,387 • TM Recommendation = $464,487 9 ===PAGE 12=== FY2013 Expenditures- Discretionary, Capital Expenditures Capital Plan Part i way Misterse Hort cholo $80D,000 17320 1 18050 15,90 24,00 Total espense $1.2M partinlly funded, Chepter 90 Paid Represent is THMS Gym RoofSnow Guard: Ritter Boilding Front Section of Roo Repait Engice 4 4x4 Pickup Truck with plow 1 Ton Pickup Truck with plow Pickup Truck with plow bile Media Cr frigerator, Oven & Steam Ta at and Repair front of Build MS, Repair Drop Ceili There obe bit it rodeny Maintenance is tie number one proiy, is it cari be included in the dunmal Plan unless FY2013 Expenditures- Discretionary, Senior Center & Library - In past years, these two departments were held harmless - Recognition that during tough times, the service provided can be a "life-saver" • Public access to computers, books, magazines, newspapers • Free or low cost activities • Town can no longer afford to hold harmless - 10% cut to both departments ===PAGE 13=== FY2013 Expenditures- Discretionary, Senior Center, cut $12k • Close Senior Center on 1 day per week * Other Options: * Eliminate Congregate Lunch Program & replace with volunteer program; OR • Reduce Outreach Worker from 19 to 6 hours per week FY2013 Expenditures- Discretionary, Library 10% cut = $34,644 : brary will not meet required spending • Waiver, dispropotonate for a waiver; concern about granting of • If waiver is not granted, the Library will lose State Aid, $12,078 • State aid funds 65% of CWMARS Contract • Librariburg residents will lose the ability to borrow materials from other • Library hours would be cut from 44 to 42; No evening hours for Children's Library : Community use of Library would be limited to operational hours Funding for new materials would be cut 12% 11 ===PAGE 14=== FY2013 Expenditures- Administration & Land Use Offices • Cutting a total of $101,458, or about 7.3% • Staffing Reductions, 15.85 FTE reduced to 13,.45 • Eliminate position of Chief Administrative Assistant in BOS Office - Reduce Technology Assistant to 0.35 FTE • Combine AA positions in BOH & Conservation, reduction of 1.55 FTE to 0.9 - Reduce full-time schedule from 40 to 36 hours per week, hours per weanslate in being open to public less than 36 • ISO Rating downgraded from 4 to 5 FY2013 Expenditures- Conclusions - • Fairest, most equitable distribution of funding • Fully funds all contractual obligations • Balanced based upon use of recurring revenues for operating costs; no draw on Stabilization Fund or Free Cash 12 ===PAGE 15=== FY2013 Expenditures - Conclusions • Great change is proposed and none of it is good • Realigns & downsizes organization in recognition of the fact that without additional revenue, we can't sustain what we have • Hopefully none of this comes as a surprise as this is what was shown in the Financial Forecast Conclusions • Pavorat upon the changes being agents will geo • This will not be viewed as a strategic move, but rather a dismantling of our organization. • Teently upgraded in ye on act on our Bond Rating, which was • Any negative impact to our Bond Rating means our cost t orrow will increase. As we prepare to seek authorization for arge school project, we should be doing everything we can to reserve and bolster our Bond Rating. 13 ===PAGE 16=== • FY2013 Override • Override: a permanent increase to the property tax base. • Goal is to find a "long term" solution - $2.2M will provide a 5-year fix - Hopefully State Aid will be restored during this time • FY2013 Override = $2.2M • $1,131,040 for School Department • $14,325 for Senior Center; $36,600 for Library • $82,040 for Administration & Land Use to restore personnel cuts, except IT Assistant & BOff Conservation AA. Funding for Recording Secretary. • $31,554 OT in Police Department; $5,463 in Fire Department; Call Personnel • $25,000 increase in Reserve Fund • $500k for Pavement Management Program; $50k for Crack Seal • $35k for DPW Laborer • $277,432 remaining to be set aside in new Stabilization Fund 14 ===PAGE 17=== The Override Proposal is a 5-Year Plan Tax Levy Stabilization Fund FY 2023 ГУ 201- 79:3015 FY 3016 EL:01Z Revenue Stroilisatien Fund- Tax Lery Expenditure Stabilization Fund. Tax Lery Total: Revenue Total: Expenditure Net: 32219162 8 32076578 6 20332 8 102400 0395 35210204.3906053 5 403315 8 12430 5 230122 S 31.914152 6 42905725 S 34026813 $ 35.124,509 S 36306577 S 272432 $ 170,650 S 6.704 S ... $ § 32.19161J $ 33.056375 5 34.033.515 S 35.234509 S 36306577 • S • s How does the proposed Override impact me? Estimated Impactof S2.2MOverride to homeowners by AV Single Famlly Residences ARusidences in Range..%of total Impactof Override <5150K $150-199.9k $200-249.9k $250-299.0K $300-349.9k $950-399.9k 5400-449.9%. $450-499,9k $500 - 549.9k $550- 599.9k $600-649.9k $650-699.9% $700 and over 332 9.69%* ≤ $296.15 788 23.019% $$394,87 914 26.69% $$493,59 570 tâ.64% S$592.31 411 12.00% ≤ S602.03 205 5.99% s5789.75 106 3.09% . 5$888.47 59 2.72% s$987,18 18 0,530÷ s$1085.90 0.23%% ≤ $113462 0.1896 55.1283.34 0.03% a20s6 ≤$13BZ.OS = 51382.05 Total: 3425 100.00% Monthiv $ 24.68 $ 32.91 $ 41.13 $ 49.36 $ 57.59 $ 65.81 $ 74.07 $ 82.27 $ 90.49 $ 98.72 $ 106.95 $ 115.17 = $115.17 15 ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-04-26-agenda-2348.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-04-26 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-04-26-agenda-2348.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_04262012-2348 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== NOTICE of FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING on April 26, 2012 7:00 PM Town Hall AGENDA 1. Open meeting 2. Communications • Public Comment • New Communications 3. Review Warrant Articles with Financial Impact (t hose not yet reviewed) 4. Review Minutes – 12/05/11, 3/22/12, 3/27/12, 4/5 /12 5. Committee / Department Reports Capital Planning – Brian Laffond, DPW – Martha McDo nald, Library – Barbara Reynolds, Monty Tech – Barbara Reynolds, Public Safety – Scot t Gile, Service Level Team – Mark Erickson / John Male, Sewer Commission – John Male, Council on Aging – John Male, Schools/School Building/Regionalization – Mark Eric kson, School Reconfiguration – Brian Laffond / Barbara Reynolds 6. Future Agenda Items • Education on Pension Plans 7. Next Meetings • May 5, 2012 9:00 a.m. – LHS – Annual Town Meeting • May 10, 2012 7:00 p.m. – Town Hall – Regularly Sc heduled Meeting 8. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-04-26-minutes-2348.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-04-26 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-04-26-minutes-2348.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_04262012-2348 ======================================================================================== ===OCR macOS Vision=== ===PAGE 1=== Town of Lunenburg Finance Committee: Mark Erickson, Chairman Brian Laffond, Vice-Chairman Martha McDonald, Secretary Barbara Reynolds John Male Scott Gile 17 Main Street, P.O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462-0135 978.582.4139 FAX 978.582.4148 Lunenburg Finance Committee Minutes April 26, 2012 RECEIVED & FILED JUN 15 2012 LUNENBURG TOWN CLERK OFFICE Location: Present: Absent: Also Present: Town Hall John Male Kerry Speidel Mark Erickson, Barbara Reynolds, Scott Gile, Brian Laffond, Martha McDonald 1) Meeting called to order by the Chairman at 7:05 PM 2) Communications - Public Access Television interview of Town Manager by Tim Murphy; letter received from 17 year resident stating full day kindergarten is not mandated, rather a luxury; Public Hearing will be April 30 on solar energy systems; Powers & Sullivan Financial Briefs 3) Review Warrant Articles • STM Article 1 - Prior Year Expense for FY 10 and FY11 of $5,605.98 represents injured-on-duty claims over $50K; $990 difference is a claim to Town of Lunenburg that we will not pay; motion to recommend approval from reserve fund, BR seconded, all approved 5-0 • STM Article 2 - BR made motion to pass over, BL seconded, all in favor 5-0 • STM Article 3 - Discussed but will now be passed over at Town Meeting; BL moved that Fin Com agrees to pass over Article 3, BR seconded, all in favor 5-0 • STM Article 5 - Police Contract - 0/2.5/2.5 cost-of-living estimated to cost approximately $40K for FY 10/11/12 to come out of the salary reserve account • STM Article 6 - Firefighters Contract Years FY12/13/14 at estimated costs of $2,196 with an impact in FY12 of zero • STM Article 7 - Appropriation from Stabilization Fund to cover self-insured unemployment fund; BL made the motion to recommend moving $39K from free cash to fund extraordinary unemployment benefits, BR seconded, all in favor • ATM Article 10 - BR made motion to approve same language as approved by BOS, SG seconded, all approved 5-0 ATM Article 20 - Hold for more information ATM Article 21 - Summer Street project design funds - requesting we use $138,700 from Zoning Incentive Stabilization Fund; BL made motion to recommend transfer $138,700 from Zoning Incentive Stabilization Fund to Summer Street project, BR seconded, all approved 4) Minutes • Revised minutes from 12/5/11 reviewed; SG made motion to accept, BR seconded, all approved • Minutes from 3/22/12 reviewed; BL made motion to accept, SG seconded, all approved 5) Adjournment-BR made motion to adjourn at 9:57 pm, SG seconded, all in favor Minutes respectfully submitted by Martha McDonald n... 1.1 ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-05-05-agenda-2349.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-05-05 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-05-05-agenda-2349.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05052012-2349 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== NOTICE of FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING on May 5, 2012 8:00 AM LHS Room 203 AGENDA 1. Open meeting 2. Review Warrant Articles with Financial Impact (t hose not yet reviewed) 3. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-05-05-minutes-2349.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-05-05 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-05-05-minutes-2349.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_05052012-2349 ======================================================================================== ===OCR macOS Vision=== ===PAGE 1=== Town of Lunenburg Finance Committee: Mark Erickson, Chairman Brian Laffond, Vice-Chairman Martha McDonald, Secretary Barbara Reynolds John Male Scott Gile Lunenburg Finance Committee Minutes May 5, 2012 17 Main Street, P.O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462-0135 978.582.4139 FAX 978.582.4148 RECEIVED & FILED JUN 15 2012 LUNENBURG TOWN CLERK OFFICE Location:: Present: Absent: Lunenburg High School classroom Mark Erickson, Barbara Reynolds, Scott Gile, John Male, Martha McDonald Brian Laffond 1) Meeting called to order by the Chairman at 8:08 AM 2) Review Warrant Articles • ATM Article 9 - BOS meeting on Tuesday night brought to light if stabilization fund is involved in a vote you need 2/3 vote rather than a majority vote; Counsel's advice was to revise Article 9 so $284K goes to reserve fund as spelled out in Motion Sheet; BR moved to recommend approval of Article 9 as written in Motion Sheet 2012 Town Meeting Final Draft dated 5/3/12 (HANDOUT), JM seconded, discussion held, all approved 5-0 •. ATM Article 10 - SG recommended passing over Article 10, BR seconded, all approved 5-0 ATM Article 5 - Police Officers Collective Bargaining - BR recommends approval of rewritten language per Motion Sheet 2012, JM seconded, discussion held, all approved 5-0 • ATM Article 20 - Personal Property - BR moves we recommend as written in the Town Warrant, JM seconded, all in favor 5-0 • ATM Article 12 - DPW Contract - BR recommends we pass over Article 12, SG seconded, all in favor 5-0 3) Adjournment - BR made motion to adjourn at 8:45 AM, SG seconded, all in favor 5-0 Minutes respectfully submitted by Martha McDonald .