BUDGET COMMITTEE MINUTES
January 22, 2007
APPROVED AS AMENDED:
1/29/07 jrl___
AGENDA: Deliberations on the Proposed 2007 Budget.
ATTENDING: Archie Auger (Chairman), Dorcas Gordon (Vice-Chairman.), Joe Denning (Sel. Rep.), Albert (“Skip”) Bowie, David C. Carr, Darla Jaquith, Don Kimball, Catherine Pitari, Ron Preble, Paul Simard, Jon Thouin, Richard Walenda
ABSENT: Tom Winn (conflict)
OTHER: Steve Favorite (Selectmen – handling the video taping) Elizabeth Corrow (Town Manager)
The meeting opened at 7:00 pm. It was noted that Tom Winn was absent.
MINUTES OF 1/15/07: Ms. Corrow had supplied an amended copy to the Committee and explained that she had made a few changes for clarification and to correct a couple of omissions.
The changes made were:
Page 1, under SELECTMEN’S BUDGET, 2nd paragraph, last line, delete “, a 40 cent increase”. Next paragraph, first line, after “explained that” insert “when she estimates the town’s portion of the tax rate”. In the next line, after “revenues” insert “for the town only.”. In the 3rd line, delete “keep things” and after “level” insert “the tax rate”. At the end of that line, add “service”. In the 4th paragraph, 2nd line, after “and is still” insert “estimated to be” and, at the end of that sentence add “with the budget presented tonight.” In the 5th paragraph, last line, add to the end “and the estimated revenues includes bike path reimbursements.”
Page 2, 1st paragraph, 3rd line, delete “information at all” and replace with “worksheet”. 4th line, delete “figures this” and replace with “estimates the tax impact”. 6th line, after “asked” insert “by the Board”. In the 3rd paragraph, 4th line, replace “CMP” with “CNP”. In the 4th paragraph, 2nd line, replace “an Assessing Service” with “our Assessing Software” and in the next line, after “Software” insert “change”. In the last paragraph, 2nd line, change “annual” to “semi-annual”.
Page 3, 3rd paragraph, 3rd line, after “Master Plan” delete “under” and replace with “to encourage”and in the 19th line, replace “will” with “could”.
D. Gordon made a motion, second by J. Denning, to accept the minutes as amended and clarified. The motion carried with two abstentions.
CORRESPONDENCE: None received.
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DELIBERATIONS ON THE PROPOSED 2007 BUDGET: Mr. Auger pointed out that we have been given the new budget sheets with a Budget column added. He would like to go through the budget with the easiest sections first and to exclude all salaries and benefits at this time.
LEGAL (PAGE 4): P. Simard made a MOTION, second by J. Thouin, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S PROPOSED AMOUNT OF $35,000. There was no discussion and the motion CARRIED: 12 for, 0 opposed, 1 abstention.
PERSONNEL ADMIN. (page 4): J. Denning made a MOTION, second by D. Gordon, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S PROPOSED AMOUNT OF $83,006.
Mr. Simard asked about the Accrued Benefits and Mr. Carr explained that this is the Vacation and Sick Pay that has been accumulated and not used. This is paid to the employee when he/she leaves. Mr. Simard asked if the new life insurance is here and was told that it is not. Mr. Simard asked about how the accrued benefits is done and Mr. Auger thought that they get to hold 30 days but no-one seemed sure of the exact formula for this. It was then asked if we have been advised to put aside 60% of our liability and Mr. Carr answered that this is true. Mr. Auger added that this amount is only for the General Government portion of the budget.
The vote was called and the motion was CARRIED: 11 for, 0 opposed, 1 abstention.
PLANNING BOARD (page 5): Mr. Auger reminded everyone that we shall withhold wages and benefits.
P. Simard made a MOTION, second by J. Thouin, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S PROPOSED AMOUNT LESS SALARY AND BENEFITS.
Mr. Preble asked if the Salary and Benefits are the first 3 lines and was told that they are. Mr. Simard questioned why there is a line for Legal here (#320). Mr. Denning explained that the Planning Board does have a need for legal services.
