Selectmen's Office                                                                    

SELECTMEN'S OFFICE

Town of Barnstead

P.O. Box 11

Center Barnstead, NH 03225

Minutes

June 29th, 2010

Present: Chairman James Barnard (JB), Vice Chairman Andy Houle (AH), David Kerr (DK), and Robert LaRoche (RL). Katherine Grillo was away on vacation and unable to attend.

Police Chief Ken Borgia called to report that the police had a house invasion situation and would not be able to attend the Valley Dam meeting that evening.

Chairman Barnard opened the meeting at 6:30 p.m. Following the Pledge of Allegiance, the Board signed the payroll, manifest, the minutes of 6/15/10 & 6/22/10, 1 abatement application, a letter to the forest fire director, a memo to the police department, a letter to a taxpayer, and 3 letters of hire.

At 6:33 p.m. Treasurer Terry asked the Board if she was to send drug and alcohol policies to the Library staff and it was determined she should. They will also be sent to the Budget Committee and Parks & Rec. DK questioned an invoice from Parks & Rec regarding an ice cream social that was being charged to the 2010 budget which is designated for sports programs, equipment etc. DK felt it would be more appropriate for the invoice to be paid from the Parks & Rec checkbook, not the budget. RL suggested setting aside the invoice and it would be discussed when the Board meets with Parks & Rec next week.

AH made a motion to allow the Chairman to sign the Reach the Beach Relay Race form on behalf of the Board and it was seconded by RL. It was announced that the racers will be stopping at Barton’s Lumber this year instead of Maple Street and the Elementary School. The motion passed with a unanimous vote.

Under New Business: AH made a motion to spend $871.22, which represents Barnstead’s share of the cost for the 6 town regional group (Suncook Valley Regional Town Assoc.) to have a survey done of the current health plan to see if a lower rate can be obtained. DK seconded the motion and JB cautioned everyone that when the information is obtained, they need to be sure the comparison is “apples to apples” so that employees don’t lose any services that are currently being offered. The motion passed with the following vote; Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, abstained.

At 6:45 p.m. the Board met with Jim Gallagher, of DES, Dam Bureau, and several residents of Valley Dam to discuss the issues and contract of that site. The contract between the State of NH, Water Resources Board and the Town was signed in 1984 following a vote at Town Meeting authorizing the Selectmen to do so. The contract states that the town will maintain a public recreation and boat launch at Valley Dam. JB told Mr. Gallagher that the local police don’t feel they can enforce it where the property belongs to the State. Gallagher explained that the State leases the site to the town, per the contract, and the Town can impose and enforce restrictions. JB asked why the site couldn’t just be closed to allow residents only and Gallagher told him that because it’s a State site, it must remain open to residents of the State. Dottie Sowards, who has been dealing with this problem for several years, explained the issues that continue to get worse each year, such as underage drinking, partying, obscenities, littering, roadway obstruction, property damage and the most recent, trees being cut and a zip line assembled across the water. Dottie added that she has called the State several times to report this but to no avail. AH felt the whole area should be just shutdown to everyone and asked about terminating the lease. Gallagher explained that the lease could be terminated, but the area would still remain open and there would not be local enforcement. DK stated that he did not see any advantage to terminating the lease and giving it back to the State. AH asked if they could have restrictive signage and hefty fines imposed and Gallagher said he didn’t see why they couldn’t.  Dottie Sowards reminded the group that they had posted signs in the past, but that didn’t work. RL felt that putting up restrictions and having the police enforce would be the best way to go.

After much debate, it was determined that the site would be open from 7 am to 7 pm, there would be fishing, and car-top boats allowed, minimal designated parking areas, no swimming allowed, no alcohol, no littering, no loitering, and no parking in or obstructing roadway. The police will be asked to step up their enforcement. DK felt it would be better to not have any parking but residents on the corner of Oxbow and Valley Dam were opposed, as the vehicles would end up parking on their property. Jim Gallagher stated that he believed these restrictions would not be inconsistent with the lease but did mention that a letter should be sent to the Dept. of Environmental Services stating the above restrictions, which the Board agreed to. The residents thanked the Board of Selectmen for their assistance and one member of the public commented that this was more than what the previous Board’s had done. DK stated that in the past they have had problems with other departments not enforcing even though signs have been posted.

At 7:40 p.m. the Selectmen met with Nick Rott and Eileen Murley, members of Barnstead Fire Rescue Inc. (BFRI) who stated that they were still addressing some issues that have arisen after the fire departments transition to a fully municipal organization. JB asked when their name change would take place and Nick stated that the members were working on it and that he thought their name would be changed to Barnstead Fire Association.

Nick told the Board that the reason for this evening meeting was because they had received a Memorial Day donation, in the form of a check which was made out to Barnstead Fire Rescue and they wanted to know how the Board wanted to handle this. Nick stated that he felt the donations in the past have come in with the intent that it’s for the fire department. JB, agreeing that the intentions of the donations were probably for the fire department, but realizing that the department was now a municipal department and had to be accountable, suggested that they contact the person that gave them the check and ask their purpose. JB added that if it was meant for BFRI, then there was no problem, but if it was meant for the Town (ambulance or fire) it should go into an expendable trust (which the Board was thinking of creating) that would be designated for the fire department whereby if the fire department and chief felt a piece of equipment etc. was needed, then the funds could be utilized for that purpose. JB stated that he didn’t believe the intent of the donation was to just go into the general fund and Nick agreed. JB then suggested that perhaps something should be put in the paper explaining the difference to the public and Nick stated that he was disappointed, that he didn’t believe the people intent of the donations was for the firemen to do what they want with it. Nick added that it was only a small amount, usually about $300 - $500 per year, that they have no other source of funding and that they have no other role than to support the Fire Dept. RL suggested doing fund raisers and Nick that for right now, they are just trying to complete the transition.

DK commented that he had suggested the Expendable Trust to JB as a way to designate the funds for the fire department. DK mentioned that people put where donations are to be sent to in their obituaries, so that could be addressed. Nick told the Board that he has no control over that. AH stated that he would like to see BFRI in charge of the trust and JB asked Karen Montgomery (as Trustee of the Trust Funds) to comment. Karen explained that the Trustees of the Trust Funds are governed by the RSA’s and the Trustees can only spend out on order of the Board of Selectmen (and/or Town Meeting vote). Karen added that any monies coming to the town and made out to the town, such as this donation (per RSA’s) must be held either by the Treasurer or the Trustees and can’t be held by a private company.

RL told Nick and Eileen that if they wanted to keep the money, they need to send the person a letter (or call them) and have them rewrite the check to BFRI.  Eileen Murley told the Board that in the past, checks have come in made out any number of ways (Barnstead Parade Fire Co., Barnstead Fire Rescue, Barnstead Company 1, BFRI, etc) and that their bank never had a problem with cashing or depositing them to the BFRI account. DK said, “So, in effect, you’re saying the checks can be cashed and deposited into your account”? and Eileen said, “Yes”. Nick asked if the Board’s intent was to set up an expendable trust and JB told him that it was. Nick said, “So you don’t want us to have any control of the money”? JB told Nick that that was not the issue, that there are rules to be followed as a municipal department. AH asked Nick if BFRI would be changing its name to Barnstead Fire Association and Nick stated that it was the intent. AH told him that all the checks need to be made out to that name. Eileen said that that was where the problem lied, that people are creatures of habit and they continue to make checks out in various names. It was again suggested that the donators be contacted to find out what their intent was and to publicize the changes so people could make the choice of where they wanted the donation to go. JB said that he would ask the Fire Chief what his thoughts were on it, as the Chief was meeting with them next. Karen Montgomery suggested contacting the Town’s auditor to get clarification for everyone and it was agreed that he would be called the next day.

At 8:00 p.m. Officer Frank Grow delivered a letter and documentation from Chief Borgia regarding the account setup for the Fonality company (voice over IP phone system that the police dept. is switching to). DK asked if there was any documentation to be signed regarding the switch over and account setup and Frank said there was not. JB asked if there was any agreement or contract that the Board needed to sign and again Frank said there was not. JB & DK expressed concerns about this, and Frank told them that if you want to end the service, you just end it.

At 8:05 p.m. the Board met with the fulltime Fire Chief, Mark Tetreault for a follow-up after two weeks on the job. JB briefly explained about the donation(s) to the Fire Dept. and the Board’s intention of an expendable trust fund. Chief Tetreault commented that the checks need to differentiate between the “Town” and the “Association”. Turning the conversation back to Chief Tetreault’s first two weeks on the job, the Chief told the Board that they have a great group of people; that a lot of small towns have a large turnout of young people, but our career staff is here. The Chief stated that Brian Cottrell is working with Gilmanton to see about a joint effort for a combined explorer program (Gilmanton currently has one in place).

Chief Tetreault told the Selectmen that Bethal Builders looked at the Parade Station regarding the housing issue and will give the Board plans to look. One suggestion was a full dormer out back, with a doghouse dormer on the front and bunks upstairs. Tetreault suggested opening it up to house students and JB asked about moving the career staff there. Chief Tetreault felt that it would not be ideal, as it would put the career staff that much further away from the north end of town. The discussion turned to the need of a station in the north area and AH stated that until grant money was available it wasn’t likely to pass. JB told the group that the previous Board had agreed to correct the living situation first and that they were told it was unlivable and unfixable. DK stated that they did do a community survey (in the past) and when it comes to the fire station, it needs to be determined if a third station is needed. DK went on to say that they have problems with the two stations they have now (living quarters, doesn’t meet code, etc.) and that having a third building does no good if there aren’t any people to staff it. DK added that the town doesn’t have the money to staff two stations never mind a third.

JB asked the Chief if he had seen other small towns with this much equipment (as Barnstead has) and he told the Board it was not an easy question to answer, as Barnstead has specialty equipment (one apparatus can do the function of two). Tetreault stated that when applying for grants, they like to see 2 vehicles exchanged for 1 as it scores higher. The Chief added that three stations might be difficult to support and thought perhaps the Center Station could move to a North location and keep the one in the Parade. DK told the Chief that in prior conversations with the past Fire Chief, they were told there was a real shortage of call people in the Locke Lake area (which is the area where the other station would be) and that it’s no good having a station in Locke Lake if there are no people to man it. Tetreault said that he would go further north, but not extreme north.

Chief Tetreault passed out a draft organizational chart, stating that he and June looked for an existing one but were unable to find one. Karen Montgomery pulled the most current one from the Town’s files (a few years old) and handed it out. The Chief said that he would propose keeping the staff at the title levels they are at and then filling other areas, adding that he would like two companies for coverage at each station. Tetreault mentioned having someone in charge other than himself, and DK pointed out that if there are two people during a shift, and one is a Lt., there would only be one person to supervise. DK commented that Chief Tetreault is there 40 hours a week and the Chief said that he is not there all the time (training, conferences etc.). DK told the group that virtually all the work (80%) is ambulance and felt that a person could be designated to do procurement, another to do something else, etc., adding that personnel are there all day (24 hour shifts), that they have the time (statistics show 1 ½ calls per day) and it should be part of their job. Chief Tetreault stated that he agreed with that and DK commented that the Chief was talking more tactical stuff. JB stated that he saw both points, that the Chief needed to get settled in more, but that he (JB) didn’t want people just sitting at the computer play games etc., he wanted to keep them active. Chief Tetreault told the group that he saw their point, but that it may not be just two people at the station, that if a call comes in, you could have 6-8 people there and you need someone in charge.