=.r. ===PAGE 2=== : Special Town Meeting Motion Sheet 2012 Town Meeting Final Draft 05/03/12 D. MATTHEWS ARTICLE 1. I move to transfer the sum of $5,606.98 from Line 13, Reserve Fund, of Article 20 of the May 7, 2011 Annual Town Meeting to fund Prior Year Expenses. [Submitted by the Town Aporetan a 90 or gimen recommend proval, -0. Finance Comile recommends aproval, 5-0, with one member absent, Note: Bills relate back to a Police Officer's Injured-on-Duty Claim. Maximum Benefit under Insurance Policy was reached. Bills for Accountant ilout Town Meting approvaler the December 2011 Special Town Meting. Prior Year Bills anot be paid by the Tow T. ALONZO ARTICLE 2. I move to pass over Article 2. [Submitted by the Town Manager] Board of Selectmen to make recommendation at Town Meeting. Finance Committee recommends approval, 5 - 0, with one member absent Vote requires a simple majority. Note: Any appropriation to the Stabilization Fund will occur as a result of action under Article 10, Annual Town Meeting. E. SUND ARTICLE 3. I move to pass over Article 3. [Submitted by the Town Manager] Board of Selectmen to make recommendation at Town Meeting. Finance Committee recommends approval, 5 - 0 with one member absent. Vote requires a simple majority. Note: There is no need to make any adjustments to the FY2012 Budget which require Town Meeting Action. P. BERTRAM ARTICLE 4. I move to rescind the sum of $833,370.13, the remaining borrowing authorization, from Article 16 of the May 6, 2006 Annual Town Meeting for engineering, permitting, and construction of drinking water and wastewater improvements at Meadow Woods Mobile Home Park. [Submitted by the Town Manager] Board of Selectmen Recommends Approval, 5 - 0. Finance Committee Recommends Approval, 6 - O. Vote requires a simple majority. Note: The full amount of the borrowing authorization was $4,154,298. The actual amount bonded was $2,864,000. Under Article 11 of the December 5, 2011 Special Town Meeting, $456,927.87 of the remaining authorization was rescinded, due to receipt of a grant. The remaining balance of $833,370.13 now also needs to be rescinded. S. DEBETTENCOURT ARTICLE 5. I move to raise and appropriate the sum of $0 dollars to fund the first year of the Police Officers Collective Bargaining Agreement dated July 1, 2010 - June 30, 2013, and to transfer the sum of $24,593 from Line 13A, Salary Reserve Fund, of Article 20 of the May 7, 2011 Annual Town Meeting, to Line 41, Police Department, of Article 20 of the May 7, 2011 Annual Town Meeting, to fund year 2 [FY2012] of the agreement. [Submitted by the Town Manager] Board of Selectmen and Finance Committee to make recommendations at Town Meeting. Vote requires a simple majority. Note: The settlement for Year 1 [FY11] is for a 0% COLA, therefore no additional appropriation is needed. The settlement for Year 2 [FY12] is for a 2.5% COLA. Funding for the anticipated seftlement has been set aside in the FY2012 Salary Reserve Account. This action will move the required funding from the Salary Reserve Account to the Police Department Budget. 1| Page ===PAGE 3=== Motion Sheet 2012 Town Meeting D. MATTHEWS ARTICLE 6. I move to transfer the sum of $5,954 from Line 13A, Salary Reserve Fund, of Article 20 of the May 7, 2011 Annual Town Meeting, to Line 46, Fire Department, to fund the first year of the Lunenburg Professional Firefighters Collective Bargaining Agreement dated July 1, 2011 - June 30, 2014. Submitted by the Town Manager Board of Selectmen Recommends Approval, 5 - 0. Finance Committee recommends approval, 5- Q, with one member absent. Vote requires a simple majority. Vote: The settlement if for a 3 year contract, with an average increase of 2.15% per year. Funding for the anticipated settlement ha een set aside in the FY2012 Salary Reserve Account. This action will move the required funding from the Salary Reserve Accoun to the Fire Department Budget. T. ALONZO ARTICLE 7. I move to transfer from Free Cash the sum of $39,124 to Line 79A, School Unemployment, of Article 20 of the May 7, 2011 Annual Town Meeting, to fund extraordinary Unemployment Benefits incurred as a result of department layoffs in FY10, FY11 or FY12. [Submitted by Town Manager] Board of Sec. Vote maki reso simplial at Town Meeting. Finance Commite recommends approval of 539.24, 5 - O, with one member Note: This request is for an additional FY2012 Appropriation. The source of funding is Free Cash. As of July 1, 2011, Certified Free Cash is $104,113. Annual Town Meeting E. Sund majority. Articles 1 - 6. I move that Articles 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 be passed by consent. Vote requires a simple E. SUND ARTICLE 1. CC I move the Town vote to re-authorize in accordance with MGL Chapter 44, $53E½ the Ambulance Billing revolving fund. The purpose of this fund will be to cover the cost associated with compensating third party advanced life support companies and third party billing companies that contract and supply services to the town. Five per cent (5%) of the total revenue generated by ambulance services rendered and 100% of the revenue generated by Advanced Life Support services rendered shall be deposited into said revolving fund. The proceeds of said Revolving Fund shall be expended by the Fire Department without further appropriation for the sole purpose of reimbursing the aforementioned companies for services rendered to the town; expenditures from the revolving fund may not exceed $50,000 during the fiscal year without the approval of the Board of Selectmen and Finance Committee. Board of Selectmen Recommends Approval, 5 - 0. Finance Committee Recommends Approval, 6 - 0. Vote requires a simple majority. E. SUND ARTICLE 2. I move the Town vote to re-authorize in accordance with MGL Chapter 44, §53E/½ the Timber Rights revolving fund, such fund to be credited with the proceeds of sale by the Conservation Commission of the rights to harvest timber; funds in the account to be expended for the acquisition of 2 | Page ===PAGE 4=== Motion Sheet 2012 Town Meeting land for conservation purposes and associated costs of such acquisitions, including but not limited to appraisals and payment of accrued taxes; such funds may also be expended for improvements on land already under the custody and control of the Conservation Commission; the Conservation Commission may expend such funds without further appropriation; expenditures from the revolving fund may not exceed $5,000 during the fiscal year without the approval of the Board of Selectmen and Finance Committee; or take any other action relative thereto. [Submitted by Board of Selectmen] Board of Selectmen Recommends Approval, 5 - 0. Finance Committee Recommends Approval, 6.- 0. Vote requires a simple majority. E. SUND ARTICLE 3. CC I move the Town vote to re-authorize in accordance with MGL Chapter 44, §53E½, the Custodial Special Detail Revolving Fund, for the purpose of paying special detail salaries for outside functions. Charges and money received from outside organizations in connection with this program are to be deposited in said revolving fund and expended by the Lunenburg School Committee without further appropriation for the sole purpose of paying personnel for hours worked. Said revolving account expenditures shall not exceed $25,000 per year without the approval of the Board of Selectmen and Finance Committee; or take any other action relative thereto. [Submitted by Board of Selectmen] Board of Selectmen Recommends Approval, 5 - 0. Finance Committee Recommends Approval, 6 - 0. Vote requires a simple majority. E. SUND ARTICLE 4. CC I move the Town vote to re-authorize in accordance with MGL Chapter 44, §53E½, the Greenthumb Revolving Fund, to support the Greenthumb Program at Lunenburg High School. Fees, charges, and money received from sales of items in connection with this program are to be deposited in this Revolving Fund Account and expended for the operation of this program by the Lunenburg School Committee without turther appropriation; said revolving account expenditures shall not exceed $10,000 per year without the approval of the Board of Selectmen and Finance Committee; or take any other action relative thereto. [Submitted by Board of Selectmen] Board of Selectmen Recommends Approval, 5 - 0. Finance Committee Recommends Approval, 6 - 0. Vote requires a simple majority. E. SUND ARTICLE 5. CC I move the Town vote to.re-authorize in accordance with MGL Chapter 44, §53E½, the Library Revolving Fund, to receive funds from library fines and penalties, donations and bequests up to $12,000, said funds to be expended by the Trustees of Lunenburg Public Library for the purchase of library and information materials and document information and electronic data delivery. Charges expenditures from the revolving fund may not exceed $12,000 during the fiscal year without the approval of the Board of Selectmen and Finance Committee; or take any other action relative thereto. [Submitted by Board of Selectmen] Board of Selectmen Recommends Approval, 5 - 0. Finance Committee Recommends Approval, 6 - 0. Vote requires a simple majority. E. SUND ARTICLE 6. CC I move the Town vote to re-authorize in accordance with MGL Chapter 44, §53E½, the Council on Aging|Montachusett Area Regional Transit (MART) Elderly Transportation Revolving Fund; the operation of said account shall be conducted by the Council on Aging, and the Senior Center Director; funds in this account shall be spent on the dispatch, operation, maintenance and record keeping of the MART vehicles for the elderly transportation program; all receipts resulting from MART reimbursements shall be credited to this account; said revolving account expenditures shall not exceed $38,000 per year without the prior approval of the Board of Selectmen and the Finance Committee; or take any other action relative thereto. [Submitted by Board of Selectmen] Board of Selectmen Recommends Approval, 5 - O. Finance Committee Recommends Approval, 6 - 0. Vote requires a simple majority. 3 | Page ===PAGE 5=== Motion Sheet 2012 Town Meeting P. BERTRAM ARTICLE 7. I move the Town vote to hear and/ or accept the regular written reports of the Town Officers and Committees.. [Submitted by Board of Selectmen] Board of Selectmen Recommends Approval, 5 - 0. Finance Committee reports no direct financial impact Vote requires a simple majority. S. DEBETTENCOURT ARTICLE 8. I move the Town vote to raise and appropriate $26,562,011, transter $10,872 from Septic Receipts Reserved for Appropriation, transfer $36,858 from the Sewer Enterprise Fund, transfer $781,319 from the Sewer Enterprise Betterment Revenue, transfer $62,781 from the Water Betterment Revenue, to defray the charges and expenses of the Town for Fiscal Year 2013 of $27,453,841, and to fix the salaries and compensation of all elected officials of the Town and any other items included in the budget of the Town Manager, or take any other action relative thereto. [Submitted by the Town Manager] Board of Selectmen Recommends Approval, 5 - 0. Finance Committee Recommends Approval of budget amount of $27,453,841, 6 - 0. Vote requires a simple majority. Note: Town Manager to present Balanced Budget Proposal. D. MATTHEWS ARTICLE 9. I move the Town vote to raise and appropriate the sum of $2,200,000 for the purpose of additional funding to meet the FY2013 Town Manager's Override Budget, and more specifically to increase Line 13, Reserve Fund by $288,432, to increase Line 17, Annual Town Audit by $8,000, to increase Line 20, Selectmen's Administration by $50,752, to increase Line 25, Treasurer's Administration by $7,549, to increase Line 27, Tax Collector's Administration by $4,650, to increase Line 37, Planning Board, by $9,647, to increase Line 39, Conservation Commission by $8,500, to increase Line 41, Police Department, by $31,554, to increase Line 46, Fire Department, by $5,463, to increase Line 53, Building Inspector, by $11,290, to increase Line 51, General Health Expense, by $8,500, to increase Line 62, Highway Labor, by $34,698, to increase Line 64, General Highway Maintenance, by $550,000, to increase Line 74, Council on Aging, by $14,325, to increase Line 79, School Department, by $1,131,040, to increase Line 82, Lunenburg Public Library, by $35,600, for a total appropriation of $2,200,000, such sum contingent upon the approval by the voters of an override of Proposition 2½, so-called. [Submitted by the Board of Selectmen] Board of Selectmen Recommends Approval, 3 - 2. Finance Committee Recommends Approval, 6 - 0. Vote requires a simple majority. Note: Town Manager to present Override Budget Proposal. T. ALONZO ARTICLE 10. I move the Town vote to pass over Article 10. [Submitted by the Town Manager] Vote requires a 2/3rds majority. Note: There is no action to be taken under this article. 