P. Simard made a MOTION, second by R. Walenda, to STRIKE LEGAL OF $1,000. FROM THIS BUDGET. The motion FAILED: 2 for, 10 opposed, 0 abstentions.
Mr. Simard then stated that all Legal should be in the LEGAL section of the budget so that the Selectmen have can have control. Ms. Gordon felt that it was reasonable for the Planning Board to have this line for when they need some legality on a plan. Mr. Denning stated that the Selectmen do not run the Planning Board. Mr. Simard asked if we have an attorney on a retainer and Ms. Corrow answered that we do not. Mr. Simard feels that the Planning Board should have to consult with the Selectmen before they use attorney services. Mr. Preble felt that it should be left here so that we know exactly what the Planning Board spends on attorney fees. Ms. Corrow added that she gets a copy of what they use. The secretary explained that the Planning Board has to send all amendments to the Zoning Ordinance to the town attorney before they can present them for a vote.
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DELIBERATIONS, PLANNING BOARD continued:
Mr. Bowie asked about line #731 CONTRACT SERVICE TO DEVELOP EXCAVATION REGS. Mr. Favorite, the Selectmen’s Rep. on the Planning Board, stated that this is for Lakes Region Planning Commission’s help with our Excavation regulations which are required by RSA155E. Mr. Bowie asked what this is for and Mr. Favorite explained that it is for gravel pits. A discussion followed as to what is needed to cover the State law. Mr. Walenda stated that other towns do this. Mr. Thouin asked what we do have now and Mr. Favorite stated that we only have the State law.
P. Simard made a MOTION, second by R. Walenda, to STRIKE THE $2500 FOR LINE #731. Mr. Simard felt that the State law covers this. He did not see it as necessary. Ms. Pitari asked if this is a hard number and Mr. Favorite stated that it is a ballpark figure. She then asked if they have no other basis for this, such as a template guide. Mr. Favorite did not know. Mr. Bowie asked if the State requires this and Mr. Favorite stated that they did. Mr. Bowie then asked if Lakes Region doesn’t do stuff for us just because we are members and Ms. Jaquith asked why we are just doing this now. Mr. Favorite stated that the Board has been trying to find time to do it but have been too busy with hearings to find time for workshops. It requires mapping and doing the special needs of the town. Mr. Simard asked if there is any consequence if the excavator follows 155E on his own. Mr. Favorite felt that it was a matter of enforcement. Mr. Auger stated that the fees are paid to the town where the pit is located. More discussion followed. Mr. Simard felt that the Committee does not know what they are buying or what it is for. Ms. Jaquith added that this was not in the budget when the Planning Board budget was brought to us. Ms. Corrow explained that it came in an e-mail from Chairman, Dan Paradis, who stated that they have been attempting to work on this for several years and that the $2500 is an estimate. Ms. Gordon defended the Land Use Boards as they had not been asked to come in to the Budget Committee. Ms. Jaquith felt that the Committee needed more information. Mr. Walenda felt that it would create another problem where they would want more and more each year.
A vote was then taken to strike this line and was DEFEATED: 5 for, 6 opposed, 1 abstention.
A vote for the Planning Board budget, less wages and benefits, was taken and CARRIED: 8 for, 4 opposed, no abstentions.
ZONING BOARD (page 5): C. Pitari made a MOTION, second by J. Denning, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S PROPOSED BUDGET LESS SALARIES AND BENEFITS. With no discussion, the motion CARRIED: 11 for, 1 opposed, no abstentions.
TAX MAP (page 5): C. Pitari made a MOTION, second by J. Denning, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S RECOMMENDATION. Again, there was no discussion and the motion CARRIED: 10 for, 0 opposed, 2 abstentions.
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DELIBERATIONS continued:
CEMETERIES (page 6): D. Carr made a MOTION, second by D. Jaquith, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S RECOMMENDATION.
Mr. Walenda asked why we subsidize a private cemetery (Homeland). Mr. Auger explained that the State requires that we have a cemetery available for our residents. Mr. Denning added that it would cost considerably more if we did this ourselves. Ms. Jaquith pointed out that if we have no-one to bury in a given year, would we still need to supply a cemetery.