JB asked if there were any glitches at this point and Tetreault told him there wasn’t at this point, but he was looking at the building and they may need to do something to keep it functional. Tetreault stated that there was an issue with the window on the second floor not being large enough and JB said a larger window should be put in. The Chief will contact Deputy Chief Mulcahey regarding the roof and JB said that he would rather see a repair, if possible, rather than a whole roof replacement. Chief Tetreault told the Board that he would talk to some roofers and if the outcome is that they are throwing away good money after bad, he would be back in front of the Board. DK expressed concern with the total fixes of the building, citing window problems, electrical panel issues, no insulation etc., and adding that the town just took over the building, so they weren’t aware of what had taken place before. Chief Tetreault told the Board that he just didn’t want to put money into it if it was not fixable or viable.

The next discussion was regarding the pay matrix that Chief Tetreault was asked to review. He handed out a draft of the matrix with proposed changes to the call matrix placing the appropriate call personnel’s rank, title, and experience in the correct order. Tetreault asked the Board if they processed a change in status when it occurs (ex. if a call fire fighter obtains an Emt status) or if it’s done at the beginning of the year. The Board told him that it is processed when it occurs and that he just needed to present it to the Board for their approval. Chief Tetreault asked if it was the same procedure if someone did not keep their credentials up to date, wondering if that person’s status would then lower them to the appropriate level on the scale and again the Board said it would. DK explained that all original personnel files are kept at the Selectmen’s Office and the Chief stated that he had been going over the files, found some inaccuracies and has asked Director Mason for official drafts on each employee.

Chief Tetreault handed out a copy of Londonderry’s impact fee and the Board will review it next week. The discussion turned to the ambulance replacement, with Chief Tetreault mentioning that some of our personnel went to the show in Springfield to look at ambulances. He stated that they have put together a committee to look at ambulances and that Gilmanton is also looking at getting a new one. The hope is to mirror the purchase and save money. JB mentioned that the biggest complaint from people is the ambulance sitting idling at various locations. Chief Tetreault stated that since he’s been there, the ambulance is taken to the store less than once a day, but it is used for vehicle checks etc. JB stated that he would like the longevity of an ambulance to be longer than five years and Chief Tetreault said that it would be especially where they’ll have an older ambulance and a new one.

Chief Tetreault asked the Board what level of degree they wanted when doing a complete inventory and JB suggested that he speak with BFRI, feeling that an inventory most likely had been done. Karen explained that now that the department is municipal, the town’s auditor needs an inventory list. JB told the Chief that as long as he has one complete by the end of the year, with a copy to this office, it should be fine. DK asked what Londonderry did for an inventory level and Tetreault stated that generally, it was anything over $1,000 and had a serial number. The Board agreed that this would be the procedure.

The Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (a) at 9:10 p.m. on a motion by AH, seconded by RL with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 9:22 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by RL, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

The Selectmen will host a “meet & greet” social event on July 12, 2010 from 6-8 p.m. at the Parade Station for the public to meet the new Fire Chief, Mark Tetreault.

The Board reviewed an invoice from LGC for $20 due to the non-attendance and non-cancellation of a class that a Selectman was supposed to attend. The group was in agreement that the Board Member would be asked to pay the fee directly. The Board also reviewed a letter from former employee, Richard Niolet and an exit interview will be scheduled.

On a motion by AH, seconded by RL the Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (c) at 9:34 p.m. with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Robert LaRoche. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 9:46 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by RL, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

At 9:50 p.m. the Board reviewed a proposal from Rick Belanger for two pieces of equipment at the Highway Garage. The issue will be addressed next week, as two other people are expected to send in proposals.

The group reviewed miscellaneous correspondence and discussed legal issues.

On a motion by AH, seconded by RL the Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (b) at 9:50 p.m. with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Robert LaRoche. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 9:55 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by RL, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting. 

The meeting was adjourned at 9:56 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Karen Montgomery,
Selectmen’s Secretary

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SELECTMEN'S OFFICE

Town of Barnstead

P.O. Box 11

Center Barnstead, NH 03225

Minutes

June 22nd, 2010

Present: Chairman James Barnard (JB), Vice Chairman Andy Houle (AH), David Kerr (DK), and Robert LaRoche (RL). Katherine Grillo was away on vacation and unable to attend.

Chairman Barnard opened the meeting at 6:30 p.m. Following the Pledge of Allegiance, the Board signed the payroll, manifest, the minutes of 6/8/10, a pay rate form, a letter to Lakes Region Mutual Fire Aid, a memo to the police department, and 3 letters of hire.

The Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (e) at 6:31 p.m. on a motion by AH, seconded by DK with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 7:57 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by DK, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

At 7:58 p.m. the Board addressed the bids they received last week for various equipment at the Highway Garage. Road Agent Chris Carazzo (CC) felt they could get more money if they scrapped the equipment and suggested the Board refuse all bids. CC stated that only one bid met the minimum bid requirement of $500 (Brian White’s $500 bid for the Ingram Roller). DK commented that the town paid $1000 for it at auction 10 years ago and that it’s just been sitting at the Highway Garage for years. DK added that he wanted to see the place cleaned up. CC mentioned that he had contacted a couple places and one outfit offered a higher price for the equipment. JB informed him that the town had advertised for bids, which anyone could have submitted and they had to deal with the bids they received. CC felt that they were giving the equipment away and AH & RL agreed with him. DK stated that he was embarrassed that the Board was just now getting this information (about other companies offering more money).

Len Gilman, one of the bidders, told the Board that this other company had a chance to bid but didn’t and they should not allow this after the fact. He asked that in the future they put the minimum bid amount in the advertisement and added that the town would have to strip the vehicles down (removing tires, draining oil, etc.) before the scrap places would take it. DK stated that it would be an expense to the town to strip the vehicles and felt they should just get rid of them. CC felt the town could use the parts from the dump truck. RL felt that somehow they had screwed up in the bid advertisement, but CC and DK reminded him that the ad stated that the Selectmen had the right to accept or reject any and all bids. DK suggested they accept the bid for the roller and the REO but reject the bid for the dump truck.

AH made a motion to accept Len Gilman’s bid of $401.25 for the Reo and DK seconded it, which passed with a unanimous vote. AH made a motion to reject Len Gilman’s bid of $451.25 for the 1981 Ford Dump Truck and RL seconded it, which passed with a unanimous vote. AH made a motion to accept Brian White’s bid of $500.00 for the Ingram Roller and DK seconded it, which passed with a unanimous vote.

Len Gilman asked the Board to keep the dump truck and not let another company or person have it. AH suggested giving Len the 1st refusal on the dump truck after it has been stripped (if the town wanted to get rid of it) and the Board agreed. DK asked about the 1986 pickup (which no one bid on) and CC mentioned $250 - $300, even though the minimum amount he had set for every item was $500. Len Gilman expressed an interest and JB wondered if they needed to advertise again, but DK told him the Board can accept anything they want for the item. The Board informed Mr. Gilman he could submit an offer for the pickup when he dropped off the money for the Reo.

Viola and Paul Russell next addressed the Board with a concern about their neighbors’ foundation drain, which was running into the towns ditch. CC told the Board he checked it out and the Winters’ were replacing an existing drain that flows into a stream that runs between the properties. Mr. Russell stated that, originally, there was a brook running through the property, then the Winter’s built on the property and now the stream runs under their house. Viola added that the Winter’s drain runs down into the Waskevich’s culvert and then down to her ditch on Dam Site (that is going through Hazard Mitigation) to be repaired. Viola added that she’s lost her whole beach area in the front, hasn’t been able to use her boat and she’s being taxed for a beach she doesn’t have. The Russell’s were told that the Dept. of Environmental Services enforce streams and wetland violations. The Board also told her they were still awaiting approval from the State for the Hazard Mitigation projects.

On a motion by AH, seconded by RL the Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (c) at 8:33 p.m. with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Robert LaRoche. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 8:50 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by DK, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

At 8:52 p.m. the Board briefly discussed the applications for the Highway Dept. position and unanimously accepted a late submission. CC will review all applications and will submit three candidate names to the Board. AH felt that it would be better to go with two part time people rather than one fulltime person, but CC told him that his budget included the cost of a fulltime employee. AH stated that they were looking for ways to cut costs in the budget to allow for raises next year and CC said, “Who says we need raises; I want more workers”. The Selectmen asked CC to submit information for hazard mitigation projects for next year, as the deadline had been extended until July 1, 2010. CC felt that the most important mitigation project would be Depot Street. CC announced that the paving is complete (for what was budgeted for) and that the company was coming back to shim an area.

Under New Business: (9:09 p.m.) The Board reviewed a request from the Waldron’s to reinstate their elderly exemption, but after written comment from the assessing department along with a copy of a deed transferring ownership out of their names (the Waldron’s now reside outside of Barnstead), the Board denied the request. AH made a motion not to reinstate the Waldron’s tax exemption based upon the information provided and it was seconded by RL and passed with a unanimous vote.

The Board next reviewed a letter from a resident on Lower Suncook Lake asking that the water level be dropped and he was referred back to the State as they are in control of that body of water. DK will ask Lakes Region Planning if the removal of asbestos shingles would be eligible for grant funding under the Brownsfield study. The Board agreed to go forward with the insurance comparison through the Suncook Valley Regional Town Association (SVRTA), (Barnstead’s cost would be approximately $800).  JB informed the group that when the SVRTA had discussed purchasing ammunition as a whole, (noting that all other towns were represented by police chiefs or officers except Barnstead) it was mentioned that there really is only one vendor used for ammunition.

DK pointed out to the Board that there were three more invoices submitted (from the police) that violated the procurement policy. DK reminded the group that purchases over $500 require 3 other bids to be attached to the invoice. He added that the Board had received and approved a request from Chief Borgia to purchase uniforms (over $500) but Borgia still did not attach the other bids to the invoice. DK questioned why no other Board Members catch these things, pointed out that AH was very big on policies. DK also reminded the Board that two weeks ago he was promised (by Chief Borgia) that copies of the bids (for an invoice from 2 weeks ago) would be sent over, but DK has never gotten them. RL stated that if anyone is not following policy, the Board should send them a letter and AH agreed. RL added that if obtaining the bids was too much work, maybe they should change the policy to $1,000. It was determined that a memo would be sent to all department heads insisting that the policy be followed to avoid remedial action.

The Selectmen approved Chief Borgia’s vacation request. DK referred to a newspaper article regarding the Loudon Speedway and officers double-dipping. This led to a brief about salaried personnel using vacation time in order to properly perform these extra details that are not a requirement of their Barnstead job.

The group reviewed miscellaneous correspondence and discussed legal issues.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:35 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Karen Montgomery,
Selectmen’s Secretary

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SELECTMEN'S OFFICE

Town of Barnstead

P.O. Box 11

Center Barnstead, NH  03225

Minutes

June 15th, 2010

Present: Chairman James Barnard (JB), Vice Chairman Andy Houle (AH), Katherine Grillo (KG), David Kerr (DK), and Robert LaRoche (RL).

Chairman Barnard opened the meeting at 6:30 p.m. Following the Pledge of Allegiance, the Board signed the payroll, manifest, 1 abatement application, the PA-28 Inventory Form, a memo to the police department, and several letters.

Two bids were received in response to the ad for various Highway Dept. equipment as follows; Brian White - $500 for the Ingram roller and Len Gilman (HER & W) - $401.25 for the Reo, $451.25 for the 1981 Ford and $371.25 for the Ingram Roller. The Board decided to wait on their decision.