4| Page ===PAGE 6=== Motion Sheet 2012 Town Meeting M. MACKIN ARTICLE 11. I move the Town appropriate the amount of $750,000 for the purpose of paying the costs to conduct a feasibility study at the Lunenburg High School, 1079 Massachusetts Avenue, Lunenburg, Massachusetts, including the payment of all costs incidental or related hereto, and for which the Town of Lunenburg may be eligible for a grant from the Massachusetts School Building Authority ("MSBA"), said amount to be expended under the direction of the School Building Committee. To meet this appropriation, $30,000 will be transferred from Article 2 of the May 3, 2008 Annual Town Meeting, and the Treasurer with the approval of the Board of Selectmen is authorized to borrow the balance of $720,000 under and pursuant to M.G.L. Chapter 44, or pursuant to any other enabling authority. The Town of Lunenburg acknowledges that the MSBA's grant program is a non-entitlement, discretionary program based upon need, as determined by the MSBA, and any costs the Town of Lunenburg incurs in excess of any grant approved by and received from the MSBA shall be the sole responsibility of the Town of Lunenburg, and that the amount of borrowing authorized pursuant to this vote shall be reduced by any grant amount set forth in the Feasibility Study Agreement that may be executed between the Town of Lunenburg and the MSBA. [Submitted by the School Building Committee] Board of Selectmen Recommends Approval, 5 - 0. Finance Committee Recommends Approval, 5 - 1. Vote requires a 2/3rds majority. Note: Superintendent Calmes and/ or the School Building Committee will present the proposal. E. SUND ARTICLE 12. I move to pass over Article 12. [Submitted by the Town Manager] Board of Selectmen and Finance Committee to make recommendations at Town Meeting. Vote requires a simple majority. Note: No contract settlement has been reached. P. BERTRAM ARTICLE 13. I move the Town vote to appropriate from Water Enterprise Revenues the sum of $5,000 to operate the Water Department. [Submitted by the Board of Selectmen] Board of Selectmen Recommends Approval, 5 - 0. Finance Committee Recommends Approval, 6 - 0. Vote requires a simple majority. Note: $5,000 is the amount of money needed to fund FY13 Water Department expenses. S. deBETTENCOURT ARTICLE 14. I move the Town vote to appropriate from Solid Waste Disposal Enterprise Revenues the sum of $285,000 to operate the Solid Waste Disposal Program. [Submitted by the Board of Selectmen] Board of Selectmen recommends approval, 5 - 0. Finance Committee recommends approval, 6 - 0. Vote requires a simple majority. Note: $285,000 is the amount of money needed to fund FY13 Pay-As-You-Throw expenses. Program is paid for 100% through user fees. No increase in bag fees is proposed. R. EBERSOLE ARTICLE 15. I move the Town vote to appropriate from Sewer Enterprise Revenues the sum of $570,518 and to appropriate from Sewer Retained Earnings the sum of $73,208, for a total appropriation of $643,726, to operate the Sewer Department. [Submitted by the Sewer Commission] Board of Selmen to make recommendation at Town Meeting. Finance Committe Recommends Approval, 5-0,1 abstaining. Vote requires a Note: Sewer Commission Chair Bob Ebersole to present budget. 5| Page ===PAGE 7=== Motion Sheet 2012 Town Meeting M. BENSON ARTICLE 16. I move the Town vote to raise and appropriate the sum of $439,193 and to transter the sum of $1,789.27 from Article 2 of the November 6, 2001 Special Town Meeting; and $7,112.98 from Article 8 of the October 1, 2002 Special Town Meeting; and $3.99 from Article 21 of the December 5, 2006 Special Town Meeting; $4,875 from Article 7 of the May 5, 2007 Annual Town Meeting; and $2,903.39 from Article 8 of the May 3, 2008 Annual Town Meeting; and $103. 90 from Article 9 of the May 3, 2008 Annual Town Meeting; and $848.64 from Article 7 of the May 2, 2009 Annual Town Meeting; and $3,313.54 from Article 13 of the May 1, 2010 Annual Town Meeting; and $14.29 from Article 2 of the May 1, 2010 Annual Town Meeting; $74.00 from Article 7 of the November 30, 2010 Special Town Meeting; and $4,255.00 from Article 19 of the May 7, 2011 Annual Town Meeting, for a total appropriation of $464,487 to fund the FY13 Capital Plan, as appearing in the Capital Planning Report. [Submitted by the Capital Planning Committee] Board of Selectmen Recommends Approval, 5 - 0. Finance Committee Recommends Approval, 6 - 0. Vote requires a simple majority. Note: Capital Planning Committee to make the presentation. E. BAKAYSA ARTICLE 17.. I move the Town vote to amend the Zoning Bylaw by adding to the current bylaw Section 4.0, entitled "Use Regulations," a new Section entitled Section 4.15, "Solar Energy Systems," as printed in the Lunenburg Planning Board handout dated May 5, 2012. [Submitted by the Planning Board] Board of Selectmen to make recommendation at Town Meeting. Finance Committee reports no direct financial impact Vote requires a 2/3rds Note: Planning Board to make presentation If Article 17 does not pass, or petitioners choose not to pass over the petition article. PETITIONER ARTICLE 18. I move the Town vote to amend the protective bylaw to include a new section with regard to solar energy systems titled Section 4.15 Solar Energy Systems, and to remove section 6.6.7 Solar Energy Systems, as printed in the warrant. Submitted by Petitioners] Board of Selectmen to make recommendation at Town Meeting. Finance Committee reports no direct financial impact Vote requires a 2/3rds majority. Note: Petitioners to make presentation OR If Article 17 passes and the petitioners choose to pass over the petition article. PETITIONER ARTICLE 18. I move to pass over Article 18. [Submitted by Petitioners] Board of Selectmen to make recommendation at Town Meeting. Finance Committee reports no direct financial impact Vote requires a simple majority. 6| Page ===PAGE 8=== Motion Sheet 2012 Town Meeting If Article 17 or 18 passes, make this motion E. BAKAYSA ARTICLE 19. I move the Town vote to delete from the current Section 6.6 in the Zoning Bylaw, Sonina on oin Sag race Comite spong no len had by he late reques a sad of selecten to make Section 6.6.7, entitled "Solar Energy Systems." Note: Planning Board to make presentation D. MATTHEWS ARTICLE 20. I move the Town vote to accept Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 54 of the General Laws of Massachusetts establishing minimum fair cash value of $2,500 for personal property accounts to be taxed. [Submitted by the Board of Assessors] Board of Selectmen to make recommendation at Town Meeting. Finance Committee to make recommendation at Town Meeting. Vote requires a simple majority. Note: Board of Assessors to make presentation T. ALONZO ARTICLE 21. I move the Town vote to appropriate $138,700 from the Zoning Incentive Stabilization Fund to fund the Town's share of the 25% design fee for the reconstruction of Summer Street. [Submitted by the Town Manager] Board of Selectmen to make recommendation at Town Meeting. Finance Committee to make recommendation at Town Meeting. Vote requires a 2/3rds majority. Note: Town Manager to make presentation R. EBERSOLE ARTICLE 22. I move the Town vote to amend Article XXIV(B) of the Town Bylaws, entitled "Lunenburg Sewer Bylaw," by adding the following as a new third paragraph to Section 3.0, "Connection Eligibility": Sewer connections shall be located entirely on the property they are to serve. The connection must enter the property directly from the public way in which the sewer is located. No connections shall be allowed via an easement. A sewer line must remain within the parcel that it serves." [Submitted by the Sewer Commission] Board of Selectmen to make recommendation at Town Meeting. Finance Committee reports no direct financial impact Vote requires a simple majority. Note: Sewer Commission to make presentation P. BERTRAM ARTICLE 23. I move the Town vote to authorize the Board of Selectmen to convey to the owners of the "Jones House" situated at 42 Main Street, and their successors and assigns a non- exclusive, perpetual easement for the purpose of using that portion of the existing driveway in, along and upon those portions of the Town-owned property at 15 Memorial Drive, Lunenburg shown as "Driveway Easement" on a sketch plan on file with the Town Clerk, on such terms and conditions which the Board of Selectmen may determine. [Submitted by the Board of Selectmen] Board of Selectmen Recommends Approval. 5 - 0. Finance Committee reports no direct financial impact Vote requires a simple majority. Note: Town Manager to make presentation 7| Page ===PAGE 9=== Motion Sheet 2012 Town Meeting S. deBETTENCOURT ARTICLE 24. I move to pass over Article 24. [Submitted by the Conservation Commission] Board of Selectmen and Finance Committee to make recommendations at Town Meeting. Vote requires a simple majority. Note: There is no legal authority to establish a revolving fund for this purpose. E. SUND or PACC ARTICLE 25. I move the Town vote to amend Article 25 of the Town Bylaws, entitled "Public Access Cable Committee", as printed in the warrant. [Submitted by the Public Access Cable Committee] Board of Selectmen to make recommendation at Town Meeting. Finance Committee reports no direct financial impact Vote requires a simple majority. Note: PACC to make presentation 8 Page ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-05-10-agenda-2350.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-05-10 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-05-10-agenda-2350.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05102012-2350 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== NOTICE of FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING on May 10, 2012 7:00 PM Town Hall AGENDA 1. Open meeting 2. Communications • Public Comment • New Communications 3. Review Minutes –3/27/12, 4/5/12, 4/26/12, 5/5/12 4. Committee / Department Reports Capital Planning – Brian Laffond, DPW – Martha McDo nald, Library – Barbara Reynolds, Monty Tech – Barbara Reynolds, Public Safety – Scot t Gile, Service Level Team – Mark Erickson / John Male, Sewer Commission – John Male, Council on Aging – John Male, Schools/School Building/Regionalization – Mark Eric kson, School Reconfiguration – Brian Laffond / Barbara Reynolds 5. Annual Town Meeting review 6. Town Manager Updates • Reserve Fund Transfer 7. Future Agenda Items • Education on Pension Plans 8. Next Meetings • May 24, 2012 7:00 p.m. – Town Hall – Regularly Sc heduled Meeting 9. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-05-10-minutes-2350.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-05-10 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-05-10-minutes-2350.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_05102012-2350 ======================================================================================== ===OCR macOS Vision=== ===PAGE 1=== Town of Lunenburg Finance Committee: Mark Erickson, Chairman Brian Laffond, Vice-Chairman Martha McDonald, Secretary Barbara Reynolds John Male Scott Gile Lunenburg Finance Committee Minutes May 10, 2012 DRAFT 17 Main Street, P.O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462-0135 978.582.4139 FAX 978.582.4148 RECEIVED & FILED JUN 15 2012 LUNENBURG TOWN CLERK OFFICE Location: Present: Absent: Attendees: Town Hall Mark Erickson, Brian Laffond, John Male, Barbara Reynolds, Scott Gile, Martha McDonald (Arrived 7:40) Karen Brochu 1) Meeting called to order by the Chairman at 7:02 PM 2) Communications •. 3 Talent Bank forms have been submitted. • Current members' terms are: Mark E and Martha M. appointments are expiring June 30, 2012. • Mark E. will ask to be re-appointed for a full 3 year term. * Martha M. has not decided about asking for re-appointment. • John M. and Barbara R. are appointed until FY2013. Barbara R. indicated she is considering resigning at end of FY2012. • Scott G. and Brian L. are appointed until FY2014. 3) Minutes Review • Minutes of March 27, 2012 were approved 5-0. • Minutes of April 5, April 26, and May 5, 2012 were tabled to re-word recommendations made. 4) Committee / Department Liaison reports: Capital Planning - a request to fund painting of Town Hall was received, off schedule. Will likely be postponed. Sewer Department - 1. The amount of the Town's share of Sewer Start-up expenses (Similar to betterment) was never nailed down. a. The Total Obligation must be calculated - Estimated at $1.2M b. The Town made some transfers to the Sewer Enterprise Fund. That amount must be determined. i. Town Manager, Town Accountant and Sewer Enterprise Admin will meet to finalize. il. There is currently ~$450K in Retained Earnings. 2. Definitions: a. b. C. d. e. Betterment (fee) is the amount owed by property owners at the time of original sewer installation. Privilege Fee is similar to Betterment, but is amount owed by property owners for subsequent access. Connection Fee is the fee to actually connect to the Sewer i. Currently $2000 for Lunenburg Residents. ii. Currently ~$1800 of that goes to Fitchburg or Leominster fees. User Fee is the monthly amount based (on water usage). The Capital fund is maintained to support Capital improvements i. Fitchburg is currently planning improvements to the Treatment Plant as well as the Trunk Line on John Fitch Highway. ii. Lunenburg may want to consider pumping more into Leominster to avoid some of the significant costs that will be incurred by these Capital projects. Page 1 of 2 ===PAGE 2=== ....i • School Building Committee 1. Feasibility Agreement with MSBA is expected on July 25, 2012. Original estimate was mid-May. 2. Target for a Recommendation to Town Meeting is May 2014. • DPW will be holding an Open House at an as-yet-undetermined date. • Public Safety: 1. Chief search is underway for both Fire and Police Plan to cast a wide net, but do have good internal candidates for both. • Library Director has resigned effective May 31, 2012. 1. Trustees will identify a interim replacement, and 2. Undertake a search for a viable candidate. • Monty Tech 1. The School is sending another experiment to the International Space Station: quite an accomplishment. 