The vote was taken and the motion CARRIED: 10 for, 0 opposed, 2 abstentions.
INSURANCE (page 6): A. Bowie made a MOTION, second by R. Preble, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S RECOMMENDATION. With no discussion, the motion CARRIED: 11 for, 0 opposed, 1 abstention.
REG. ASSOC. (page 6): A. Bowie made a MOTION, second by J. Denning, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S RECOMMENDATION.
Mr. Preble asked what happened with Neighbor to Neighbor. Ms. Jaquith explained that it was an organization that supplied transportation but is no longer in existence. Mr. Simard asked what Lakes Region Planning is doing. Mr. Favorite stated that we draw a repertoire of information from them; a lot of outside information, training conferences, etc. We use them a lot. Mr. Denning added that they are regional data gatherers. Ms. Corrow stated that their focus is on education of Planning Board members. They also look into grants at a State level if they are like the group that Plymouth uses. Mr. Simard asked if they have assisted us on any grants. Mr. Favorite stated that they did a lot of work on our Master Plan. Mr. Auger explained that they maintain a model for regulations for Planning and Zoning. Some is free and some comes at a cost. Mr. Simard feels that it is time for us to look at this on line. Mr. Bowie felt that having someone do the research on line might be reasonable but salaries would be higher.
A vote was taken and the motion CARRIED: 10 for, 1 opposed, 1 abstention.
CONTINGENCY (page 6): C. Pitari made a MOTION, second by J. Denning, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S RECOMMENDATION.
Mr. Walenda questioned why this is good to have. Mr. Denning stated that this past year we had to use it (for the fire and flooding). Other years, it has not been needed. Mr. Auger explained that it requires the vote of the Board of Selectmen and can only be used for a specific use; usually only spent for an emergency. Mr. Simard noted that the General Government (that all of these are under) is $139,000 more than last year.
R. Walenda made a MOTION, to AMEND THE AMOUNT IN CONTINGENCY TO $10,000. There was no second given.
The original motion was then voted on and CARRIED: 11 for, 1 opposed, 0 abstentions.
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DELIBERATIONS continued:
HUMANE SOCIETY (page 15): J. Denning made a MOTION, second by D. Jaquith, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S RECOMMENDATION.
Mr. Preble asked why we pay so much. Ms. Corrow stated that this is their yearly fee. Mr. Auger added that they sent a letter requesting this amount. If we had our own service, it would be three times that amount. Mr. Bowie stated that it averages $150 for each dog or cat and the figures come from our use the previous year. Mr. Carr added that the animals get to stay in a million dollar facility!
The vote was taken and the motion CARRIED: 7 for, 3 opposed, 2 abstentions.
HEALTH AGENCIES (page 15): A. Bowie made a MOTION, second by C. Pitari, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S RECOMMENDATION. With no discussion, the motion CARRIED: 11 for, 1 opposed, 0 abstentions.
WELFARE ADMIN. (page 15): P. Simard made a MOTION, second by J. Denning, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S RECOMMENDATION LESS SALARIES AND BENEFITS.
Mr. Carr asked about the new Travel line (#342). Ms. Corrow explained that this has been in effect since 2005 and was used when going for training. Mr. Denning added that it was also used to check on rental places and to inspect them for safety. Mr. Bowie asked where the Irish lady was and he was told that she has gone. Ms. Gordon stated that Krystal has been doing a great job. Mr. Preble asked if the Health Officer didn’t do the checking and Ms. Corrow stated that the Fire Chief and Welfare have been handling it.
A vote was taken and the motion CARRIED: 10 for, 0 opposed, 2 abstentions.
WELFARE SERVICES (page 15): P. Simard made a MOTION, second by J. Denning, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S RECOMMENDATION.
Mr. Simard noted that there is an increase of $14,000 or 32% increase over the 2006 actual.
A vote was taken and the motion CARRIED: 11 for, 1 opposed, 0 abstentions.
RECREATION (page 16): D. Gordon made a MOTION, second by J. Denning, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S RECOMMENDATION.