The Selectmen approved the request of First Student Inc. to allow a 120 day window if the bus lease is terminated. The Board next discussed the invoice for the purchase of fish for the fishing derby that was put on by Parks & Rec. DK stated that it was over $500 and the procurement policy requires bids to come before the Selectmen for anything over $500. DK added that the money was being taken from the Town budget, (Parks & Rec line item) and felt it should be from the Park & Rec revolving fund. Both KG and RL thought it was suppose to come from the revolving fund. RL (who is also on the Parks & Rec Committee) stated that he went before the Parks & Rec Committee for the derby and felt the Board should talk to the Committee. After a brief discussion, AH made a motion to send the invoice back to Parks & Rec and have them pay for the invoice from their revolving fund. KG seconded the motion and it was a passed with a 4-1 vote (RL abstained). DK mentioned that one of the phone lines for the Fire Dept. was charging 16 cents per minute and suggested a change to MCI at the town’s rate of 3 cents per minute.

The meeting was opened to public input at 6:43 p.m. and Gordon Preston thanked the ladies at the Town Hall for assisting him in averting a crisis by availing the meeting room to the prospective buyers of the Timco Property after discovering the Timco gate was locked and inaccessible. The purchase, if successful, could mean new business for the town, with a potential of 150 jobs. Gordon next praised the work of Road Agent Chris Carazzo and crew on the Cooke Road, stating that Barnstead’s end was now as good as the New Durham end and should not need anything else for probably 7 years. The improvements, which included replacing culverts, widening the road, etc. were a requirement of the use of the impact fees that were collected for that purpose.  Gordon felt that the Cooke Road improvement / impact fee requirement was important to mention as the neighbor (Cherne) had chastised Chris for fixing the road because they thought Chris was doing the improvements for OSG Paintball.

Gordon next stated that he wanted to address the Cherne’s complaint about him (which he called “close to slander”) and he read aloud excerpts from the Cherne’s letter to the Selectmen (complaining about the OSG Paintball facility) where they stated that “what was most disturbing is that Gordon Preston was a Selectmen while he and his son David built a 34 acre amusement park (OSG Paintball) behind the backs and under the tables of the town office”. Gordon, visibly upset by the remarks, told the Board that he took major exception to the Cherne’s implication that he used his public office for any wrongdoing. Gordon stated that not once had he ever used his position in public office for himself; adding that once when he was an alternate on the Planning Board he recused himself because the subject matter was regarding OSG Paintball. Bill Haynes commented that he recalled that incident. Gordon went on to say that his theatrical group (Hampstead Players) have put on plays etc. for the school as well, with no charge to the town.

Referring to Mrs. Cherne’s statement that she’s had many conversations with Gordon (and his arrogant behavior), Gordon told the Board that it was absolutely not true; that he’d spoken only once to Mrs. Cherne when she first moved in, offering her neighborly assistance. The conversation then turned back to the purchase of the Timco property and JB thanked Gordon, on behalf of the Board of Selectmen for his continued efforts with Timco and bringing business to the town.

At 6:58 p.m. Wynette DeGroot, the Town’s risk management representative from the Local Government Center (LGC) met with the Board and presented handouts. Wynette gave a brief overview of the many services LGC provides including the LGC legal line and the employee law hotline, commenting that where the town did not have a Town Administrator, Karen Montgomery handled all those areas, was very well versed and that she (Karen) knew where to get the information or answers to any questions. Wynette told the Board that vicarious liability fall on the Selectmen, that it’s the Selectmen’s responsibility to make sure things are done appropriate and that policies and procedures are followed. She stressed the need to avoid negligence, pointing out that department heads are also responsible.

Wynette spoke about items discussed at the Labor Board workshop she had attended recently (DK and Treasurer Terry were also in attendance) pointing out that all volunteers needed to be listed on a roster and when KG asked who maintained the roster, Wynette told her the Selectmen’s Office is responsible for it. Wynette also pointed out that you absolutely cannot have someone volunteer for the same thing they are getting paid for (ex. a policeman cannot volunteer to do a “shift” because it the job they regularly get paid to do). Wynette said that volunteers are protected (under the town’s liability) as long as they are doing work within the scope of their ability.  She further stressed the necessity of complete background checks. RL mentioned that when he takes care of the ice rink, he has a list of volunteers who help and Wynette told him that was okay, but the list needs to be here at the Selectmen’s Office on file. AH questioned the group of ladies (from the Ctr. Barnstead Church) that are volunteering to put in flowers around the Town Hall and Wynette explained to him that if it is not an organized group or committee that is scheduled to this work, then a roster is all that is necessary. The group discussed several different scenarios and Wynette stressed the importance of workshops and training. Wynette told the group that insuring that they have a good hiring process and following State and Federal regulations are the most important things. She added that when hiring, you must document in writing, the benefits, rate of pay, holidays etc. and it must be given to the employee along with a copy in the persons file.

While discussing the importance of proper interview questions, JB mentioned that one member did slip and ask the wrong question once, but the person answered it and was okay with it. Wynette cautioned the Board about the statute of limitations saying that even if the person answered the question and was okay with it, they could still come back later and sue. Wynette next told the Board to make sure they don’t hire anyone as an independent contractor that should be classified as an employee and referenced the twelve rules that define what would constitute an independent contractor status. Wynette also stressed the importance of updating the personnel policy yearly to keep up with the new laws (pointing out again that this would be a Town Administrator’s job). The group discussed other topics such as discipline, discharge, the Joint Loss Committee requirements, workplace violence, and performance appraisals. Wynette mentioned that anyone who drives for the Town (even if they just pick up the mail) should attend the driving workshop at LGC. Regarding accidents with town vehicles, DK stated that he wanted the department head to investigate each accident, to get witness statements, take pictures etc. and Wynette will see if she has a policy to cover that. Her last comments to the Board were that employees have to be responsible and tow the line when it comes to policies and procedures but the Selectmen also need to make sure they do. AH asked Wynette specifically if a Selectman is a Selectman when walk out the door (or when not at the Selectmen meetings) and she cautioned each one that individually, they have no power, but that they are elected officials until their term is up and must keep that in mind. The Board thanked Wynette for meeting with them.

At 8:05 p.m. the Selectmen met with David Preston, owner of the OSG Paintball property on Cooke Rd. David presented the Board with handouts of various documents and explained that the 1991 document approved by the Planning Board and ZBA shows the original playing area as 34 acres and that it was to be in the woods. In July 6, 2000, David went before the Planning Board to add another area, (the hayfield / netted area), then again on July 11 for an expansion into the hayfield, all of which was unanimously approved. David noted that in 2006 the assessor had made a notation on the property record indicating that 19 acres out of the 34 was being used. David also added that the State has deemed that the property should be classified as a Discretionary Easement rather than current use as it is a recreational area. The Board thanked him for all the information he had provided and told him that a public hearing was being scheduled, as required, for the Discretionary Easement.

The Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (e) at 8:20 p.m. on a motion by AH, seconded by KG with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; Kathy Grillo, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 8:50 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by DK, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

The Board met with the new Fire Chief, Mark Tetreault and Chairman Barnard swore him into office. The group had a lengthy discussion determining various goals they would like to see accomplished, the equipment, cisterns, fire wards, and the space needs of both fire stations. RL excused himself from the meeting at 9:02 p.m. as he had to leave. JB told the Chief that his work schedule was the Chief’s decision but did ask that he continue to provide the Board with a copy of the monthly work schedule. JB announced that the Baysider Reporter, Brendan Berube would like to do a story on the new chief. DK also asked the Fire Chief to review the pay matrix, volunteers and rank structure. Mark asked if the ranks came over with the transition from BFRI to municipal and JB stated that the Board has allowed a couple upgrades but with the stipulation that Mark has the final say. JB added that Mark should make recommendations that he feels are necessary.

JB next asked for an evaluation of the dry hydrants. Mark told the Board that he had spoken with Chief Lockwood of Gilmanton regarding a dry hydrant on the boundary line between Barnstead and Gilmanton that might need replacing and perhaps the two towns could split the cost. The Board asked that he find out the cost. JB asked Mark if he did code enforcement and Mark told him he did, but that there was a difference between fire code enforcement and building inspection enforcement. JB asked him if he was familiar with the other codes and Mark said that he was. The group discussed AT&T installing a tower locally and the possibilities of all departments using one carrier. The Board will send a letter to Lakes Region Mutual Fire informing them of the new Chief. Mark mentioned that a grant regarding hiring recruitment will be available in July and would need the Selectmen’s approval. The Board will meet with Mark in two weeks and a “meet and greet” social event will be finalized. Mark left the meeting at 9:40 a.m.

Under New Business: DK mentioned that the roof at the police station was a temporary fix and has not been fixed, but yet the Board approved a new phone system when the old phone system worked well. He also stated that there’s leakage around the ac units as there isn’t any insulation etc. and AH told the group he would fix it. JB suggested getting bids for both the roof at the police station and the center fire station.

KG announced that she would be out of the country for eleven days and would not be attending the ZBA meeting. AH made a motion to make DK the ZBA Alternate and it passed with a unanimous vote. JB announced that Old Home Day has been cancelled this year due to things not getting done on time and members quitting. The Old Home Day Committee asked that the money be encumbered for the fireworks and that they not have to pay for ½ the cost of the band scheduled for the Old Home Day event. DK commented that Parks & Rec had already booked the band for that evening and reminded the Board that the other ½ of the money for the band could come from another line item. Karen Montgomery suggested that Parks & Rec look at their line items to see if the money could come from their budget.

AH made a motion to keep the money in the Old Home Day account and not be spent for the Band Concert. JB clarified that the Old Home Day account is a separate account and then called for the vote, which was recorded as the following; JB, yes; AH, yes; KG, abstained; DK, yes (DK stated that he agreed with not using the Old Home Day money from their checking account because the Selectmen did not have the authority to vote on the Committee’s separate account). A memo will be sent to Parks & Rec to see if they are able to get the funds for the band concert from another line item in their budget.

On a motion by AH, seconded by DK the Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (c) at 10:02 p.m. with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; Kathy Grillo, yes; and David Kerr, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 10:05 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by DK, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

The meeting was adjourned at 10:06 p.m.                                                 

Respectfully submitted by Karen Montgomery,

Selectmen’s Secretary

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SELECTMEN'S OFFICE

Town of Barnstead

P.O. Box 11

Center Barnstead, NH  03225

Minutes

June 8th, 2010

Present: Chairman James Barnard (JB), Vice Chairman Andy Houle (AH), Katherine Grillo (KG), David Kerr (DK), and Robert LaRoche (RL).

Chairman Barnard opened the meeting at 6:30 p.m. Following the Pledge of Allegiance, the Board signed the payroll, manifest, the minutes of 5/25/10 & 6/1/10, 1 timber tax warrant, 1 gravel tax warrant, a vendor license, and several letters.

JB addressed the credit card policy, pointing out the changes that had been made and suggested that the credit limit for charging be reduced from $1000 to $499. AH made a motion to change the credit limit to $499 and DK seconded the motion, which passed with a unanimous vote. AH made a motion to approve the credit card policy with the changes and KG seconded it, which passed with a unanimous vote. AH made a motion to have the Chairman sign the fireworks display for Camp Fatima on behalf of the Board and DK seconded the motion, which passed with a unanimous vote.

AH addressed a memo from the Planning Board regarding the Farmers Market, stating that he felt they should not have to obtain a peddler license. JB read aloud the Town’s ordinance that states certain groups that were exempt. AH made a motion that if the Farmers Market falls under the exempt “club” status there would be no fee. RL seconded the motion and a brief discussion followed, with the Board determining that they would contact the Farmers Market to see what status they are under.