2. There were 764 applications to enroll, 326 were accepted. Total number of new students is capped at 370. 3. Lunenburg had 37 applicants and 23 acceptances. 5) Annual Town Meeting Review • Scott G. stated that he was impressed by the competence and quality of the individuals who presented at the budget reviews to the Finance Committee. • Martha M. expressed frustration that the current contractual/policy/legal situation leaves many expenses impossible to control. For example: paying for summer unemployment for many school employees, allowing very competent, healthy and young employees to retire with generous benefits paid for in-the-most-part by the Town. 6) Reserve Fund Transfer Recommend approval of a Reserve Fund transfer submitted by the Town Manager of $12,147.50 to Veteran's Benefits. Motion made by Brian L. / seconded by Barbara R. Accepted unanimously: 6-0. 7) Adjournment -SG made a motion to adjourn at 8:37 PM, BR seconded; all in favor: 6-0. Minutes respectfully submitted by Brian P. Laffond Page 2 of 2 ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-06-14-agenda-2325.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-06-14 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-06-14-agenda-2325.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06142012-2325 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== NOTICE of FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING on June 14, 2012 7:00 PM Town Hall AGENDA 1. Open meeting 2. Communications • Public Comment • New Communications 3. FY13 Finance Committee appointments/reappointmen ts 4. Review Minutes – 4/5/12, 4/26/12, 5/5/12, 5/10/1 2 5. Committee / Department Reports Capital Planning – Brian Laffond, DPW – Martha McDo nald, Library – Barbara Reynolds, Monty Tech – Barbara Reynolds, Public Safety – Scot t Gile, Service Level Team – Mark Erickson / John Male, Sewer Commission – John Male, Council on Aging – John Male, Schools/School Building/Regionalization – Mark Eric kson, School Reconfiguration – Brian Laffond / Barbara Reynolds 6. Review election results, override defeat 7. Town Manager Updates 8. Future Agenda Items • Education on Pension Plans • Sewer cost to service town buildings • Process for hiring Police and Fire Chiefs (role of Finance Committee) 9. Next Meetings • June 28, 2012 7:00 p.m. – Town Hall – Regularly S cheduled Meeting 10. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-06-14-minutes-2325.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-06-14 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-06-14-minutes-2325.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_06142012-2325 ======================================================================================== ===OCR macOS Vision=== ===PAGE 1=== Town of Lunenburg BURO.MASS Finance Committee: Mark Erickson, Chairman Brian Laffond, Vice-Chairman Martha McDonald, Secretary Barbara Reynolds John Male Scott Gile 17 Main Street, P.O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462-0135 978.582.4139 FAX 978.582.4148 7/12/12 Lunenburg Finance Committee Minutes June 14, 2012 Location: Present: Absent: Attendees: Town Hall Brian Laffond, Martha McDonald, Mark Erickson, Barbara Reynolds Scott Gile, John Male Kerry Speidel 1) Meeting called to order by the Chairman at 7:02 PM 2) Communications • 2011 Lunenburg Town Report • The Beacon 3) FY13 Finance Committee appointments/reappointments • Introduced new appointments effective 07.01.12 - Jason Smith (one year term); Theresa Birchfield (3 year term); Steve Raboin (2 year term); ME reappointed to three year term • Will reorganize committee offices and liaison assignments at second meeting in July 4) Minutes • Minutes reviewed for 4/5/12; BL made motion to accept; BR seconded; all approved • Minutes reviewed for 4/26/12; BR made motion to accept; BL seconded; all approved • Minutes reviewed for 5/5/12; BR made motion to accept; MM seconded; all approved • Minutes reviewed for 5/10/12; BR made motion to accept; MM seconded; all approved 5) Committee Reports • Schools - last night voted on reconfiguration of school buildings from 4 buildings to 3; TCP will not be used next school year for academic programs • Library - Committee met and they will reduce overall library hours from 44 to 40 hours rather than reducing children's library hours • School Building Committee - enrollment projections from state are considerably lower than projected for grades 6- 12; 780 count vs. 900; looking to hire a project manager 6) Review election results - general discussion stating there was not enough information to successfully inform voters 7) Town Manager Updates • To close out the fiscal year, will not accept P.O.'s after June 15 in order to close the books by July 15 • Will be submitting a reserve fund transfer next meeting to close out expenses from October 2011 storm; $32K overage funded from reserve • Reissued some bonds at a lower rate; will be saving a net of $15k per year and state saves $25k per year; retained our AA credit rating • Town Manager met with Mayor Wong yesterday on a piece of land partially in Lunenburg; land is accessible from Fitchburg so they will provide police, fire, etc. but Lunenburg will receive some tax revenues when developed 8) Future Agenda Items • Discussion on what is our role in the police and fire chief contracts • Would like to schedule Kevin Blanchette to discuss pension plan education 9) Adjournment - BR made a motion to adjourn at 9:09 PM, BL seconded; all in favor Minutes respectfully submitted by Martha McDonald Page 1 of 1 ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-06-28-agenda-2326.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-06-28 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-06-28-agenda-2326.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_06282012-2326 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-06-28-minutes-2326.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-06-28 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-06-28-minutes-2326.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_06282012-2326 ======================================================================================== ===OCR macOS Vision=== ===PAGE 1=== Town of Lunenburg MASS: Finance Committee: Mark Erickson, Chairman Brian Laffond, Vice-Chairman Martha McDonald, Secretary Barbara Reynolds John Male Scott Gile ^ 17 Main Street, P.O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462-0135 978.582.4139 FAX 978.582.4148 Pinion Lunenburg Finance Committee Minutes June 28, 2012 Location: Present: Absent: Attendees: Town Hall Mark Erickson, Brian Laffond, Martha McDonald, Barbara Reynolds, Scott Gile John Male David Matthews, Steve Raboin, David Passios 1) Meeting called to order by the Chairman at 7:01PM 2) Communications a. Annual bill for dues from Assoc. of Town Finance Committees for $103 discussed. We had no representation at the last meeting. 3) Reviewed Meeting Minutes from 6/14/2012. Minutes were mislabeled as 6/28/12, so could not accept till corrected. 4) Committee/ Department Reports a. Public Safety - Patrick Sullivan will be new Fire Chief. Farewell parites for Chiefs to be held in Sept. or Oct. b. Service Level Team - Will be appointing a new member soon c. School Committee/ Reconfiguration - Martha asked about how schools will handle changing enrollment that seems to be resulting for Passios closure/ Prop 2 ½ failure, the answer was it cannot be determined till the Fall. Barbara Reynolds offered to continue to be our liaison with Monty Tech in the future. 5) Town Manager Updates - Kerri was not able to attend 6) Future Agenda Items a. Kevin Blanchette to be invited to speak to a joint meeting of the Selectmen and FinCom on our Pension Plans b. Dissussion on Sewer Commission future meeting to discuss cost to service Town buildings. Also discussed the subject of evaluating Sewer Betterments on same, if they're sold to a private buyer. Steve Raboin suggested a study on Town Center buildings uses and zoning. c. Scott Gile suggested further discussion on costs we have control over vs. costs we have no control over, with the aim of informing the Public of same. 7) Next meeting - 7/12/12, will welcome new members and redo Committee Chairmanship, Committee Assignments. 8) Thanks to Martha McDonald and Barbara Reynolds for their long service to the FinCom. Mark brought a cake, a red velvet cake! Mmmm, thanks for the cake and we'll miss the Ladies! 9) Off the Agenda, Barbara brought in an e-mail from Sen. Jen Flanagan's Office indicating increases of $64,672 in "local aid" from the State, and $697,392 in "chapter 70" funds as well. Selectman Dave Matthews suggested it would be prudent to place these unexpected funds into "free cash" when received, since we often have unexpected increases in expenses/ decreases in revenues to deal with, as the fiscal year proceeds. 10) 8:01PM, SG made a motion to adjourn, seconded by BL.. All in favor. Minutes respectfully submitted by Scott Gile ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-07-12-agenda-2327.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-07-12 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-07-12-agenda-2327.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07122012-2327 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== NOTICE of FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING on July 12, 2012 7:00 PM Town Hall AGENDA 1. Open meeting 2. Reorganize Committee • Election of officers • Committee assignments 3. Communications • Public Comment • New Communications 4. Review Minutes – 6/14/12, 6/28/12 5. Town Manager Updates 6. Open discussion – Brainstorm opportunities for f incom review and debate • Controllable vs non-controllable expense • Discretionary vs non-discretionary expense • Etc. 7. Future Agenda Items • Education on Pension Plans - Kevin Blanchett • Sewer cost to service town buildings 8. Next Meeting • July 26, 2012 7:00 p.m. – Town Hall – Regularly S cheduled Meeting 9. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-07-12-minutes-2327.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-07-12 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-07-12-minutes-2327.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_07122012-2327 ======================================================================================== ===OCR macOS Vision=== ===PAGE 1=== Town of Lunenburg Finance Committee: Mark Erickson, Chairman Brian Laffond, Vice-Chairman Terri Burchfield, Co-Secretary Jason Smith, Co-Secretary John Male Scott Gile Steven Raboin 17 Main Street, P.O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462-0135 978.582.4139 FAX 978.582.4148 Lunenburg Finance Committee Minutes <7/12/12> Location: Present: Town Hall • Erickson, B. Laffond. J. Male, S. Gile, J. Smith, S. Raboin, T. Burchfield 1. Meeting called to order 7:04. 2. Reorganize Finance Committee for FY2013 Mark Erickson nominated for Chairman by JM. Seconded by SG, vote to approve was unanimous. Brian Latfond nominated for Vice-Chairman by JM. Seconded by JS, vote to approve was unanimous. after some discussion regarding the difficulty of participating while keeping minutes, the Committee determined vould be best to have the Secretary position shared. Brian Laffond nominated Terri Burchfield as primary Secretar and Jason Smith as secondary Secretary. Seconded by JM, vote to approve was unanimous. 3. Town committee assignments determined School Building Committee M. Erickson School Committee M. Erickson Monty Tech M. Erickson Capital Planning Committee S. Raboin DPW S. Gile Public Safety J. Smith Library B. Laffond Council on Aging T. Burchfield Sewer Commission J. Male Service Level Team M. Erickson, T. Burchfield The Committee discussed whether a liaison to the Board of Selectmen would make sense. Consensus was that no formal assignment needed to be made. John M. reported on Sewer Commission discussions regarding whether the town is funding its share of debt service as well as operating costs. Mark E. reported on the School Building Committee's timeline to identify the Owner Project Manager (OPM) with interviews expected in September/October. Final approval of the OPM rests with the MSBA. 4. Communications Notice of Public Hearing on Monday July 16" by the Planning Committee regarding the solar energy facility was shared 5. Approval of minutes TB, JS and SR were not members at the time and did not vote. 6/14 minutes BL motioned to approve, ME seconded. Approved 2-0. (JM and SG did not attend) 6/28 minutes 6. BL motioned to approve, ME seconded. Approved 3-0. (JM did not attend) Town Manager update 7. Kerry was unable to attend, but notified Mark E. that she is holding a transfer for Finance Committee approval. Open Discussion Members of the Committee discussed such topics as exploring expenses which are, and are not, controllable by the town, discretionary vs. nondiscretionary expenses, and reviewing properties owned by the town. Steve R. will visit the Planning Board to obtain an inventory of town property and vacant commercial property. The Committee will ask Kerry to revisit her presentation on required costs, nondiscretionary to less discretionary spending, etc. Page 1 of 2 ===PAGE 2=== The Committee would like to benchmark Lunenburg with comparable towns. A standing agenda item to periodically review the topics of real estate inventory, grant writing opportunities, issues of discretionary vs. non discretionary spending will be added. 