Mr. Simard asked if the X-Mas lights are the white lights. Mr. Favorite stated that it is and that they must be replaced every three years. The stores supply the electricity. Mr. Preble asked if we are adding more or if this is just maintenance and Mr. Favorite answered that it is maintenance this year. Mr. Simard asked if there is any value to the merchants by leaving them on year-round, even when they are not open. Mr. Denning said that some are open. Mr. Auger thought that it is less expensive to leave them up then to keep taking them down.
The vote was taken and the motion CARRIED: 9 for, 2 opposed, 1 abstention.
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DELIBERATIONS continued:
BEACHES (page 16): P. Simard made a MOTION, second by J. Denning, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S RECOMMENDATION LESS SALARIES AND BENEFITS.
Mr. Simard questioned#430 Beach Improvements and asked if we have an outline yet. Mr. Denning stated that the Commissions are now gone but Mason Westfall brought the plan to the Selectmen. They intend on moving it along. Mr. Carr stated that we have been trying to get something done for some time. He would like to see the plan. Ms. Jaquith asked why the lines are funded lower than the 2006 budget. Ms. Corrow stated that a past Commissioner said that their intent was to level-fund. The Beaches and Kelley Park are our greatest assets. Mr. Auger pointed out that they may have used the 2006 actual spending to develop these numbers. Mr. Walenda asked why they need a cell phone and Mr. Bowie answered that it was put in for emergencies. Mr. Carr asked why it is so high and Ms. Corrow thought that it probably is the monthly charge. Mr. Preble asked if it is for 3 or 4 months only. Ms. Corrow felt that it must be and Mr. Auger added that the base rate may have required it to be longer. Mr. Simard asked if we might table this until we see the plan and Mr. Auger said that we would need a vote of the Committee.
P. Simard made a MOTION, second by R. Preble, to TABLE BEACHES UNTIL WE SEE THE PLAN. The motion CARRIED: 9 for, 3 opposed. Mr. Simard noted that he has requested this without prejudice.
KELLEY PARK (page 16): D. Gordon made a MOTION, second by J. Denning, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S RECOMMENDATION LESS SALARIES AND BENEFITS. There was no discussion and the motion CARRIED: 10 for, 0 opposed, 2 abstentions.
PATRIOTIC (page 18): Mr. Denning made a MOTION, second by D. Jaquith, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S RECOMMENDATION.
Mr. Carr asked if the Patriotic Purposes (line #890) is for fireworks only. The secretary stated that it usually contains the Veteran’s flags for the cemeteries, as well. Mr. Denning stated that the secretary may be right but he thought it was just for fireworks. Mr. Simard asked where the location for the fireworks will be and Mr. Denning answered that they will be at the same place as last year. Mr. Preble would like to know about the flags and Ms. Corrow is to check into that.
The vote was taken and the motion CARRIED: 10 for, 0 opposed, 2 abstentions.
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DELIBERATIONS continued:
CONSERVATION COMMISSION (page 18): P. Simard made a MOTION, second by D. Jaquith, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S RECOMMENDATION.
Mr. Simard stated that they did not spend all of last year’s budget and that they get to keep whatever they do not spend. He asked why there is such a large increase. Mr. Auger felt that they send kids to Conservation Camp and Mr. Preble added that maybe someone did not go this past year. He added that previously we had to return funds as we had not been giving them back to the Commission. Ms. Corrow stated that membership is up as they have added membership to an International group. She feels that the unexpended monies should go to the General Fund unless set up as a revolving land use fund or a special revenue fund. Mr. Auger advised her to look into this as it has been voted in earlier by the townspeople.
As the Committee felt that this needs to be looked at, J. Thouin made a MOTION, second by P. Simard, to TABLE CONSERVATION COMMISSION UNTIL WE HAVE THE ANSWERS. The motion CARRIED: 10 for, 1 opposed, 1 abstention.
HDC (Historic District Commission - page 18): J. Denning made a MOTION, second by D. Gordon, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S RECOMMENDATION LESS SALARIES AND BENEFITS.