DK pointed out to the Board that there was an invoice from the police department of over $500 and according to the town’s policy, 3 bids were to be obtained and copies were to be attached. KG commented that Chief Borgia was coming in later that evening and they could just ask him. DK again pointed out that the invoice was not accompanied by any documentation. JB informed the Board that in the legal file an application for the Fire Rescue position had been submitted after the closing date. DK noted that the person submitting the application had just been notified that he had lost his job the day after the closing date. RL made a motion to accept the application given the circumstances. KG seconded the motion and it passed with a unanimous vote.

The meeting was opened to public input at 6:44 p.m. and Amy McSherry of Valley Dam Road expressed concerns about the heavy usage, traffic, and underage drinking at the facility. She further commented that it was a private road and JB said, “It still is”. DK told the group it was not and KM explained that it had passed at town meeting to have a portion of the road Class V. JB explained that the Board was aware of all the activity and that an appointment was being scheduled with the Head of the Dam Bureau, Jim Gallagher, to discuss the Town’s options.

Bill Evans, Planning Board Member, mentioned that AT&T was at the Planning Board meeting on Thursday and they will offer some assistance to the town for whip antennas (AT&T is putting up a tower in town). Bill thought the Board might want to get the departments together and see what the needs are. JB commented that it would be a good opportunity to get all the town departments on one cellphone plan. 

Bill’s next informed the Board that anyone at the Planning Board on Thursday evening regarding OSG Paintball, heard that the 2006 meeting was an approved issue (for the paintball). Bill told the group that it was not approved. David Preston, who was present, told the Selectmen that he had a letter with the Planning Board’s signatures on it (regarding that 2006 approval) and he was in the process of having each person certify their signatures. He also stated that the new castle was just a rebuild of the old castle, in the same area as the old castle and he would provide documentation on that as well. David added that people might want to read the paper on Thursday. David next told the group that he’s been safely operating and open for 10 years and the complaints from neighbors in 18 years have been only two. JB suggested that David forward copies of all this to the Selectmen and Bill Evans objected, saying that until David comes before the Planning Board, he didn’t want to hear it. Bill commented that he knew this sounded crass, but that was how it was. JB told Bill that if the Selectmen receive a complaint they have to look into it and Bill interjected, saying that it goes to the code enforcer and the code enforcer takes action. It was mentioned that code enforcement issues fall under the Selectmen’s authority.

The Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (c) at 6:58 p.m. on a motion by AH, seconded by DK with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; Kathy Grillo, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 7:05 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by DK, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

The Selectmen met with Fab Cusson of Bethal Builders at 7:07 p.m. Fab explained to the Board that he had obtained a building permit in 2008, had plans to build a house and had a buyer but the deal went bad, so the house didn’t get built. Before the permit expired, Fab approached the Building Inspector, who was Paul Richardson and a reinstatement of the permit and a fee of $100 was agreed upon, as long as the reinstatement wasn’t holding anyone up from being able to obtain a building permit for that year. Fab told the group that due to the economy he was unable to build a house on the lot this year and so he sent in his $100 (to the new building inspector, Geoff Fossett) asking for a reinstatement. Fab stated that he was informed by the new inspector that the whole $800 fee (new house fee) would be assessed. Fab told the Selectmen he didn’t feel it would be right to charge him $800 all over again and asked the Board to consider his request.

JB explained that they had reviewed the permits and documentation and according to the statutes, cannot charge for unreasonable costs through permits. (The original cost of $800 covers the inspections etc. involved in a new house permit). JB asked if Fab knew whether or not the house would be built this year and Fab told him he’d like to say yes, but doesn’t know for sure. JB explained that where he was charged the $100 reinstatement fee before, that’s what the Board would charge this time, but went on to explain that it may not happen next year. Fab, questioned the spirit of the policy where the current Zoning language that says if construction isn’t started in 6 months (of the permit date) and the work not completed in one year, the permit is revoked and the whole fee is charged all over again. The Board agreed that it would have to be looked at for next year. KG felt that the Building Inspector should sit in and review the whole thing (when the moratorium was put on), but that he should also take into consideration the economic changes.

DK asked Fab if he had done anything to the property, or had an excavator come in and Fab said that he had the stumps removed and had it cleared. DK commented that the construction had been started then. JB mentioned again that the Ordinance would be looked at and that possible changes could be done next year.

Karen Montgomery told the Selectmen that John Dionne, of Reach the Beach Relay Race (an annual runner’s event that comes through Barnstead in the early hours of the morning) had gotten permission to use the Timco property and was seeking the Boards approval. Karen added that Mr. Dionne requested to use Maple Street as the primary street but would consider Rte. 126 to access Depot Street. Following a discussion regarding the problems in the past with the race, the Board agreed that Chairman JB could contact Mr. Dionne and have him look into utilizing property along Rte. 28 rather than coming through the center of town.

The Board met with Chief Borgia and Officer Frank Grow regarding their proposed new phone system, which changes from the existing PBX system to a Voice Over Internet provider (VoIP). Before the phone discussion ensued, DK asked Chief Borgia about the invoice for Belknap Communications and the lack of the bids that were supposed to accompany the invoice (per town policy). Borgia explained that they have been doing business with this company for a long time, that they did go through 2-way for comparing costs and had called other vendors. He stated that he would provide the Board with the information.

Officer Grow handed out explanations opposing the recommendations given earlier (via e-mail) from the representative of Vanticore, the company that the State of NH uses for VoIP. JB asked if they would have to buy the equipment with this new system (Fonality) and Grow stated they would. JB informed the group that he was opposed to giving out a town bank account to anyone (Fonality requires a bank account be opened, with money deposited monthly, so that Fonality can withdraw the payment). JB next stated that the police department would have to keep copper wire and Grow said they would not. Grow recounted the steps leading up to today’s meeting, saying that when he was originally asked to look into the State’s system, he contacted Vanticore, and was told that Karen had already spoken to someone from Vanticore. The Vanticore representative, Kaitlin, contacted both Grow and Montgomery via e-mail and set up a meeting. Grow went on to say that Karen had contacted Kaitlin, changed the time of the meeting and he wasn’t given the information until later and that he missed the meeting. Karen Montgomery reminded the group that the Selectmen had asked her to join the Vanticore meeting, where they were interested in looking at a phone system for the whole town and all the records were here at the Town Hall. Karen added that Kaitlin was coordinating the meeting, sending e-mails to both Karen and Grow. The original meeting was set for June 8, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. and when Kaitlin e-mailed it to Karen, Karen asked her to change it to 1:00 p.m., as Karen leaves at 2:15 p.m. Kaitlin said she would change it to 1:00p.m. and e-mailed the time change to Grow.  JB told the group that both he and DK happened to be here at the office earlier today and had met Kaitlin when she arrived. JB added that they asked Kaitlin a few questions, and within minutes she stated reasons why she didn’t feel Fonality was the correct way to go and didn’t see any reason to change the existing system.  JB asked her to attend the Selectmen’s meeting to explain to the full Board, but Kaitlin was unable to attend the meeting. Instead, she sent her concerns via e-mail to the Board (which was received that day for tonight’s meeting).

Grow stated that the RSA’s had been violated by two Selectmen being present and talking about the phone system. JB, DK and Karen Montgomery all stated that the RSA’s were not violated and Grow argued, saying that two Selectmen violated the Statute. JB told Grow that he appreciated the work he had done and he understood that it was personal to Grow, to see this thing through, where Grow had a business doing this type of stuff. JB asked Grow who he had worked for in the past and Grow stated that he had been with MCI, AT&T, Verizon and another company.

RL wanted to know why there was so much anger and when JB asked him, “What anger”?, RL stated that JB, DK and Karen are against the police. RL went on to say that he didn’t understand why it took so long to get the phone thing through, that it was passed in the budget. DK pointed out that a new phone system was not in the budget. Chief Borgia stated that he had presented it at budget season and DK told him that the Board had not accepted it and what passed in the budget was the same phone system they currently have. RL told the group that everything he has seen since he came here is a “no” if the police want something. AH, taking offense to RL’s comment, stated that not everything is an automatic “no” to the police, that the Board has approved a lot of their requests. AH said that he was considering both sides to the phone request (which is part of his job) and that Karen was right about the RSA’s - that where we have a Board of five, it would take three to constitute a quorum.

JB asked Grow to make his presentation and Grow told the group that the Fonality system is not a residential system, it’s a business and if the police decides it doesn’t work, there is no fee to get out of the agreement, no fees to replace phones if they break etc., no need to change any wiring, and no fee for installation. Grow stated that every internet is public, that it’s no more of a security issue than what they have now; adding that the security part is written in code, so someone would have to break the code. He told the group that he could plug a device in any one of the phones and hear the conversations. Grow next stated that as far as the copper lines go, they’ve had problems with them since he’s been here. He again stated that with Fonality, if the phones break, they send them back at no charge and get free phones. Grow told the group that they currently pay Clayton Randall to come in when their current system goes down. He said that with Fonality, all emergency calls go to backup and if the new system fails, it goes directly to Belknap County. He added that it’s not proprietary, that you can use them (phones) on anything or sell them; that there would not need to be any new lines or cables. AH asked about the PBX system and Grow told him that each phone is basically a computer, that talks to each other. He stated that even if all three lines were being used, there is no such thing as busy. JB raised the concern if there was only one person to answer the line, or in the case of the office being closed and no one to answer. Grow said to JB, “If no matter what I say won’t change your mind, I can end this discussion now”. RL said, “Why fight it – it will save money”? Grow next stated that they (the police) have a defunct system now and JB asked why they hadn’t called Clayton to fix it and Grow said they had but he hasn’t got back to them. Grow added that Clayton installed the system, has a laptop to access the system and he (Clayton) is the only one who can work on it. Karen said that that was odd, where Clayton had installed the Town Hall’s PBX system and gave Karen the manual (with Supervisory rights) so she can fix, troubleshoot or program any number of things so that Clayton doesn’t have to be called for everything.

DK asked about the MetroCast bid, as they were the lowest in cost and Grow explained that MetroCast doesn’t offer all the same stuff that Fonality does without it costing more. DK pointed out that the MetroCast contract is coming up for renewal and suggested that where the change in phone systems was not in the budget, he would rather wait to see what MetroCast might be able to offer. Grow said that with Fonality, the officers will each have a separate voice mail, unlike what they currently have. JB asked if the police department had a general box so anyone could leave a message and Grow said they did. JB stated that he left two messages and calls were never returned. Borgia stated that the duty officer listens to the messages and so did the assistant.  Grow went on to say that the present system drops calls and they are not getting calls. JB asked about the internet going down and the police department losing phone service and Grow said that it automatically goes to dispatch in the internet goes down.  DK questioned the phones that were listed on the Fonality quote, pointing out that the other phone systems had phones with 5 star rating, but Fonality did not. Grow explained that the five star rating is obtained by votes received through polls. JB told Grow that he was right about one thing, the State’s company (Vanticore) was too costly to do the whole town and again stated his issue was with the bank account.

KG stated that she felt Frank Grow was a professional on this subject, trusted what he said and felt they should go with the request. JB agreed that Grow had the background knowledge but still had concerns about the internet and the back account. KG, admitting that she was not well-versed in the technology field, stated that she personally would not want withdrawals done from her account (or the Town’s). Grow told her that a separate account is opened for the phone company (Fonality) and the town puts the money in the account. AH pointed out that Fonality didn’t offer any “9-1-1” service but the next company down on the list had it. Grow commented that no internet provider can guarantee that service availability. AH stated that his problem was that the town couldn’t pay by check and Grow stated that the company (Fonality) is backed by Intel and Dell. Questioning charges for bank accounts, Grow stated that he had spoken with TDBank North and they said there were no charges for the Town to open and have an account. AH commented that it was the security of that type of account that he was worried about, not whether Fonality was a good company.