8. Future items The pension plan training will likely be a joint presentation with the Board of Selectmen. Sewer cost reconciliation on the costs to connect town buildings and debt service. 9. Next meeting Mark E will determine if a meeting on July 26" will be necessary to assist in closing the fiscal year. If the meeting is not necessary, the next meeting will be the 2nd Thursday in August. The agenda will include a report by Steve R. regarding the real estate inventory. 10. SG motioned to adjourn at 9:28. JS seconded, approved 7-0. Minutes respectfully submitted by Terri Burchfield. Page 2 of 2 ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-07-26-agenda-2328.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-07-26 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-07-26-agenda-2328.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_07262012-2328 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== NOTICE of FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING on July 26, 2012 7:00 PM Town Hall AGENDA 1. Open meeting 2. Communications • Public Comment • New Communications 3. Review Minutes – 7/12/12 4. Committee/Department Updates Capital Planning – Steve Raboin; DPW – Scott Giles; Library – Brian Laffond; Public Safety – Jason Smith; Service Level Team – Mark Eri ckson / Terri Burchfield; Sewer Commission – John Male; Council on Aging – Terri Bu rchfield; Schools/School Building/Monty Tech – Mark Erickson 5. FY12 Close Out Items 6. Town Manager Updates 7. Budget Opportunities • Real Estate Inventory 8. Future Agenda Items • Discretionary/Less Discretionary Budget Items • Service Level Benchmarks • Education on Pension Plans - Kevin Blanchett • Sewer cost to service town buildings 9. Next Meeting • August 9, 2012 7:00 p.m. – Town Hall – Regularly Scheduled Meeting 10. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-07-26-minutes-2328.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-07-26 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-07-26-minutes-2328.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_07262012-2328 ======================================================================================== ===OCR macOS Vision=== ===PAGE 1=== Finance Committee: Mark Erickson, Chairman Brian Laffond, Vice-Chairman Terri Burchfield, Co-Secretary Jason Smith, Co-Secretary John Male Scott Gile Steven Raboin Town of Lunenburg URG, Lunenburg, MA 01462-0135 Questinense a 0482035 978.582.4139 FAX 978.582.4148 Lunenburg Finance Committee Minutes 7/26/12 RECEIVED & FILED AUG 1 4 2012 LUNENBURG TOWN CLERK OFFICE Location: Present: Also Present: Town Hall M. Erickson, B. Laffond, S. Gile, J. Smith, S. Raboin, T. Burchfield Kerry Speidel 1. Meeting called to order 7:03. 2. Communications Mark Erickson shared a box of notes and other materials kept by Martha McDonald that the 3 new Committee members will circulate to gain some recent history related to the activities of the Committee. 3. Review minutes of 7/12/2012 SG motioned to approve, JS seconded. Approved 6-0 4. Committee/Department updates ME reviewed progress of School Building Committee moving forward to selection of an Owner Project Manager (OPM). A short list is expected by the end of September with a November 5'* presentation to the MSBA. The time line projects the OPM will be identified by November 6, and the feasibility study can proceed with completion and approvals anticipated by February 2014. The expectation is that the Town will have a debt exclusion override vote ir May 2014. 5. FY12 Close out items Kerry Speidel presented a Reserve Fund transfer request to cover the snow and ice deficit, and an End of Year transfer request from Health Insurance to Central Purchasing. The circumstances regarding the transfers were reviewed. BL motioned to approve the transfer of $32,245.52 from the Reserve Fund to cover the snow and ice deficit. SR seconded. Approved 6-0. SG motioned to approve Chapter 44 Section 33B transfers in the amounts of $220.53 from Treasurer's Administration to Administrative Fee-Loans and $21,152.82 from Health Insurance to Central Purchasing. SR seconded. Approved 6- 0. 6. Town Manager Updates Kevin Blanchett was asked if he would be available on a Thursday evening in September to provide education on Perry wil provide a review of discretionary-less discretionary items sometime in September or later. DPW open house has been scheduled for August 20t*. 7. Real Estate Inventory The list of town owned properties was distributed and plans for some of the unused properties were discussed. A map is being developed which will show where the properties are located. 8. Future items We are still waiting on a sewer cost reconciliation on the costs to connect town buildings and debt service. There may be a grant available for benchmarking that would pay for someone to come in and sort information. 9. Next meeting August 9t if quorum, August 23"d if no quorum for the 9". Agenda will include review of FY12 close. 10. JS motioned to adjourn at 9:11. SR seconded, approved 6-0. Minutes respectfully submitted by Terri Burchfield. Page 1 of 1 ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-08-09-agenda-2329.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-08-09 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-08-09-agenda-2329.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_08092012-2329 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== NOTICE of FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING on August 9, 2012 7:00 PM Town Hall AGENDA 1. Open meeting 2. Communications • Public Comment • New Communications 3. Review Minutes – 7/26/2012 4. Committee/Department Updates Capital Planning – Steve Raboin; DPW – Scott Giles; Library – Brian Laffond; Public Safety – Jason Smith; Service Level Team – Mark Eri ckson / Terri Burchfield; Sewer Commission – John Male; Council on Aging – Terri Bu rchfield; Schools/School Building/Monty Tech – Mark Erickson 5. Town Manager Updates • Town Accountant – FY12 Close Update 6. Budget Opportunities 7. Future Agenda Items • Discretionary/Less Discretionary Budget Items • Service Level Benchmarks • Education on Pension Plans - Kevin Blanchett • Sewer cost to service town buildings 8. Next Meeting • August 23, 2012 7:00 p.m. – Town Hall – Regularly Scheduled Meeting 9. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-08-09-minutes-2329.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-08-09 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-08-09-minutes-2329.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_08092012-2329 ======================================================================================== ===OCR macOS Vision=== ===PAGE 1=== Town of Lunenburg Finance Committee: Mark Erickson, Chairman Brian Laffond, Vice-Chairman Terri Burchfield, Co-Secretary Jason Smith, Co-Secretary John Male Scott Gile Steven Raboin 17 Main Street, P.O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462-0135 978.582.4139 FAX 978.582.4148 Lunenburg Finance Committee Minutes 8/9/2012 RECEIVED & FILED SEP 2 4 2012 LUNENBURG TOWN CLERK OFFICE Location: Present: Also Present: Town Hall M. Erickson, S. Gile, T. Burchfield, J.Smith Kerry Speidel 1. Meeting called to order at 7:04 PM 2. Communications M.E. shared a publication titled the Beacon, which was received in the mail, for members of the FINCOM to read if they would like to do so. 3. Review minutes of 7/26/2012 One minor correction suggested by JS. SG motioned to approve the minutes as corrected. TB seconded. Approved 4-0. 4. Committee/Department Updates School Committee- ME reported on the new timeline for the Owners Project Manager hiring process. DPW-SG reports that the mayor had mentioned Gardner, MA purchasing a machine that fills potholes with hot mix. It was reportedly purchased for around 7 thousand dollars in Minnesota and is working well for them. Public Safety- JS reported meeting with the police and fire chiefs for the town. It was an initial meeting to get to know one another. Budget related concerns were shared by both departments, predominantly regarding staff levels and funding for the same. The fire chief also made note of one of their engines coming up on retirement cycle. 5. Town Manager Updates FY2012 Budget Close Report- Remaining Appropriations (Leftover Monies) were discussed and questions pertaining to reasons were made and explanations were given for each line item in question on the report. There was a specific discussion regarding a transfer to the enterprise fund for recycling. The actual issue is one of proper separation of the funds for the recycling stream away from the solid waste stream. There was also a significant difference in the supplemental tax line which was mostly attributable to the change in the valuation of Emerald Place. FEMA reimbursements for the October snowstorm of 2011 have begun coming in and the balance that was approved will be coming in soon. Our portion of the Summer Street cost of design expenses were included in the Transportation Bond Bill at the State House. We are still waiting to hear that it has been signed by the Governor. Next week KS will be interviewing candidates for the treasurer/collector position. She has several candidates. We will be scheduling Kevin Blanchett to meet with the FINCOM on September 13* regarding education on pension plans. Special use permit for the Pleasant Street Solar Project was approved. They are looking to sell net metering credits to the town as the subject of a twenty (20) year contract. There is now similar discussion regarding the Chase Road Project as well. 6. Motion to adjourn was made at 8:48 PM by SG and seconded by TB, approved 4-0. Minutes respectfully submitted by JS Page 1 of 2 ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-09-13-agenda-2330.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-09-13 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-09-13-agenda-2330.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09132012-2330 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== NOTICE of FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING on September 13, 2012 7:00 PM Town Hall AGENDA 1. Open meeting 2. Education on Pension Plans - Kevin Blanchett 3. Communications • Public Comment • New Communications 4. Review Minutes – 8/9/2012 5. Committee/Department Updates Capital Planning – Steve Raboin; DPW – Scott Giles; Library – Brian Laffond; Public Safety – Jason Smith; Service Level Team – Mark Eri ckson / Terri Burchfield; Sewer Commission – John Male; Council on Aging – Terri Bu rchfield; Schools/School Building/Monty Tech – Mark Erickson 6. Change in Vocational School Funding Rules 7. Town Manager Updates 8. Budget Opportunities 9. Future Agenda Items • Discretionary/Less Discretionary Budget Items • Service Level Benchmarks • Sewer cost to service town buildings 10. Next Meeting • September 20, 2012 7:00 p.m. – Town Hall – Public Hearing STM Warrant 11. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-09-13-minutes-2330.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-09-13 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-09-13-minutes-2330.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_09132012-2330 ======================================================================================== ===OCR macOS Vision=== ===PAGE 1=== Finance Committee: Mark Erickson, Chairman Brian Laffond, Vice-Chairman Terri Burchfield, Co-Secretary Jason Smith, Co-Secretary John Male Scott Gile Steven Raboin Town of Lunenburg 022 Mark Suchen 17 Main Street, P.O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462-0135 9/20/12 978.582.4139 FAX 978.582.4148 Lunenburg Finance Committee Minutes 9/13/2012 RECEIVED & FILED SEP 2 4 2012 LUNENBURG TOWN CLERK OFFICE Location: Present: Also Present: Town Hall M. Erickson, B. Laffond, J. Male, S. Gile, J. Smith, S. Raboin, T. Burchfield K. Brochu 1. Meeting called to order 7:02. 