Mr. Simard noted that this budget has increased 212%. He questioned Office Supplies (#620). Ms. Gordon mentioned that Advertising and Postage are in and out items paid by the applicants. As to Office Supplies, they want to get signs showing the District. Mr. Simard asked how they make changes to their regulations and Ms. Gordon answered that these are done through the Planning Board. Mr. Walenda felt that they should leave the Square alone. Mr. Preble stated that signs are not office supplies and Ms. Gordon explained that this includes paper, etc., as well. It was mentioned that signs should be added to the line title.
A vote was taken and the motion CARRIED: 10 for, 1 opposed, 1 abstention.
SOCIAL SERVICES (page 18): J. Denning made a MOTION, second by R. Preble, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S RECOMMENDATIONS.
D. Carr made a MOTION, second by P. Simard, to AMEND THE MOTION TO THE SAME AMOUNT AS LAST YEAR.
Mr. Carr feels that this is enough given outside of the community. Mr. Denning stated that Tri-County does a lot of community work here in Bristol. Ms. Jaquith added that all of these service our community. Mr. Walenda did not want to fund Voices against Violence due to a bad situation that happened with his neighbor.
The Amendment was voted and it was DEFEATED: 3 for, 8 opposed, 1 abstention.
The original motion was then voted and it CARRIED: 10 for, 0 opposed, 2 abstentions.
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DELIBERATIONS continued:
TAX INTEREST (page 19): P. Simard made a MOTION, second by D. Carr, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S RECOMMENDATION. There was no discussion and the motion CARRIED: 11 for, 0 opposed, 1 abstention.
GRANTS (page 19): J. Denning made a MOTION, second by D. Jaquith, to ACCEPT
THE SELECTMEN’S RECOMMENDATIONS.
Mr. Simard asked if there are any grants in process. Ms. Corrow answered that there are a couple small ones in the Fire Department. She is hoping for Transportation Enhancement Grants in the future. Most grants are for Public Safety for Fire and Police equipment; not for buildings.
A vote was taken and the motion was CARRIED: 11 for, 0 opposed, 1 abstention.
(a 2 minute break was held at this time.) Mr. Simard asked how late we should hold the meeting to and Mr. Auger answered that he would like to be close to our usual time.
CAPITAL PROJECTS (page 20): P. Simard made a MOTION, second by D. Jaquith, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S RECOMMENDATIONS.
Mr. Auger stated that there are just two projects: the pier and the sewer to the Lake projects. Mr. Simard asked if we have a pier plan. Ms. Corrow that they had a general schematic last week. Mr. Simard then asked if this amount is just for planning purposes. Ms. Corrow answered that it is the whole cost.
Albert Bowie made a MOTION, second by P. Simard, to DELETE $30,000 FOR THE PIER (LINE #725).
Mr. Bowie stated that liability has not been answered and the townspeople voted in the past not to get into the rental business. As for a fire boat, it would not fit here and would be better to be placed on the Avery-Crouse beach to be closer when needed for a rescue. Mr. Thouin felt that there was not enough thought yet. Ms. Corrow stated that, as far as legal authority, the town attorney stated that we are covered. She has asked NHMA about liability but has not received a response as yet. Ms. Gordon is concerned with the details; who gets the slips and how it will be administered. She feels this should be a warrant article. As an example, Ms. Gordon stated that we now own the former Getty Station, does that mean we should go into the gas station business. She does not feel that this is a benefit to the town as it serves only 16 people. Mr. Walenda agreed and added that he feels that it should be a warrant article, as well. Mr. Carr would like to see it zeroed as it is not a basic town function. We should be putting this money into our town beaches. Mr. Thouin added that there is nothing in this budget for support either. Ms. Corrow stated that she has been charged with looking for ways to generate revenue. This is one way. There are lots of questions, however. Mr. Denning expressed that the Selectmen have no intention of hiding this and he feels that it could be in as a warrant.
The vote was taken to delete the $30,000 and the motion was CARRIED: 11 for, 1 opposed, 0 abstentions. Mr. Auger stated that this is nothing personal; that we need more information.
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DELIBERATIONS - CAPITAL PROJECTS continued:
As to the original motion which has been amended, Mr. Denning noted that sewer to the Lake is important. It is already in process as they have upgraded the plant and hope to have something within 3 years. Mr. Walenda was concerned as he feels that the Federal Government will mandate that we have to include Bridgewater, Hebron and Alexandria, as well. Ms. Corrow stated that she met with Concord this past week and are now to work with the engineers. They intend on having information ready for town meeting. She added that this project may need to be done in phases.