At 8:00 p.m. AH made a motion to allow the police department to give the phone system a try. RL seconded the motion and it passed with the following vote; Jim Barnard, no; Andy Houle, yes; Katherine Grillo, yes; David Kerr, no; and Bob LaRoche, yes.  DK stated that he was against it because it was not in the budget. Chief Borgia asked how soon they could change and JB instructed him that the Treasurer would have to set up the account. DK commented that federally, it’s illegal to prepay.

At 8:03 p.m. JB informed Chief Borgia that they would be scheduling a meeting with Valley Dam officials to discuss the contract and requested that Borgia or an officer be present for the meeting. KG asked what the State’s involvement was and JB explained that the State owns the facility and the State and Town have a contract. A brief discussion ensued regarding whether the road was private or not. Chief Borgia stated that his issues are whatever the property owner’s issues are. Borgia added that if our local ordinances had specific fines, then the money would stay in town and not have to go to the State.

At 8:15 p.m. under New Business; the Board reviewed the appointments for forest fire warden, deputy warden and the list of personnel authorized to hand out burn permits. It was determined that the new Fire Rescue Chief should review these. The Welch Road Bridge project is complete and the final close out papers were sent out. After a review of a timber warrant extension request, AH made a motion to allow a 30 day extension of the warrant in order to allow the property owner to straighten out the report of cut and subsequent taxes owed. RL seconded the motion and it passed with a unanimous vote.

The Selectmen accepted the resignation of Paul King, long time member and call employee of the Fire Department. A letter will be sent to Mr. King. The Board determined that it did not want to pursue paying monies to an insurance representative to have him review our current health/dental plans as proposed by the Suncook Valley Regional group. Copies of the applications from the fire rescue job ad will be distributed to the new Fire Chief and the Board will determine how the Chief wishes to proceed.

Karen Montgomery informed the Board that the monies set aside for the Welch Road Bridge had accrued some interest throughout the 2 year project and asked if the interest could be returned to the Bridge Capital Reserve as opposed to going to the general fund. AH made a motion to allow the interest earned from the Welch Road Bridge account to go back to the Bridge Capital Reserve and RL seconded the motion, which passed with a unanimous vote.

Karen next asked if the Board wished to have the minutes recorded and if so, a policy should be created regarding this. RL said that he would like to see the meetings recorded. KG thought it might be helpful. JB and DK didn’t feel it was necessary, as the minutes of the Selectmen’s meetings have never been recorded. Karen informed the Board that the RSA’s only require brief descriptions of subject matter (names and motions recorded) so if they wanted a verbatim set of minutes they would need to consider a transcriptionist, as it would be such a time consuming task. Karen also mentioned that the Board would then have to listen to the tapes and also decide how long they would want to retain them.

KG asked about impact fees and was given a brief explanation. DK suggested arranging for the new Fire Chief to meet with the Board next Tuesday to swear him into office and to discuss goals.

On a motion by AH, seconded by RL the Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (c) at 8:34 p.m. with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; Kathy Grillo, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 8:44 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by DK, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

The Selectmen agreed that JB would contact John Dionne regarding the Relay Race and instruct him that Maple Street was not an approved area for the race. JB will suggest the intersection of Routes 126 & 28 or the area across from the Country Store.

DK informed the Board that next year’s revenues will be less than last year’s and felt they should ask the department heads to start looking at budget cuts. AH felt that if the department heads go through their budgets and can make cuts, they could use that money for raises and JB agreed with him. KG mentioned that the schools revenues were down $400,000 and that for three years in a row the school did not meet the State’s criteria. KG asked why the town and school boards don’t get together to discuss budgets and AH told her the Board had tried that in the past. JB announced that the Suncook Valley group was still looking at regionalization regarding the police department and RL added that regionalization was good but it takes a long time to get into place. DK suggested that the Board review the fulltime vacancies in the Highway and Fire Rescue departments and consider part-time hiring’s.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:59 p.m.                                                   

Respectfully submitted,                                  

Karen Montgomery

Selectmen’s Secretary

                                   
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SELECTMEN'S OFFICE

Town of Barnstead

P.O. Box 11

Center Barnstead, NH  03225

Minutes

June 1st, 2010

Present: Chairman James Barnard (JB), Vice Chairman Andy Houle (AH), Katherine Grillo (KG), and Robert LaRoche (RL). David Kerr was unable to attend.

Chairman Barnard opened the meeting at 6:30 p.m. Following the Pledge of Allegiance, the Board signed the payroll, manifest, the minutes of 5/25/10, a tax collectors warrant, and 1 intent to cut wood.

The Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (c) at 6:31 p.m. on a motion by AH, seconded by RL with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; Katherine Grillo, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 6:34 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by KG, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

The Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (a) at 6:35 p.m. on a motion by AH, seconded by KG with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; Katherine Grillo, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 6:54 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by KG, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

AH made a motion for the Chairman to sign a non-detrimental verbal spot performance appraisal on behalf of the Board. RL seconded the motion and it passed with a unanimous vote.

The meeting was opened to public input at 6:56 p.m. and Rick and Teri Cherne of Cooke Road explained that they were coming before the Selectmen regarding the OSG Paintball operation.  The Cherne’s, who have lived across the street from OSG for almost a year, said that they cannot deal with the constant screaming, shooting and traffic that takes place several days a week. Mr. Cherne told the Selectmen that they were attracted to the serenity and easy pace of life in Barnstead and everything had been good except for the paintball issues. Mr. Cherne gave the Board a letter stating their concerns and pointing out several violations with the OSG that had not been permitted in the original site plan. JB asked if the Cherne’s had gone to the Planning Board or Zoning Board and Mr. Cherne stated that they were scheduled for the Planning Board on Thursday.  Mr. Cherne told the Board that he had contacted the Dept. of Revenue and the current use portion of the property, which fell under the Selectmen’s authority to enforce, was in violation as well. The Cherne’s felt that the expansion of the OSG had been done behind the Town’s back and AH explained that OSG had not gone behind anyone’s back, that they had been there a long time and had gone before the Planning Board and gotten approval for the business. Mr. Cherne commented that OSG has crafted and built a 34 acre amusement attraction, adding that if you don’t live next door then you wouldn’t understand the constant disruption. RL asked if the violations were taken care of, would it be possible for them to work out the differences between themselves and the OSG owners and Mrs. Cherne said they could not. JB asked if a wall or barrier would help and again Mrs. Cherne stated that it would not. JB told the group that he didn’t recall the Whinn’s (previous owners) having a problem with OSG and the Cherne’s stated that they had something in writing from the Whinn’s.

Mr. Cherne told the Board that he also went to the police station with a letter, but Chief Borgia was not there today so Officer Grow accepted the letter. Cherne stated that in speaking with Officer Grow, Grow told him that he (Grow) had attended an OSG function as a patron and had been served hotdogs. Cherne added that Grow’s statements just gave him (Cherne) more information regarding the violation of selling food at the property. JB mentioned that the Army and National Guard uses the site for training of troops going to Afghanistan and Mrs. Cherne told the Board that the Guard makes as much noise as the tournament events do.  Mr. Cherne stated that his wife had had two bouts with cancer and he didn’t care if the Army etc. did use the facility, if it was operating against the law, he wanted it stopped. Mr. Cherne felt the owners should take the piece of the OSG business and move it to a commercial piece of property. Bill Evans, Planning Board Member, informed the group that the area is zoned agricultural residential but at the time it came under use by exception and they allowed businesses in any district. AH asked the couple if they realized the OSG business was there when they purchased the property and the Cherne’s stated that they were told by the realtor and Whinn’s that a paintball site was “around the corner” and it had events on the weekends.

KG asked Bill Evans if there was an approved site plan for the OSG and Bill stated that there was but it was limited. AH informed the Cherne’s that he would be there Thursday evening as he is the Selectmen’s Representative to the Planning Board. Mr. Cherne stated that he had spoken to the police and it sounded like they would like to come out to monitor the noise during an event. Cherne went on to say that he hoped the Selectmen would support this request and JB told him them that the police would handle the complaint and/or investigation accordingly. KG asked what time the OSG opened up and Mrs. Cherne said that it was supposed to be at 9:00 a.m. but it was opening at 7:00 a.m. with cars arriving at 7:30 a.m. She added that it runs until 5-6 p.m. at night and suggested that the Board look at the OSG’s website. JB told the Cherne’s that they would schedule David Preston to come before the Board regarding the current use issue and the other violations came under the Planning Board.

At 7:20 p.m. AH asked the Board to consider changing the lease with the bus company from a three year term to a one year term, explaining that the Barnstead Development Group (AH is a member) is hoping to bring businesses to that location and they wouldn’t want to be tied to the use of the property for three years. RL commented that the contract should have a 60 day term to break a lease and Karen Montgomery explained that the current contract does have that. It was determined that legal counsel would be contacted.

At 7:25 p.m. the Board reviewed a request from Janet Leavitt to use the Parade Fire Station for a cancer benefit. The Board approved the request but Chief Krause will be contacted regarding the availability of the facility. The Board also agreed that there should be one calendar available for scheduling events.

JB announced that the submission date for the Fire Rescue position had closed and there were approximately 12-14 applications.  It was determined that the group would review them next week. The Selectmen will discuss goals for the new fire chief next week as well as the suggested changes to the credit card policy made by DK.

The Board discussed legal issues and reviewed miscellaneous correspondence.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:40 p.m.                                                   

Respectfully submitted by Karen Montgomery,
Selectmen’s Secretary

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SELECTMEN'S OFFICE
Town of Barnstead
P.O. Box 11
Center Barnstead, NH  03225

Minutes
May 25th, 2010

Present: Chairman James Barnard (JB), Vice Chairman Andy Houle (AH), Katherine Grillo (KG), David Kerr (DK), and Robert LaRoche (RL).

Chairman Barnard opened the meeting at 6:30 p.m. Following the Pledge of Allegiance, the Board signed the payroll, manifest, the minutes of 5/18/10, 1 intent to excavate application, a peddler’s license, a letter to David Scott and a letter to Chief Borgia.

The Board will review a proposed credit card policy. DK pointed out that the promotions for two fire rescue personnel (to Lieutenant) last week would cause a discrepancy in the wage scale if they were placed at the Grade that Krause suggested. DK further explained that this was the reason why the Board hadn’t gone forward with the promotions in the past and that the Board had asked Krause to bring a proposed call wage scale. KG stated that she did recall this and JB added that he had suggested they wait for the new chief to decide on the promotions. DK pointed out that prior Lieutenants were placed on the scale at Grade 8 and that the pay increase and promotions (for the two call employees) could still be met under the Grade 8 level. The Board determined that they would be placed at the Grade 8 level until the call wage scale can be revised.

JB informed the Board that the new cruiser was here in Barnstead but there had not been any invoice presented, nor had the paperwork been forwarded for registration or insurance. It was noted that the police department had been notified of this earlier that day. The Board next discussed the line item in the budget for the American Legion ($3500) which had historically been given to them. The American Legion purchases new flags for the Town each year. KG felt that in fairness to the Town, the Legion should either bring in an invoice or tell the Selectmen what the money goes to. RL suggested that the Legion come before the Selectmen next budget season to explain the request. AH made a motion to give the money to the American Legion as designated in the budget with the condition that they purchase new flags. KG seconded the motion and it passed with the following vote; Jim Barnard, abstained; Andy Houle, yes; Katherine Grillo, yes; David Kerr, abstained; and Bob LaRoche, yes. JB and DK abstained as they are members of the American Legion.