2. Education on Pension Plans Kevin Blanchett, Chairman and CEO of the Worcester Regional Retirement System (WRRS), presented some history of the system, how it is funded, and steps it is taking to be fully funded by 2040. The transition to actuarial billing and its effect on the town portion of the pension liability has been tapered to ease effects on town budgets in the short term. He also distributed data comparing Lunenburg against the whole of the membership. With the exception of licensed school staff covered by the Mass Teacher Retirement System, all town employees participate in the WRRS. Communications Comments from the public: The question was raised as to whether the School Department transferred funds from the Capital article to fund salaries in the School budget. The question was referred to the School Committee, but Mark E will also check with the Town Manager. Publications and notices: The Association of Town Finance Committees will have its 2012 annual meeting on October 20"h. New members are encouraged to attend. Registration closes October 10" 4. Review minutes of 8/9/2012 TB motioned to approve, SG seconded. Approved 6-0 5. Committee/Department updates SG spoke with Mr. Rodriguez of the DPW. Among items discussed was the potential to use betterments for road repairs and drainage issues. SR attended the last Council on Aging meeting where they were discussing the use of funds received through the Lunenburg Relief Day. ME reviewed progress of School Building Committee moving forward to selection of an Owner Project Manager (OPM). JM We are still waiting on a sewer cost reconciliation on the costs to connect town buildings and debt service. Karen Will present the numbers at the first meeting in October (Oct. 11). ME also raised some concern regarding legislation that could change funding mechanisms for vocational schools, and is waiting to hear back from Rep. Benson with more particulars. 6. Town Manager report There was no report from the Town Manager. Tom Alonzo did respond to a request for regional dispatch update stating that meetings were ongoing. 7. Next meeting September 20" we will have a public hearing on the special town meeting warrant articles. Special town meeting Will be Tuesday, September 25". If necessary, we will meet at 6:30 on the 25" to discuss recommendations. 8. SG motioned to adjourn at 8:55. SR seconded, approved 7-0. Minutes respectfully submitted by Terri Burchfield. Page 1 of 1 ===PAGE 2=== Worcester Regional Contributory Retirement System LUNENBURG - 360 Valuation Results as of January 1, 2010 Summary of Member Data Active Members Average Age Average Service Valuation Salary Average Salary Retired Members and Beneficiaries Average Age Total Annual Pension Average Annual Pension Disabled Members Average Age Total Annual Pension Average Annual Pension Inactive Members Annuity Savings Fund Member Unit 127.766 48.3 10.2 $4,909,225 $38,424 70.000 73.0 $853,819 $12,197 • 8.000 68.2 $143,774 $17,972 48.000 $300,530 Employer Normal Cost as of January 1, 2010 a. b. C. d. Total Normal Cost Administrative Expenses Expected Employee Contributions Employer Normal Cost = a. + b. - c. $610,756 419,771 $190,985 Unfunded Actuarial Accrued Liability (UAAL) as of January 1, 2010 Active Members $10,674,822 Retired Members and Beneficiaries 8,022,192 c. d. e. Disabled Members - Accidental aye? 1,011,441 Disabled Members - Ordinary 88,160 Inactive Members Total AAL = a. + b. + c. + d. + e. 300,530 $20,097,145 Actuarial Value of Assets $10,093,204 b. Unfunded Actuarial Accrued Liability = £. - g $10,003,941 GASB Statement Numbers 25 and 27 Actuarial Accrued Liability Actuarial Value of Assets Unfunded Actuarial Accrued Liability (JAAL) = a. - b. d. e. f. g. h. Funded Ratio = b. + a. Covered Payroll UAAL as a Percentage of Covered Payroll = c. + e. Annual Required Contribution (ARC) Net Pension Obligation Annual Appropriations $20,097,145 10,093,204 $10,003,941 50.2% $4,909,225 203.8% $595,713 $0 Worcester Regional 6,236.000 47.1 2.6 $241,992,607 2080906 74.3 $37,900,202 $14,110 215.000 63.0 $5,583,375 $25,969 2,324.000 $12,337,781 $28,380,595 0 20,001,488 $8,379,107 $447,237,663 345,279,655 52,704,189 5,442,779 12,337,781 $863,002,067 $413,976,785 $449,025,282 $863,002,067 413,976,785 $449,025,282 48.0% $241,992,607 185.6% $33,072,000 $0 Calculations for the annual appropriations for fiscal years 2012 and 2013 are shown on the back side of this exhibit. ===PAGE 3=== RECEIVED & FILED Worcester Regional Contributory Retirement System SEP 2 4 2012 LUNENBURG TOWN LUNENBURG - 360 Annual Appropriations for Fiscal Years 2012 and 2013 CLERK OFFICE FY12 Appropriation (Salary Allocation Method) Employer Normal Cost Payment on UAL Payment on 2002 ERI Member Unit $171,308 437,963 e. Payment on 2003 ERI Total Appropriation = a. + b. + c. + d. $609,271 Worcester Regional $8,942,193 22,861,407 1,060,480 207,920 $33,072,000 FY13 Appropriation For FY13, the Annual Appropriation for each member unit will be based on a phase-in to the actuarial method. In the past, the System computed each member units' appropriation by allocating the total System appropriation to the member units based on, the porportion that the member unit's total salary is to the System's total salary. For future appropriations, the Retirement Board will determine each member units' appropriation based on the actuarial method, which means that the actual results of the actuarial valuation will be used to determine the appropriations due. This may result in either a decrease or an increase from the results determined under the salary allocation method. To mitigate wide fluctuations in the annual appropriation from FY12 to FY13, the Board has decided to phase-in the use of the actuarial method. For FY13 and FY14, the Annual Appropriations will be based on a portion of the salary allocation method and a portion of the actuarial method. FY15 and after will fully reflect the use of the actuarial method. FY13 = 66.67% of the salary allocation method PLUS 33.33% of the actuarial method. FX14 = 33.33% of the salary allocation method PLUS 66.67% of the actuarial method FY15 and after = 100% of the actuarial method. Below are the calcuations for FY13 under both the salary allocation method (using 2011 member unit salaries) and the actuatial method, followed by the FY13 phase-in calculation: 2011 Salary $4,356,748.04 228,749,418.29 Salary Allocation Method: f. Employer Normal Cost g• Payment on UAL h. Payment on 2002 ERI i. Payment on 2003 ERI ). Total Approptiation = f. + g. + h. + i. $171,358 471,078 0 $642,436 $8,997,083 24,733,758 1,108,202 217,277 $35,056,320 Actuanal Allocation Method: k. Employer Normal Cost 1. Payment on UAL m. Payment on 2002 ERI Payment on 2003 ERI 0. Total Appropriation = k. +1. + m. + n. $206,609 603,036 0 0 $809,645 $8,997,083 24,733,758 1,108,202 217,277 $35,056,320 FY13 Phase-In Method: p. 66.67% of Salary Allocation Method = .6667 * j. 9. 33.33% of Actuarial Allocation Method = 3333 * o. Total Appropriation =p.+ q- $428,312 269,855 $698,167 $35,056,320 If Total Appropriation paid on July 1, 2012 $684,989 ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-09-20-agenda-2331.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-09-20 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-09-20-agenda-2331.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09202012-2331 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== NOTICE of FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING and PUBLIC HEARING on September 20, 2012 7:00 PM Town Hall AGENDA 1. Open finance committee meeting 2. Open Public Hearing • Review STM Warrant Articles for financial impact • Invite public comments • Discuss/make recommendations 3. Close Public Hearing 4. Communications • Public Comment • New Communications 5. Review Minutes – 8/9/2012, 9/13/2012 6. Town Manager Updates 7. Budget Opportunities 8. Future Agenda Items • Discretionary/Less Discretionary Budget Items • Service Level Benchmarks • Sewer cost to service town buildings 9. Next Meeting • September 25, 2012 6:30 p.m. – LHS – Finalize STM Warrant recommendations • September 25, 2012 7:00 p.m. – LHS – Special Town Meeting • October 11, 2012 7:00 p.m. – Town Hall – Regularl y scheduled meeting 10. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-09-20-minutes-2331.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-09-20 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-09-20-minutes-2331.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_09202012-2331 ======================================================================================== ===OCR macOS Vision=== ===PAGE 1=== Town of Lunenburg Finance Committee: Mark Erickson, Chairman Brian Laffond, Vice-Chairman Terri Burchfield, Co-Secretary Jason Smith, Co-Secretary John Male Scott Gile Steven Raboin 17 Main Street, P.O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462-0135 978.582.4139 FAX 978.582.4148 10/11/12 Lunenburg Finance Committee Public Hearing/Meeting Minutes 9/20/2012 Location: Present: Town Hall M.Erickson, J.Male, S.Gile, J.Smith, S.Raboin, T.Burchfield 1. Public Hearing called to order at 7:00 PM. 2. Warrant Articles were addressed, with Articled 1,2 and 3 being passed by until later in the hearing. Article 4 was presented for discussion and several members of the community spoke on behalf of the library in support of the article and offered justifications for it being approved. One member of the library board presented the article and explained the reasons they were going to need to apply for a waiver for state aid. It was basically because they had a substantial cut to their budget and they stated that because it was more than 10% and because it was disproportional to previous year decreases, they would have to complete a calculation spreadsheet and make a presentation to the state in Boston to fight their case in having a waiver for state aid approved. Those supporting the article for the library also stated that if they lose their credentialing it could take more than 2 years for them to get it back and that they were facing an October 12 deadline to make application. The article has been presented as a means of them not having to apply for the waiver at all, because as it is presented, they would be getting restored to full funding of their budget as it was presented before the last Town Meeting. Another person speaking on behalf of the library stated that their library board as well as the town would have to write letters supporting the waiver if they are to apply for it. J.M from the FINCOM asked those presenting for the library why they say they had been cut disproportionally and for them to back up that statement. Discussion followed outlining the cuts they had previously had levied against their budget and explained that it was an amount larger than in previous years that was forcing them to face applying for this waiver. J.M of the FINCOM asked those presenting for the library what figure would they need to receive in order for them to be favorably considered for the waiver and place them at less than a 10 percent cut that seemed to be the magic number they were concerned about overcoming. The response was that they did not have that figure and they would need the Town financial staff to complete a worksheet that would give them that number. The Town Manager was called upon to bring clarity to a 123 thousand dollar increase in our state aid figure above what had been originally forecast. She explained how that figure was arrived at and what expenditures we would need to use it to cover if there is a change in school enrollment over and above what was forecast and her resistance to commit any of those funds to any project or cause at this point. She validated that concern by citing the last 5 year history of tuition assessments and variances that we had to cover as a town. A member of the community rose to ask where the money had come from previously to cover those overages. The Town Accountant answered that those cost had been covered by unexpended funds. A trustee of the library stepped forward to state that they would need to receive an additional $35,598.00 in funding, per the warrant article, to avoid seeking a waiver. M.E. polled the FINCOM to see if there was a motion for a recommendation regarding article 4 of the Special Town Meeting Warrant. Motion made by J.M to Not Support the article at all. There was no second to the motion. T.B. made a motion that we table the matter until our meeting on Tuesday 9/25/2012 for a vote. 5 yes-1 abstained. Motion carried. 3. It was determined that Article 5 on the Special Town Meeting Warrant did not present any financial impact to the town. Town Manager agreed. 4. Articles 1-3 were presented by the chair of the BOS. He explained the reason why we currently do not have any financial information on these articles. He stated that waiting on these has been in the best interest of the town financially. He delivered a recap of the history behind these articles and stated that the potential financial impact for the town lies somewhere between 140-180 thousand dollars or approximately 3.6-8.4 million over the next 20 years. ===PAGE 2=== He stated that we are still not sure about the PILOT proposals and any financial impact they might bring. S.G of the FINCOM asked the chair of the BOS if any of the property in question for these projects was going to be subject to removal from the state cherry sheets and if we would be losing out on any monies in that regard. The chair of the BOS replied that the property valuations of the properties in question were minimal in comparison to the potential income from the PILOT or net metering agreements in consideration. J.M. asked who the owner will be, or if under the PILOT if tax revenues would be lost in the development and the land it sits on. The answer was yes, there would be a forfeiture of tax revenues under the PILOTS and that this was all still a part of the negotiations under the net metering agreements. There were items in all of the proposals that would address this and offset it to some degree. M.E. recommended that we table all of the first three articles for a decision until our meeting on Tuesday 9/25/2012. 