The amended motion was then voted and CARRIED: 11 for, 1 opposed, 0 abstentions.
CAPITAL EQUIPMENT (page 20): Mr. Auger felt that we could get through this quickest by looking at each individual line.
#760 POLICE CRUISER: P. Simard made a MOTION, second by J. Denning, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S RECOMMENDATION.
Mr. Simard expressed that he does not feel the need to get two cruisers. He went on to say that we have a plan that we should stick to.
D. Carr made an AMENDMENT TO THE MOTION, second by A. Bowie, to CUT LINE #760 TO $28,000.
Mr. Carr stated that a cruiser runs about 90,000 miles. A cruiser lasts about 100,000 miles a year. He feels that buying one cruiser a year with a maintenance budget of $6,000 should bring us out okay. Mr. Bowie mentioned that we have been buying our cruisers on an 18 month rotation and he feels we would do better by getting one a year. Mr. Auger added that this is the year that we had scheduled for a new cruiser on the old schedule.
A vote was taken and the Amendment CARRIED: 10 for, 2 opposed, 0 abstentions.
#761 HIGHWAY 1-TON TRUCK: P. Simard made a MOTION, second by A. Bowie, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S RECOMMENDATION.
Mr. Simard felt that we should let this ride and added that Mark Bucklin, Highway Superintendent, does a great job.
The motion CARRIED: 11 for, 1 opposed, 0 abstentions.
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DELIBERATIONS – CAPITAL EQUIPMENT continued:
#750 POLICE SPEED BOARD: P. Simard made a MOTION, second by J. Denning, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S RECOMMENDATION.
Mr. Simard stated that we have two radar guns and do not need this. Mr. Bowie agreed with him. Mr. Thouin felt that a Board makes a difference when a policeman is not there. Mr. Walenda disagreed. Mr. Preble felt that it would be good on North Main St. Ms. Corrow stated that Plymouth got one last year and it helped. Mr. Bowie felt that with 9 patrolmen, what else will they do if they have this. Mr. Simard stated that he travels to Cannan and people only slow when they see a policeman. Ms. Pitari feels that it is very useful but she would like to see them go for a grant for this. Mr. Walenda stated that with 9 policemen, they will want bedrooms next.
Mr. Bowie asked to AMEND THIS LINE TO $0. The motion CARRIED: 7 for, 2 opposed, 3 abstentions.
The amended motion was then voted and CARRIED: 7 for, 2 opposed, 3 abstentions.
#752 FIRE-LADDER TRUCK REPLACEMENT: J. Denning made a MOTION, second by C. Pitari, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S RECOMMENDATION.
Mr. Denning stated that this has the Board of Selectmen’s support. Ms. Corrow stated that this amount could be used for Capital Reserve or for the annual payment.
P. Simard made a MOTION, second by D. Jaquith, to TABLE THE FIRE-LADDER TRUCK REPLACEMENT UNTIL WE HAVE FINAL PLANS.
#755 FIRE-ENERGY UPGRADE: J. Denning made a MOTION, second by D. Jaquith, to ACCEPT THE SELECTMEN’S RECOMMENDATION.
Ms. Corrow stated that this is for an upgrade to the boiler and for some windows. Mr. Denning stated that the Board of Selectmen discussed this thoroughly. Mr. Bowie stated that we had several questions concerning the boiler and the bids. Mr. Walenda said that the material should only be $3 grand. Mr. Denning stated that no member of the Budget Committee is allowed to do any money items for the town. The Fire Dept. got the 3 required bids. Ms. Gordon added that they deserve to be energy efficient and mentioned that they have said that they like their location. Mr. Walenda stated that a boiler goes for $1804. and a burner for $360. The balance is miscellaneous to bring it to $3,000 for materials. He asked how they justify these bids.
Ms. Pitari asked if these are estimated quotes and how was the bidding done. Mr. Auger suggested that we wait on this project.