The meeting was opened to public input at 6:45 p.m. and Health Officer Bill Evans inquired into the Pettengill issue and it was determined that the Attorney would be contacted. JB informed the Board that Parks & Rec had turned in their old Sam’s Club card (which was in Anthony Bugeida’s name) and asked that a new one be issued in Bob LaRoche’s name. The group discussed a possible conflict where Bob is a Selectman and also a member of the Parks & Rec Committee. AH stated that he didn’t think there would be a conflict of interest if the card was in Bob’s name and thus made a motion to allow Robert LaRoche’s name to be put on the new card along with the inscriptions of the Town of Barnstead and Parks & Rec Dept. KG seconded the motion and it passed with the following vote; Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; Katherine Grillo, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, abstained.

The Board met with Dave & Eileen Murley at 6:52 p.m. on behalf of the Fire Dept. and Fire Company (BFRI) to coordinate a retirement event for Chief Krause. It was determined that Dave & Eileen would broach the subject with Chief Krause as a surprise event would be extremely difficult given Krause’s travel schedule. The group determined that they would follow the Award Program specifications and have an open house at the Town Hall with the date to be determined.

At 7:08 p.m. JB inquired into Chief Borgia’s presence, and Borgia stated that he had seen the topic of the police department’s phone system on the agenda. JB mentioned the invoice for the police detail at the mini horse farm and Chief Borgia commented that discussions with both the owner of the farm and Mr. Cantrell went back and forth regarding the detail but there was nothing definite. JB stated that the invoice was sent back to the police department to be billed out like any other detail. JB next asked about the new cruiser and Borgia stated that it was in the shop but all the paperwork had been delivered to the Selectmen’s Office that evening. Chief Borgia handed JB some paperwork on the Enforcement of Underage Drinking Grant announcing that this was a new grant for June 2010 through May of next year. JB asked when the current grant ended and Borgia stated that it was this coming weekend.

The group next discussed the police department’s proposed phone system (voice over IP) and AH commented that he thought the Board had put the new system in the police budget and both DK and JB stated that it was not (referring to the police dept.’s proposed budget for 2010). Chief Borgia stated that the line item for the police department’s phones would be over-expended if they stayed with the current system(s). JB commented that the line item was $7000 and Borgia told him that the request had been for $8,000 and the Board had reduced it. DK mentioned that the line had been reduced the year before as well (to $7,000) and the department had spent $6745 in 2009. DK then read aloud the phones listed under the police dept. in the budget that had been presented. Referring to the new proposed system, JB stated that he was not in favor of giving out the town’s bank account information to a company that no one had heard about (Fonality). Officer Grow explained that the company requires a bank account to be opened with only enough money put in it to cover the monthly billing.

Officer Grow told the group that he had also contacted the company that supplied phone service to the State of NH and that it would only be cost saving to the Town if they had

20 people or more on the system. JB stated that he would like to see a proposal from the company that the State uses. JB asked if the Fonality company was a leasing company and Grow stated that they wouldn’t lease, they would purchase the phone. JB mentioned that the proposal did not reflect the cost of the line the police department would be keeping and Grow agreed, saying that the fee did not include the cost of the fax line the police would keep. JB again commented that Fonality was a leasing company and Grow explained that the system was similar to a PBX bandless system, which would allow calls over the current internet provider (MetroCast). AH asked if any other company or place in the State was currently using Fonality and Grow stated that he did not know.

JB next mentioned that the proposed system is a basic line and asked if it included voicemail, intercom and conference calling. Grow stated that it did and JB pointed out that if the internet went down, the phones go down. Grow told him that right now, it the power goes out there are no phones at the police department. DK asked why the police didn’t have a $9 dollar phone that plugs into the wall jack to provide phone service during power outages, like the Town Hall does. RL inquired about the cost for the whole town to have this service and Grow said that he could get a price from the company the State uses (Cisco). Grow went on to say that the proposed system (Fonality) decreases their phone costs this year and that there wasn’t any contract with this company either; suggesting that they go forward with Fonality now and look into the State’s system for next year.

DK commented that the comparison sheet (in the police department’s proposal) actually showed MetroCast to be the cheapest of the four systems presented. Grow told the group that MetroCast (our current internet provider) did not offer all the services the department needed. DK told the group that the MetroCast handout sheet (in the police proposal) lists all the features and had everything the other companies offered. Grow told him that there was an issue with call transfers after hours  and that MetroCast only allowed for one mailbox per line. Chief Borgia added that MetroCast charges more fees for special stuff.

AH asked if the Cisco company (that the State uses) could do a quick study to see what the total costs would be and Grow said that they could and that he was all for it. JB commented that he would like to see one system for all the town departments, adding that the departments currently use different cell phone companies and he would like to see one company being used. Borgia commented that the center of town has a dead zone that some phones won’t work in and JB told him that a tower would be coming to Barnstead in the near future that would allow for this. KG told the group that she felt Officer Grow had done a good job gathering all this information and creating the power point handouts. She added that Grow had the answers to all the questions that were asked and said, “Let’s trust that he knows what he’s talking about”. JB, taking offense to the comment, stated that he never said he didn’t trust anyone, that he was looking at the whole picture and wanted to make his choice based on what was best for the town. The group determined that they would wait to see what the proposal from the other company (Cisco) would be and AH suggested that the proposal be back to the Selectmen by June 8th. A representative of the Cisco company will meet with Grow and Karen Montgomery. Karen, who had also spoken with the Cisco company, informed the group that with the Fonality company, you purchase the phones, but lease the services (with a per line monthly cost) and the company was based in Texas, whereas the Cisco company was in Bedford, NH.

At 7:35 p.m. Officer Grow informed the Board that the gazebo in Barnstead Parade was being destroyed and asked if “No Trespassing” signs could be put up. Treasurer Terry joined the group and on behalf of the Barnstead Parade Congregational Church explained that the gazebo is on the Church’s property. AH asked if she could have the church put up the signs and she told him that the gazebo belongs to the Town. She went on to say that the Parade grounds (which are Church property) are being wrecked and nothing is ever done even though there have been several calls to the police. Grow commented that when the police go there, the kids (who play in the Bandstand) run off, stating that they could enforce it if the No Trespassing signs were posted. Treasurer Terry reminded the group that the Town uses the grounds for summer concerts and other events where the No Trespassing would not apply. She asked if other Church grounds were being destroyed, stating that she didn’t believe they were and then suggested that the Church could close the area to everyone.

Chief Borgia told the Board that gatherings of underage kids had begun at Valley Dam again and that the police make at least three passes a day to the area. Borgia stated that signs were posted but they needed to have “per order of the Board of Selectmen” printed on them in order for the police to enforce the rules. The signs, which were supposed to have the wording inscribed last year, will be corrected. Borgia also mentioned that the other problem area was at the Parade Dam and DK (who passes through there several times a day) stated that he never seen anything wrong there, and that it’s always been a recreation site. Chief Borgia mentioned that cars are speeding through there while kids are in the street and jumping off the bridge. He added that he wasn’t looking to halt the swimming but had concerns with safety.

The Selectmen met with Geof Fossett, Building Inspector at 7:45 p.m. JB, referring to a letter from the Planning Board that was sent to the OSG Paintball owners, asked Geof how the structures on the paintball field (most of which have 3 sides, no base or foundation etc.) could be construed to be buildings. Geof told the group that he didn’t know if he should speak to this issue because the Planning Board had approached him. Geof stated that the Planning Board had received a formal complaint regarding the use of the paintball field which questioned the scope and the original site plan approval. He added that there were concerns for the public safety regarding the structures. JB commented that this was not a Building Inspector issue and Bill Evans, Planning Board member, commented that it was a code enforcement issue and Geof is the Code Enforcer.

Geof told the group that he would propose a site visit inspection as he hasn’t been out there.

AH asked if the Paintball place had been before the ZBA and Bill Evans stated that they had in the beginning but the original site plan didn’t include some of the new structures. Bill went on to say that the owner came back about 7 years ago with the plans for the castles etc. but that it was never approved. AH commented that anything up to 250 square feet did not need a permit and Bill Evans told him that the paintball was a business and for businesses you can require it. JB questioned if this was something new and Geof told him it was a new complaint. JB stated that the National Guard uses the facility for training etc. Bill Evans told the group that the complaints were that the original agreement was just for weekends but now the paintball place is open 7 days a week and had expanded. AH commented that this was just a change of venue but Bill Evans disagreed. Geof mentioned that it was 200 square feet for accessory structures and AH took exception to that, stating that the people had voted in the 250 square feet, that it was our town ordinance and that he would stand behind it. He added that he would be strict on this, that the State could tell him he’s wrong and take him to court if necessary. AH then asked why nobody came before the Board and told the people about this change. DK explained that subsequent to the Town adopting the 250 square foot structure ordinance, they passed the International Building Codes (and IRC) which has 200 square feet. Bill Evans added that the 250 sq. feet was when the town was under CABO, but then the town passed the IRC that has 200. AH, still questioning if the people were made to understand what they’d lose by passing this and wondering if the Planning Board explained it to the people, was told by Bill Evans that the required public hearings were held, but as is typical, only 5-10 people show up. Bill added that the Planning Board also creates handouts of the ballot questions that are distributed with the newspaper as well.  AH felt that people should have been notified and that it should have been in the paper and Bill Evans told him it was in the paper. Geof next stated that the State adopted the 2009 Building Code and AH told him that people in Barnstead still think they can put up a 250 square foot building without a permit and are doing it. DK added that with the International Building Code there were so many specifications and codes that there is no way you could address each code. Geof told the Board that he was going forward, not backward and the burden of responsibility is on the people to know what’s passed.  The next topic of discussion was the scheduling of another public hearing to allow for the addition of three new permits (foundation, ramp and perimeter drains).

JB commented that the next issue might want to be discussed in non-public regarding a complaint against the Geof. AH felt that the complaint was presented to the Board in public session and didn’t see why it should be non-public. The group decided to proceed with the discussion in public. JB next explained that Joyce Parson had submitted a letter of complaint to the Selectmen regarding the Building Inspector and the Selectmen had asked for his response in writing. Geof explained that he had submitted a statement, but felt that where there was a lot more involved, a meeting would be better. JB mentioned that one of Joyce’s concerns was the sarcastic answer Geof had given her and Geof told the Board that Joyce had asked sarcastic questions. JB suggested that Geof could’ve addressed her in different words. JB next voiced concern that Geof had contacted Joyce’s employer, stating that Joyce had come to the public hearing as a resident, not on behalf of the Department of Environmental Services (DES) and that Geof had no right contacting her employer. Geof stated that he felt he had the right to ask DES if Joyce was representing them, as she pontificated how much experience she had inspecting septic systems (during a visit to Locke Lake with Bill Evans). Bill Evans attempted to interject and JB interrupted, asking that they address the issue at hand. RL stated that they ought to let him speak.

Geof commented that Joyce stated (at the public hearing) that she worked for DES and would get answers. JB read aloud a portion of Joyce’s letter where she stated that she was there as a member of the public and never said she was with DES. JB told Geof he felt that Geof was out of line filing a complaint with her employer and a lengthy discussion ensued as to whether of Joyce had stated she worked for DES at the public hearing. The minutes from the public hearing were reviewed (showing she had not stated she was there from DES) but Geof, and RL were adamant that she had. RL commented that it made for a good argument regarding the taping of the meetings. AH told the group that he works for the Town just as Geof does, and he remember her saying she was there as a citizen of Barnstead. AH added that no one should have to worry about having their employer contacted because of something they say at a meeting. Geof said that he didn’t think she had any fear of losing her job and that she stood up and said she worked for DES. JB commented that she did not make that statement according to the minutes. Geof stated that he didn’t know until he called (DES) that she was a clerk in the water testing department.