5. The Public hearing was closed at 8:05 PM. The balance of the FINCOM meeting continued. 6. Our regular meeting agenda was started with Public Comment. D. Passios came forward to ask a question. The question was regarding where funds came from to purchase electronic equipment that was subsequently sold by the school. Was it capital funds that it was purchased through? If so, monies from the sale of that equipment cannot be used for funding operations. M.E. responded to the question reiterating previous discussion on this matter and further stating that accounting is available to support the actions taken by the school in this matter. 7. Communications: Financial Briefs from Power and Sullivan were available if anyone wanted to read over them. Also received was an announcement of the Annual Association of Town Finance Committees meeting. 8. Minutes of our last meeting dated 9/13/2012 were presented for approval. S.G motioned for approval. S.R. seconded. 6-0 approved. 9. Budget Opportunities: None. 10. Future Agenda: Meeting at Lunenburg High School on 9/25/2012 @6PM with the BOS, followed by a FINCOM meeting to be held at the same location at 6:30PM. We are also to expect numbers pertaining to the Sewer costs to the town as requested by J.M. from the Town Manager at our meeting on 10/11/2012. 11. Motion to adjourn by S.G., seconded by S.R. Adjourned at 8:15PM. n...s.rn ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-09-25-agenda-2332.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-09-25 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-09-25-agenda-2332.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09252012-2332 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== NOTICE of FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING on September 25, 2012 6:30 PM LHS AGENDA 1. Open finance committee meeting 2. Finalize STM Warrant Article recommendations 3. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-09-25-minutes-2332.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-09-25 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-09-25-minutes-2332.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_09252012-2332 ======================================================================================== ===OCR macOS Vision=== ===PAGE 1=== Town of Lunenburg Finance Committee: Mark Erickson, Chairman Brian Laffond, Vice-Chairman Terri Burchfield, Co-Secretary Jason Smith, Co-Secretary John Male Scott Gile Steven Raboin 17 Main Street, P.O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462-0135 978.582.4139 FAX 978.582.4148 Lunenburg Finance Committee Minutes 9/25/12 Location: Present: Lunenburg High School M. Erickson, B. Laffond, J. Male, S. Gile, J. Smith, S. Raboin, T. Burchfield 1. Meeting called to order 6:33. 2. In advance of the Special Town Meeting, and following the Board of Selectmen meeting, the Finance Committee met to determine recommendations for the warrant articles. Article 1: SR motioned to recommend approval of Article 1, as written, authorizing the Board of Selectmen to negotiate a Power Purchase Agreement on behalf of the town. JM seconded, approval was unanimous. Article 2: JM motioned to recommend approval of Article 2, as written, allowing a PILOT agreement for the Pleasant Street solar project, subject to participation in a Power Purchase Agreement with Lunenburg as negotiated by the BoS. SR seconded, approval was unanimous. Article 3: JM motioned to recommend approval of Article 3, as written, allowing a PILOT agreement for the Chase Road solar project, subject to participation in a Power Purchase Agreement with Lunenburg as negotiated by the BoS. JS seconded, approval was unanimous. Article 4: TB motioned to recommend disapproval of Article 4, as written, seeking to increase the Lunenburg Public Library budget, as voted at the Annual Town Meeting, by $35,598. As it was anticipated that the rustees might amend the article, TB withdrew the motion, and a vote for any recommendation would be deferred pending the Trustees presentation. Article 5: As no financial impact to the Town was evident, no recommendation was required. 3. BL motioned to adjourn at 6:50. SG seconded, approved 7-0. Minutes respectfully submitted by Terri Burchfield. Page 1 of 1 ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-10-11-agenda-2333.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-10-11 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-10-11-agenda-2333.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10112012-2333 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== NOTICE of FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING on October 11, 2012 7:00 PM Town Hall AGENDA 1. Open meeting 2. Communications • Public Comment • New Communications 3. Review Minutes – 9/20/2012, 9/25/2012 4. Committee/Department Updates Capital Planning – Steve Raboin; DPW – Scott Giles; Library – Brian Laffond; Public Safety – Jason Smith; Service Level Team – Mark Eri ckson / Terri Burchfield; Sewer Commission – John Male; Council on Aging – Terri Bu rchfield; Schools/School Building/Monty Tech – Mark Erickson 5. Town Manager Updates • Sewer cost to service town buildings 6. Discuss pension plan information from Kevin Blan chett 7. Budget Opportunities 8. Future Agenda Items • Discretionary/Less Discretionary Budget Items • Service Level Benchmarks 9. Next Meeting • October 25, 2012 7:00 p.m. – Town Hall – Regularl y Scheduled Meeting 10. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-10-11-minutes-2333.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-10-11 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-10-11-minutes-2333.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_10112012-2333 ======================================================================================== ===OCR macOS Vision=== ===PAGE 1=== Town of Lunenburg Finance Committee: Mark Erickson, Chairman Brian Laffond, Vice-Chairman Terri Burchfield, Secretary Jason Smith John Male Scott Gile Steven Raboin 17 Main Street, P.O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462-0135 978.582.4139 FAX 978.582.4148 Marke 10/25/12 Lunenburg Finance Committee Minutes 10/11/2012 RECEIVED & FILED NOV 0 1 2012 LUNENBURG TOWN CLERK OFFICE Location: Present: Town Hall M. Erickson, B. Laffond, J. Male, S. Gile, J. Smith, S. Raboin, T. Burchfield 1. Meeting called to order 7:01. 2. Communications • No public present. • The Association of Town Finance Committees meeting is coming up 10/20. TB will be attending and will come back with the new handbook. JS withdrew as Co-Secretary due to time constraints. 3. Minutes • SG made a motion to accept the minutes for the September 20" meeting and public hearing. SR seconded, approved 6-0. (BL abstained as not present 9/20) SG made a motion to accept the minutes of September 25". IS seconded, approved 7-0. 4. Committee/Department Updates ME reported that the Service Level Team will likely not be convening. Discussion around ways to gather the information related to the services provided by the various departments, and gain an understanding of what the service levels and needs are across departments ensued. As half the FinCom is new, we thought the best way to do this would be to invite department heads in for an informal discussion about town needs well in advance of the budget process. This would give us a chance to get a sense of needs, and provide them a sense of where our questions may come later. SG, SR and TB will work on a framework to help focus such discussions. Mie also reported that there is concern that the town may be butting up against the foundation budget for schools. The figure is set by the state as expected per pupil spending by the town, and is used in determining state funding as well. • SR is all set on the Capital Planning Committee. • BL informed the Committee that a new Library Director has been hired. • JS reported that the Fire Chief discussed capital equipment needs at their last meeting. 5. Town Manager Update Neither the Town Manager nor Accountant was present for the meeting. JM expressed concern that the town has not been funding sewer debt at a rate of about $100,000 per year. The town made an initial payment of $400,000 several years ago, and there continues to be disagreement over what cost the town is responsible for. The actual figure in 6. question is unclear, which the committee thought the Town Accountant would have for this meeting. Pension information review There is consensus that the Committee wants to formally express concern over the automatic 3% cost of living adjustment that the Worcester County Retirement Board approved for retirees. ME will draft a letter for review at the next meeting. 2013 ni 7. ME reported that the School Building Committee is ready to begin negotiations with 4 finalists for OPM. They are hoping for state approval on November 5*. Fall.2004 is target to bring design to Town Meeting. 8. The meeting to review Health Insurance that Kerry requested should be scheduled soon. ME will check on that. 9. JS motioned to adjourn at 9:22. BL seconded, approved 7-0. Minutes respectfully submitted by Terri Burchfield. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-10-25-agenda-2334.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-10-25 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-10-25-agenda-2334.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10252012-2334 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-10-25-minutes-2334.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-10-25 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-10-25-minutes-2334.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_10252012-2334 ======================================================================================== ===OCR macOS Vision=== ===PAGE 1=== • Town of Lunenburg Finance Committee: Mark Erickson, Chairman Brian Laffond, Vice-Chairman Terri Burchfield, Secretary Jason Smith John Male Scott Gile Steven Raboin 17 Main Street, P.O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462-0135 978.582.4139 FAX 978.582.4148 Washe Luchtr m8l1d Lunenburg Finance Committee Minutes 10/25/2012 Location: Present: Also Present: Town Hall M. Erickson, B. Laffond, J. Male, S. Gile, J. Smith, S. Raboin, T. Burchfield K. Speidel 1. Meeting called to order at 7:00 pm. 2. Communications No public comment. TB attended the Association of Town Finance Committees meeting on 10/20 and distributed the new handbook. The meeting was a great experience, and Lunenburg appears to be using best practices as financial processes go. One question that came up was regarding the town's financial policies. KS reported that ours need work, and are part of the policies the Board of Selectmen are addressing. FinCom will have them for the budget process. 3. Minutes BL made a motion to accept the minutes for the October 11' meeting, amended to reflect that it was JM who raised the question of whether the Town was approaching foundation budget figures for the schools. SG seconded, approved 7-0. 4. Committee/Department Updates BL informed the Committee that the new Library Director is Martha Moore. He also expects to be asking what services have been added back given the additional funds approved, at the special town meeting. • JM will be researching the issues around sewers and town buildings. In an update regarding service levels, it was noted by Gregory Berthiaume, in the audience, that the School Committee had begun budget discussions, and Finance Committee members were welcome to observe. The School Committee also has been working on capital plans, and a concern that the cafeteria floor at the Primary School is failing. JM wondered if a tour of the schools by FinCom members would be possible. • ME reported that the School Building Committee has an approved contract with an OPM which should be ratified by the MSBA on November S". Fall 2013 is target to bring design to Town Meeting • SR reported that there has not been a Capital Planning Committee meeting. 5. Letter to Kevin Blanchette and the Worcester County Retirement Board ME shared the letter he is sending on behalf of the Committee to Mr. Blanchette expressing concern over the 3% cost of living adjustment that was approved for retirees when the social security adjustment was so much lower and municipal budgets are stressed. Discussion regarding contacting state representatives as well ensued. 