D. Jaquith made a MOTION, second by P. Simard, to TABLE #755. Carried with only 1 opposed. Mr. Bowie added that, as far as being on this committee and not being allowed to bid, he can verify this as he was not allowed to build the shed for Kelley Park for this reason.
Mr. Auger determined that we should hold off on the rest of the budget until next week.
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REVENUES:
Ms. Corrow explained the Revenue sheet, stating that the MS-4 is 2006 and the Estimate is 2007. We had a lot of activity in Land Use; she has bumped up Motor Vehicles. The Shared Revenue, Meals & Rooms and Highway Block are from the State. Flood Control is a one-time reimbursement. Other is for grants and is in and out. Income Depts. covers a variety of things.
Water and Sewer is in and out. Capital Reserve is the Highway truck. School Reimb. Is from the school for Kelley Park and the Public Access Reimb. is also from the school for their share on T-V. The Bike Path Reimb. is the finalization of the Grant.
Mr. Walenda asked why the figures are all rounded off. Ms. Corrow answered that the State requires them to round the figures off.
FIRE DEPT. PAPERS:
Ms. Corrow pointed out the 3 papers that she has distributed tonight involving Fire Dept. figures. One is for mileage. Mr. Carr stated that we need the dollar cost; for example, what it costs to run Engine 4. Ms. Pitari stated that the mileage is recorded every day. This could be multiplied by the amount of diesel and its cost. Mr. Carr would like to see something similar to what the Police Dept. provides.
TOWN MANAGER & BOARD OF SELECTMEN ISSUES:
Ms. Corrow distributed a Land Use Enforcement Officer Job Description sheet for the Committee members to look over. Mr. Denning stated that the goal of the Selectmen is to stabilize the budget.
OTHER:
Mr. Carr stated that he likes how the Board of Selectmen and the Town Manager have picked a goal and then backed into it. He understands that they are not including the County and School (having no control over these) but these have gone unchecked. If Bristol had its own School Board, we could control the School portion. Mr. Carr feels that the Selectmen should be looking at the School Budget. Mr. Denning stated that they can do nothing except to go to the meetings, express their opinion and vote. The School has increased a million a year over the last 3 years. The Selectmen are more active than you think and he would encourage everyone to attend the Feb. 9th meeting (the 1st deliberative session). Mr. Denning added that they are trying to be actively involved. Mr. Walenda stated that he and Mr. Auger attended the last School meeting and there were no Selectmen there. Ms. Jaquith asked the time and location of the Feb. 9th meeting. Mr. Favorite and Ms. Corrow answered that it is at 7:00 pm and they believe it will be held at the High School. Ms. Corrow added that she is concerned with the overall tax rate but her job is just for the Town portion. Mr. Favorite stated that a group of 5 have gotten together and talked about the School budget. They are trying to get as much information ready as possible.
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PARKING:
Mr. Walenda felt that the police should pay attention to where they park first before getting after the Budget Committee. Ms. Gordon expressed disappointment that they did not come in and speak to us instead of taking pictures. She felt that this would be a friendlier way to handle it knowing we were meeting here.
Mr. Preble mentioned that there has been a lot of parking in the Old Mill Stream parking lot and he wondered if we would be liable. Ms. Corrow stated that we would not be. Ms. Jaquith asked if we are maintaining the bike path and was told that the snowmobilers are doing the portion that they use. Mr. Bowie mentioned that there are also many parking at the Freudenberg dam.
PUBLIC HEARING FOR THE 2007 BUDGET:
Ms. Laferriere asked to have the date set so that she will have time to advertise it. Mr. Auger felt that we could hold it Feb. 5th, 7th, or 12th. After discussion, it was felt that Feb. 12th would be best and to be held at 7:00pm. If possible, we would like it held at the Middle School as there was standing room only here last year. Ms. Corrow will look into this.
Mr. Auger mentioned that if any committee members have a special interest in any part of the budget and would like to present that portion, to please let him know.
Mr. Auger stated that the next meeting will be Monday, January 29th and we shall continue deliberations.
With no other business, P. Simard made a motion, second by J. Denning, to adjourn at 9:38 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Jan Laferriere, recording secretary