JB stated that he agreed with AH, that anyone who comes before the public to speak should not have to be worried about having their employer contacted. JB told Geof that he wanted a written response from him regarding the incident and Geof said “okay”.  DK told the group that he did not catch her saying she worked for DES at the public hearing. JB mentioned that he didn’t know if this was ill will and Geof quickly responded that it was not. KG said that she thought what JB said made sense, that Geof knew Joyce worked for DES before the meeting. Geof said that when he spoke with Rob Tardiff (DES), Rob told him that Joyce was not part of subsurface. AH again stated that he didn’t think Joyce ever said she was from DES and asked why she would have. KG told the Board that she had not finished what she was saying and stated that she now felt the Selectmen should have gone into non-public session. KG said that Geof apparently felt that someone was attacking him and it was more of an issue of the Board handling it differently. She added that she was uncomfortable at the public hearing and that she felt there was something more going on than just what they were discussing (bedbottom inspections). KG said she thought Joyce may have said something about DES but she wasn’t sure.

The Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (c) at 8:42 p.m. on a motion by AH, seconded by KG with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; Katherine Grillo, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 9:10 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by KG, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

JB stated that if the Road Agent determines that the Foreman title should be removed, it was okay with the Board. Chris Carazzo informed the Selectmen that he had incident reports for them for next week.

KG mentioned that while at the Selectmen’s Institute the group discussed the Town’s liability in the winter regarding emergency access and the reporting of things like potholes. The Board discussed the chain of command when reporting road conditions and Carazzo stated that he contacts the Principal who makes the final decision. RL mentioned three accidents that have taken place on the corner of Walker and North Barnstead. Chris Carazzo asked if the Board approved of the Highway Crew attending the annual Mt. of Demo’s as has been done in the past and they did. Chris informed the Selectmen that the swing piston on the backhoe cannot be fixed and it was approximately $1300. Chris added that the one on the other side went 4 years ago. JB thanked him for bringing it to the Board and AH told him to go ahead.

The Board agreed that the two-three buildings to have energy studies done on would be the Highway Garage, Town Hall and Station 2 (in that order). JB told the group that he and DK had looked at the bandstand and the cracks in the floor are surface cracks. JB stated that Clint Lank looked at it and he will seal the cracks. He added that they had also looked at Station 2 and the roof should be repaired not replaced. The group next discussed egress issues with the buildings.

The Board discussed legal issues and reviewed miscellaneous correspondence.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:45 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Karen Montgomery

Selectmen’s Secretary

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SELECTMEN'S OFFICE
Town of Barnstead
P.O. Box 11
Center Barnstead, NH  03225

Minutes
May 18th, 2010

Present: Chairman James Barnard (JB), Vice Chairman Andy Houle (AH), Katherine Grillo (KG), David Kerr (DK), and Robert LaRoche (RL).

Chairman Barnard opened the meeting at 6:30 p.m. Following the Pledge of Allegiance, the Board signed the payroll, manifest, the minutes of 5/11/10, 2 abatement forms, and the Alcohol and Drug Policy.

The meeting was opened to public input at 6:40 p.m. and Road Agent, Chris Carazzo informed the Board that he had been approached by the Barnstead Youth Baseball Association regarding a drainage issue on the upper parking lot area at the Route 126 baseball fields. Chris stated that he had the landowner’s permission to correct the drainage and requested the use of the town grader on Saturday. Chris added that he was volunteering his time and had several other volunteers to help with the project. The consensus of the Board was in favor of the request and Chris stated that it would take only 3-4 hours to complete.

Chris Carazzo next asked if he could fill the vacant fulltime position at the entry level and an appointment was made for the next week to discuss the matter. DK asked if reflectors had been put on utility poles and Chris said that they had.

The Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (c) at 6:41 p.m. on a motion by AH, seconded by KG with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; Katherine Grillo, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 6:58 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by KG, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

The Selectmen met with Cate Kowalski, Website Coordinator at 7:02 p.m. to update the Board’s pictures on the web. Cate gave a brief explanation on the website and the Board approved the removal of unused pages (that will be kept on file).

On a motion by AH, seconded by KG the Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (b) at 7:20 p.m. with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; Katherine Grillo, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 7:29 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by RL, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

The Selectmen reviewed the Wellness Grant application packet from the Local Government Center (LGC) and KG felt that the survey should be sent out to determine if there was any interest among the employees.

Under Old Business; the group discussed the invoice from the police department for the special duty detail at the Mini Horse Farm. The invoice had been sent to the Selectmen’s Office with a note attached stating that the police dept. did not know how it was to be handled. JB stated that the invoice gets sent to the customer just as the police does for all other details they do. A brief discussion ensued with JB explaining the event and the billing procedure to RL and KG. It was determined that the invoice would be sent back to the police chief for normal billing.

The Board next discussed the use of a Mobile credit card for the purchase of gas for the town vehicles. DK explained the advantages of the card and the savings for the town (currently the State gas pumps are in Alton). JB commented that they would need to follow through with collecting the reimbursement on the gas tax and they needed to create a credit card policy. AH made a motion to apply for the Mobile Credit Card for gas for town vehicles and RL seconded it and it passed with a unanimous vote.  DK mentioned that the police use the car wash too. The Board will review sample credit card policies.

The Selectmen reviewed the proposed excavation policy and AH made a motion to accept. KG seconded the motion and it passed with the following vote; Jim Barnard, abstained; Andy Houle, yes; Katherine Grillo, yes; David Kerr, no; and Bob LaRoche, yes. DK stated that he was opposed because of the attorney’s comments regarding elected officials receiving the material. The next item was the Dept. of Revenue’s (DRA) response to the police cruiser warrant article. DRA reiterated that the warrant article was to replace an existing police vehicle but stated that the decision about the old police vehicle must be made at the local level as to whether voters authorized the purchase based on the understanding it was replacing a vehicle or if they would accept the concept of the Town retaining both vehicles. JB stated that unless a reconsideration of the vote was requested, the old police vehicle would remain with the police department (as was voted by AH, KG and RL).

The Board next met with Chief Krause who presented the Selectmen with a key to the fire stations. Krause asked the Board how to proceed with the roof repairs to Station 2 (Center Station) and JB stated that they would be having people give proposals. Chief Krause asked if a request for proposals would be going in the paper and JB mentioned that he would like to see the project done by local people. Krause commented that it was the recommendation of a knowledgeable metal roofer to replace the roof based on the age (roof was done in 1971) and condition. After a brief discussion regarding a badge for the new Fire Chief, it was determined that Krause would order two standard Barnstead badges.

At 8:00 p.m. Chief Krause presented the Board with his letter of retirement from the Fire Chief position. AH asked if Krause was staying on thru the transition and Krause said that he had offered his services to the new Chief but the new Chief had not gotten back to him yet. Krause pointed out that per his letter the retirement pertained only to the Fire Chief position. On behalf of the Board, JB thanked Krause for his 41 years of continued professionalism and dedication to the Town and the Department. JB added that it was with regret that they had to accept his letter of retirement.

On a motion by AH, seconded by KG the Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (a) at 8:05 p.m. with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; Katherine Grillo, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 8:50 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by RL, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

AH made a motion to promote John Drew and Mike Vardaro to the position of Fire Lieutenant effective April 1, 2010 and RL seconded the motion. The motion passed with the following vote; Jim Barnard, abstained; Andy Houle, yes; Katherine Grillo, yes; David Kerr, no; and Bob LaRoche, yes. JB and DK commented that they felt the new Fire Chief should make these decisions and Krause told them that he appreciated their concern. Chief Krause stated that John Drew’s wage placement was Grade 15 Step 4 and Mike Vardaro’s was Grade 15 Step 0.

On a motion by AH, seconded by KG, the Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (c) at 8:58 p.m. with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; Katherine Grillo, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 8:50 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by RL, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

AH made a motion to follow the guidelines of the Ordway lease to begin eviction. RL seconded the motion and it passed with a unanimous vote.

At 9:20 p.m. the Board determined that the Parks & Rec area would not be a suitable rest area place for the participants of the Reach the Beach relay race. After a brief discussion, it was suggested that the race coordinator look into the Route 126 & 28 intersection area.

Karen Montgomery passed out an updated 2010 budget spreadsheet showing the breakdown of the Fica and Medicare lines. DK expressed concern for the 2011 budget with pressure on pay raises and revenues being down. JB mentioned that he would like to see department heads reduce their budgets and use that money for raises for the employees. The group next discussed Hazard Mitigation projects for 2011 and noted that the Road Agent had been sent a letter asking for figures on several projects. RL commented that they should not bandaid everything and then get hit later on with huge improvement costs. DK explained to him that the Capital Improvements Plan serves that purpose and when it’s kept up to date (and followed) it protects against huge costs. JB mentioned that the Town had major infrastructure issues, along with the roof repairs for the fire station and they wanted to have a town administrator position next year as well. He added that they would have to figure out how to do all this and balance everything. AH stated that he would bring the Capitol Improvements Plan up to the Planning Board.

The Board discussed legal issues and reviewed miscellaneous correspondence.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:40 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Karen Montgomery

Selectmen’s Secretary

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SELECTMEN'S OFFICE
Town of Barnstead
P.O. Box 11
Center Barnstead, NH  03225

Minutes
May 11th, 2010

Present: Chairman James Barnard (JB), Vice Chairman Andy Houle (AH), Katherine Grillo (KG), David Kerr (DK), and Robert LaRoche (RL).

Chairman Barnard opened the meeting at 6:30 p.m. Following the Pledge of Allegiance, the Board signed the payroll, manifest, the minutes of 5/4/10, 2 abatement forms, a letter to Locke Lake Colony, and a lien discharge. AH made a motion to have the Chairman sign the McFarland Johnson contract amendment and an employee benefit change form. RL seconded the motion, which passed with a unanimous vote.

AH and DK will attend a Floodplain workshop sponsored by the Office of Energy Planning and FEMA. DK will also attend a Labor Law Training workshop with Treasurer, Marjorie Terry. The Board approved a request for the Suncook Lakes Association to use the Town Hall for a meeting. Karen Montgomery informed the Board that LGC covers the Town for a fishing derby event put on by Parks & Rec, but RL must obtain a certificate on insurance from Locke Lake Colony (naming the Town as an insured party) where the event is being held at a Locke Lake private pond.

At 6:40 p.m. JB read aloud the three paving quotes that were received last week from R & D Paving ($68.05per ton), Advanced Paving ($66.88 per ton) and Pike Industries ($67.35 per ton). AH made a motion to accept the proposal from Advanced Paving and RL seconded it. DK asked if RFP’s were sent out and Road Agent Chris Carazzo stated they were not, that he telephoned the companies. DK felt that one proposal was different than the other two and Carazzo told him that they were asked to bid a price per ton, but some of them bid on stuff they weren’t asked for. DK told the Road Agent that the Board would like to see the RFP’s before they are sent out. KG wondered if this was a contract or just a bid and Carazzo told her it was a bid proposal. The Chairman called for the vote and the motion passed with the following vote; Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; Katherine Grillo, yes; David Kerr, abstained; and Bob LaRoche, yes. AH made a motion to have the Chairman sign the proposal, KG seconded the motion and it passed with the following vote; Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; Katherine Grillo, yes; David Kerr, abstained; and Bob LaRoche, yes.