6. Service level discussions SR reported on the questions the subgroup would like to raise with department heads before we get into the budget season. In addition to the reviews brought back by liaisons from their external committee assignments, we would also like to hear from some departments with the whole group, especially as we have so many new members and there are new department heads as well. Mark and Kerry will invite Fire, Police and DPW to a November 29 meeting. 7. Town Manager Updates There are 2 solar projects ongoing, on Electric Avenue and Chase Road. As the projects move forward, the Town is anticipating saving $200-225,000 per year when the credits begin. There is still some back and forth with Unitil as to the amount (17.1 or 18.1 cent) of the credits. • As a result of the Verizon tax abatement case, the Town will owe $48,000 dollars plus about $18,000 interest. The Board of Assessors will review to determine actual numbers, and Kerry will report them at the next meeting. As interest compounds daily, she hopes to make payment soon. ===PAGE 2=== • The Town is still awaiting FEMA reimbursement from the October storm last year. We have received 400,000 and have $157,000 to go. The state DoR is requiring the town to fund the deficit, which affects th Tax Recapitulation. Right now it is an accounting problem, but we may need to borrow money to fund i MEMA has started conference calls in advance of the upcoming storm. 3. Next meetings Sewer and Health Insurance? November 29*, Service levels discussion December 13*, Tax ReCap JM will forward a link he follows for statistics, benchmarks ME will forward GASB 45 information Kerry will forward fiscal policies. 9. JM motioned to adjourn at 8:56. SR seconded, approved 7-0. Minutes respectfully submitted by Terri Burchfield. n...r.ro ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-11-08-agenda-2335.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-11-08 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-11-08-agenda-2335.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_11082012-2335 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== NOTICE of FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING on November 8, 2012 7:00 PM Town Hall AGENDA 1. Open meeting 2. Communications • Public Comment • New Communications 3. Review Minutes – 10/25/2012 4. Committee/Department Updates Capital Planning – Steve Raboin; DPW – Scott Giles; Library – Brian Laffond; Public Safety – Jason Smith; Sewer Commission – John Male; Council on Aging – Terri Burchfield; Schools/School Building/Monty Tech – Ma rk Erickson 5. Finalize guidelines for service level discussion s with department heads 6. Discuss school building tour 7. Interim report on sewer costs to service town bu ildings 8. Town Manager Updates • Health insurance costs 9. Budget Opportunities 10. Future Agenda Items • Tax Rate Recap 11. Next Meeting • November 29, 2012 7:00 p.m. – Town Hall – Meet Po lice Chief, Fire Chief, DPW Director • December 13, 2012 7:00 p.m. – Town Hall – Regularl y Scheduled Meeting 12. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-11-29-agenda-2336.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-11-29 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-11-29-agenda-2336.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_11292012-2336 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== NOTICE of FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING on November 29, 2012 7:00 PM Town Hall AGENDA 1. Open meeting 2. Communications • Public Comment • New Communications 3. Meet and greet with Department Heads: Police Chi ef, Fire Chief, DPW Director 4. Review Minutes – 11/08/2012 5. Town Manager Updates • First quarter budget report (Town Accountant) 6. Future Agenda Items • Tax Rate Recap 7. Next Meeting • December 13, 2012 7:00 p.m. – Town Hall – Joint w/ Select Board and School Committee - Health Care costs 8. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-12-13-agenda-2337.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-12-13 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-12-13-agenda-2337.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_12132012-2337 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== NOTICE of FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING on December 13, 2012 7:00 PM Town Hall AGENDA 1. Open meeting 2. Communications • Public Comment • New Communications 3. Review Minutes – 11/29/2012 4. Committee/Department Updates Capital Planning – Steve Raboin; DPW – Scott Gile; Library – Brian Laffond; Public Safety – Jason Smith; Sewer Commission – John Male; Council on Aging – Terri Burchfield; Schools/School Building/Monty Tech – Ma rk Erickson 5. Review Department Head Meet and Greet 6. Review School Buildings Tour 7. Town Manager Updates • First Quarter Budget Report • Financial Forecast • Financial Policies 8. Budget Opportunities 9. Future Agenda Items • Health Insurance Costs • Tax Rate Recap 10. Next Meeting • January 10, 2013 7:00 p.m. – Town Hall – Regularly Scheduled Meeting 11. Adjournment ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-12-13-minutes-2337.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-12-13 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-12-13-minutes-2337.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_12132012-2337 ======================================================================================== ===OCR macOS Vision=== ===PAGE 1=== •Finance Committee: Mark Erickson, Chairman Brian Laffond, Vice-Chairman Terri Burchfield, Secretary Jason Smith Steven Raboin John Henshaw Karin Menard Town of Lunenburg Lister, 17 Main Street, P.O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462-0135 978.582.4139 FAX 978.582.4148 Lunenburg Finance Committee Minutes 12/12/2013 Location: Present: Absent: Town Hall M. Erickson, S. Raboin, T. Burchfield, J. Henshaw, B. Laffond, K. Menard J. Smith 1. Meeting called to order at 7:00 pm. ME reminded everyone that we will have a Public Hearing regarding the Special Town Meeting warrant on December 19th. 2. Presentation of the 5 Year Financial Forecast K. Speidel presented the Town Manager's forecast beginning with a review of assumptions made which lead to the forecast. As the town did not see a drop off in local receipts, no bounce in receipts is anticipated. The outlook for state aid is also absent any significant change. The revenue outlook anticipates a 2% annual increase, while expenditures are seen at 2.8% annual increases, leaving deficits which will have to be addressed through the budget process, though more manageable deficits than have been seen in the recent past. The town continues to look for opportunities to realize savings through regionalizing services such as animal control and a regional lock up. ME would have liked to have seen the assumptions showing debt service beginning in 2017 if the school project is authorized to see what impact that might have. The interest rates are fixed for current debt. The Town Manager also reviewed the improved bond rating for the Town, which will be helpful with obtaining favorable rates should the school project go forward. During public comment, Dave Matthews wanted to make the point that it is normal to see deficits projected, but that by the time a budget is brought to the Town for approval, it will be balanced. ME explained that we will have a balanced budget, and that the forecast is a tool to help guide budget decisions. He then closed public comment and thanked Ms. Speidel for the work on the forecast. mi l Minutes KM motioned to approve the minutes of 9/26/13. SR seconded, BL abstained, motion approved BL motioned to approve the minutes of 11/14/13. KM seconded, motion approved. 4. Committee Reports: SR reported that Capital Plan prioritization is complete for the year. The building reuse committee presented recommendations to the Board of Selectmen last week. BL reported that the Library budget is 33% spent into the year. The Friends have paid for window cleaning inside and out, and the new automatic door which has been installed. KM reported that the Agriculture Committee is looking at a Right to Farm bill. Monty Tech's new library is opening soon. ME said that the School Committee has started their budget process with principals looking to restore personnel and supplies to the budget. JH reported that there were possible grant opportunities for the DPW's signage project. 5. Town Manager Update The Summer Street project is at 25% design and so will be going back to the state for review. 6. Fiscal Policies JH discussed his draft of policies regarding capital expenditures, free cash and debt management. John will look at the pavement plan and current process to prioritize the 5 year Capital Plan. The question of when borrowing should occur for capital expenditures will be addressed. 7. Budget Opportunities We will continue looking for any efficiencies that could result in savings over the long term. 8. Next meetings ===PAGE 2=== December 19" will be the public hearing for the Special Town Meeting. The ST meeting will be January 7", with the Special Election January 114. Th met red to dietin. Kil becanda, meting adjourned at 9,00 pm. Minutes respectfully submitted by Terri Burchfield. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-12-19-agenda-2404.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-12-19 KIND : agenda OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-12-19-agenda-2404.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_12192012-2404 ======================================================================================== ===PAGE 1=== Finance Committee Meeting1. ======================================================================================== DOCUMENT : 2012-12-19-minutes-2404.txt BOARD : finance-committee DATE : 2012-12-19 KIND : minutes OUR COPY : https://lunenburgbudgetproject.org/docs/minutes/text/finance-committee/2012-12-19-minutes-2404.txt TOWN PDF : https://www.lunenburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_12192012-2404 ======================================================================================== ===OCR macOS Vision=== ===PAGE 1=== Town of Lunenburg Finance Committee: Mark Erickson, Chairman Brian Laffond, Vice-Chairman Terri Burchfield, Secretary Jason Smith Steven Raboin John Henshaw Karin Menard 17 Main Street, P.O. Box 135 Lunenburg, MA 01462-0135 978.582.4139 FAX 978.582.4148 Lunenburg Finance Committee Minutes 12/19/2013 Location: Present: Absent: Town Hall M. Erickson, S. Raboin, T. Burchfield, J. Henshaw, B. Laffond, K. Menard J. Smith 1. Meeting called to order at 7:00 pm. 2. Committee Reports: SR reported that the Capital Planning Committee anticipated final recommendations and prioritization would be taken up at their meeting on January 2nd. No other reports. 3. Public Hearing on Special Town Meeting Warrant ME opened the Public Hearing. The School Building Committee made a presentation explaining their recommendation as presented in the 1 warrant article. Fiscal impacts discussed included the estimate that the cost to the town to do nothing would be $25 million where the cost of the preferred option would be $37 million. The Board of Selectmen had already voted to go with 30 year financing, which would mean debt service on the project would expire in 2048, and the cost of tinancing was estimated at $32 million. Tax bills would reflect the cost of the debt in 2018, after permanent financing had been obtained. The final actual cost of the project itself would not be determined until the RFP for construction had gone out and been accepted. The School Building Committee will continue to take feedback and work on the design and cost savings until the RFP is done. After questions from the public were addressed, ME closed the Public Hearing. 4. STM Warrant Articles For the purpose of discussion, TB made a motion that the Finance Committee recommend approval of Article 1 as presented in the Warrant. JH seconded. While the Finance Committee is unanimous in stating the need for a new high school, questions remain regarding some design components and the concern that operational costs will not be neutral. Vote to approve the motion to recommend approval was 5-1 in favor. Article 2 was deemed to have no fiscal impact, so no action was taken. 5. Fiscal Policies JH reported that he had met with SR to review the policies and procedures regarding Capital Planning and expenditures. He found SR and the information discussed very helpful. We will take up the draft at our next meeting on 1/9/14. 6. Next meetings The Special Town meeting will be January 7ª, with the Special Election January 11*, The next regular meeting will be January 9t. TB motioned to adjourn. KM seconded, meeting adjourned at 8:35 pm. Minutes respectfully submitted by Terri Burchfield.