The meeting was opened to public input at 6:48 p.m. and Lew Joslyn (of Colbath Road) stated that he was still trying to get the water problem corrected and hadn’t been able to meet with the Road Agent when his son can be present. Road Agent Carazzo told the Board that the issue is that he has to walk the whole property because changing the natural water flow will disperse it to another property, which they can’t do. Lew said that it was that way when they bought the property, that it was not his issue, it was the Town’s issue. Carazzo added that the water flowed through that property before Lew bought it and Lew damned it up. Lew stated that they have standing water caused by the Town’s culvert and Carazzo told him that the culvert was there when Lew bought the property and the only change that was made was that they replaced the metal culvert with a plastic pipe, in the same area. Lew invited the Selectmen to view the property and RL stated that he would like to see it. Carazzo told the Board that he would take Jim Fougere, of the Conservation Commission out to the property with him as well.

Rick Simoneau, of Garland Road, commented that the mini horse event that took place on Saturday, May 9, 2010, should be viewed as a great event. He stated that all the local businesses were swamped and that everything the town wanted to happen (to boost business), happened. He added that planned or unplanned he hoped the town would support whoever caused this to happen. AH mentioned that the publicizing of the world’s smallest horse caused six officers to be called in, along with fire and rescue people and it cost the taxpayers’ money because it far exceeded what was only planned for 300 people.

The Board relocated to the Town Hall to hold the second session of the public hearing on Bed Bottom Inspections and returned to their regular meeting at 8:08 p.m.

The Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (c) at 8:10 p.m. on a motion by AH, seconded by KG with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; Katherine Grillo, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 8:15 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by DK, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

AH made a motion to allow Emmanuel Field until the end of September to make payments on his account. RL seconded the motion and it passed with a unanimous vote.

On a motion by AH, seconded by RL the Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (b) at 8:17 p.m. with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; Katherine Grillo, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 9:35 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by RL, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

DK moved that the Fire Chief contract be accepted with the changes as discussed and AH seconded the motion, which passed with a unanimous vote. JB asked Mark Tetreault if he was in favor of the changes in the contract and Mark stated that he was. JB next asked Mark Tetreault if he was interested in the position of fulltime Fire Chief for the Town of Barnstead and Mark again stated that he was. JB asked how much time was needed before he could start in the position and Mark told the Board that it would be 30 days and his start date would be June 14, 2010. KG added that a condition of the employment would be that the Board speaks with Mr. Tetreault’s current Fire Chief and Tetreault agreed. AH made a motion to hire Mark Tetreault as fulltime Fire Chief for the Town of Barnstead, with the condition that the Board speaks with Mark’s current Fire Chief before his start date. DK seconded the motion and it passed with a unanimous vote. The Board discussed a formal swearing in and Deputy Fire Chief Shawn Mulcahy will introduce Mark to the Fire Rescue Department. Letters will be sent out to the other candidates and Shawn will e-mail the Search Committee to inform them of the Board’s decision and to thank them again. After a brief review of the ad for a fulltime firefighter/Emt, it was determined that they would go forward with the advertising. JB asked Mr. Tetreault if he had any questions of the Board and Mr. Tetreault replied that he did not at that time.

The Board discussed legal issues and reviewed miscellaneous correspondence.

The Chairman asked that the excavation policy and review of DRA’s response regarding the police vehicle be placed on next week’s agenda.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:45 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Karen Montgomery

Selectmen’s Secretary

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SELECTMEN'S OFFICE
Town of Barnstead
P.O. Box 11
Center Barnstead, NH  03225

Minutes
May 4th, 2010

Present: Chairman James Barnard (JB), Vice Chairman Andy Houle (AH), David Kerr (DK), and Robert LaRoche (RL). Katherine Grillo was unable to attend.

Chairman Barnard opened the meeting at 6:30 p.m. Following the Pledge of Allegiance, the Board signed the payroll, manifest, the minutes of 4/27/10, a Chapter 165 lien, and 1 current use application. AH made a motion to have the Chairman sign the LGC Wage survey and RL seconded it, which passed with a unanimous vote.

The meeting was opened to public input at 6:33 p.m. and Budget Committee Chairman Paul Landry addressed the Board regarding the police cruiser. Paul stated that he was very disappointed to read in the paper that the majority of the Board voted to let the police department retain the police cruiser that was supposed to be replaced by the new vehicle. Paul gave a brief explanation on how the Budget Committee process works and stated that when the Police Chief came before the Budget Committee, they were told the vehicle was a danger, that Borgia didn’t want his officers using it and that there wasn’t any money in the budget for repairs. Paul read aloud the warrant article, commenting that the phrase “to replace” was very clear, as it means to get rid of something old and put something new in its place. Paul went on to say that he (and other Committee Members) felt that the action the Selectmen had taken was contrary to what the legislative body passed at Town Meeting. Paul further stated that last Thursday on Rte. 126 he saw the vehicle with an officer (in full uniform) in it, so it was being used. Paul urged the Board to reconsider their vote.

JB told Paul that members of this Board and the previous Board wants to be sure that the relationship and integrity that existed between the Selectmen and Budget Committee had not been damaged. Paul stated that he had spoken with DK at the Budget Committee meeting last week and that DK had concurred that the Board had received the same information from Chief Borgia about the cruiser as the Budget Committee did. JB stated that they would have to wait for the full Board to be present before they would discuss reconsideration of the vote. AH told the group that he voted yes (to keep the cruiser) because it was brought to his attention that a little over $4,000 had been spent on the vehicle. DK commented that he wished the rest of the Board had been given that information from the Chief. Paul Landry mentioned that the minutes reflected the police having put $3,500 in the vehicle and DK concurred, but added that that had been the total cost throughout the whole year.

RL felt that Paul was basically saying that we (the Board) is ripping off the public and Paul told RL that he did not in any way imply that the Board was ripping anyone off, that he (Paul) just wanted the Board to have all the information. RL stated that he has a different way of looking at it, and if it saves money, he feels they should do it. RL added that people have told him it was the right thing to do. Paul told the group that if the vehicle had been used for parts or had gone to another department, he wouldn’t have a problem with it and would not be here tonight.

Gordon Preston told the group that he was on the Board at the time and it was presented to the Board that the vehicle was a danger, so the Board wrote a warrant article to replace the vehicle, not add to the fleet. Preston added that the Budget Committee’s recommendation is advisory and RL asked what he meant. Preston explained that the Selectmen can do something different than what was voted but that it doesn’t sit well with the public. He said that he would support a reconsideration of the vote.

Gordon next presented the Board with an application for a Biomass Energy Focus Group which would look into the possibilities of a local biomass heat and/or power district. He believed that it would be a worthwhile endeavor for the Barnstead Business Development group, adding that they had already gathered the information for a “loop” area; comprised from Shackford Corner to Rte. 28 and to include the school. Gordon further added that Barnstead is one of the few areas that have a 5 megawatt system in place (Timco).

Gordon asked that someone attend the June 25 workshop. DK asked if it would mean forming a special tax district and Gordon said that he wasn’t sure of the mechanics of it. AH made a motion to let Gordon Preston fill out the application form and send it in. DK seconded the motion and it passed with a unanimous vote.

At 6:57 p.m. Road Agent Carazzo presented the Board with three paving quotes and Chairman Barnard read aloud the following; Pike Industries, $67.35 per ton; R&D Paving $68.05 per ton and Advanced Paving, $66.88. Carazzo explained that the companies were asked to bid a price per ton. JB asked how thick the overlay was and Carazzo told him it would be 1” shim and 1” overlay and approximately 1050 feet worth. Carazzo told the Board the areas for paving were the North Barnstead Road apron, from Rte. 28 to Crescent, and the North Road apron to St. Laurent’s. JB asked how Carazzo had determined those areas and Carazzo explained that it was hard trying to plow a hill with no turn around on the bottom. DK told the group that he wasn’t aware the Board would be having a $60,000-70,000 item to discuss that evening. Carazzo said that he planned for the paving around the 1st week of June and the Board decided that they would make their determination next week.

AH read aloud a letter from Joe & Judy Bushinski, thanking the police for catching a burglar in their driveway before he burglarized their home. Upon an inquiry from DK, AH explained that the burglar had broken into other houses.

Gordon Preston informed the Board that the SAU had locked in a fuel price with Fuller Fuel. Karen Montgomery stated that she hadn’t heard from the SAU yet, but would contact them the next day.

Brian White, Budget Committee Member, told the Board that in the past when the Town votes one way and the Selectmen do the opposite, it ends up with a “kneejerk” reaction from the voters. He mentioned the leased police cruiser and leased highway trucks that were sent back, per the next town meeting.

At 7:10 p.m. the Board moved on to their next appointment with Chief Borgia. JB asked the Chief if he was prepared to have an answer to Brian White’s inquiry regarding a Barnstead police cruiser being parked on the side of the road (on Rte. 28) at the construction area in Pittsfield. Chief Borgia explained that the Officer had gotten a coffee when a call came in and he had pulled over to the side of the road to write down the information. Brian asked if the cruiser (that was pulled over in the dark in the breakdown lane) should have had lights on and the Chief told him it was not required. The Chief went on to say it probably wasn’t prudent but he (Borgia) could not speculate as to what the officer was doing.

JB asked Chief Borgia about showing the department’s court time on the time cards, reminding Borgia that they had discussed it in the past and Borgia had said there was no problem doing it. Borgia told JB he did not say that, he had said he’d look into it. RL asked what the big problem was and JB explained that last year the Selectmen (and Chief) had a big discussion surrounding the need for a prosecutor. JB added that the Board wanted to see how much time is spent in court to justify the need to hire a prosecutor. JB told Borgia if he wanted to supply the information separately, he could do that as well, but wanted to see it marked on the time cards.

The next topic was the Enforcement of Underage Drinking Law grant (EUDL). Chief Borgia stated that the current grant runs out the end of May. JB asked about the new grant and Borgia told him it had not been approved yet, but was projected for July 1. JB commented that he thought he had read in the grant requirements that the patrols had to be started within so many days of receiving the grant. Chief Borgia stated that he didn’t think that was a requirement. Karen Montgomery asked about the Town’s portion of revenue from the EUDL grant, stating that $35.00 per hour is paid to the officers and $10.00 per hour to the town (which is supposed to cover all the costs for retirement, medicare, vehicles etc.). Borgia told the group that if you look at the residuals, the $10.00 that the Town gets covers it all. JB stated that on other police details, the Town gets $10.00 per hour just for the cruiser and then 18% for the retirement and medicare costs. Chief Borgia was asked to provide the Board with the actual costs associated with the grant and see if the $10.00 per hour is enough.

The next issue on the agenda which pertained to the police work schedules had been completed and given to the Selectmen prior to the meeting. The last two issues were of a non-public nature, so before going into a non-public session, DK asked about the status of the new police cruiser. Chief Borgia informed him that they were expecting it tomorrow but wasn’t positive that it would arrive then. JB asked the Chief if the invoice from Belknap Communications LLC was for the light bar for the new cruiser and Borgia stated that it was.

The Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (c) at 7:27 p.m. on a motion by AH, seconded by RL with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 8:00 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by DK, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

On a motion by AH, seconded by RL the Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (c) at 8:01 p.m. with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 8:14 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by DK, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

AH made a motion to allow the Hodgdon’s an extension until the end of June. It was seconded by DK and passed with a unanimous vote. Karen Montgomery informed the Board that they would not be able to comply with Chief’s Krause request to show BFRI’s total expenditures in the Town’s budget. (BFRI’s expenditures came to $12,212.35 more than the Town’s 1st quarter appropriation payment for January through March, 2010). Karen explained that where the Town only actually paid the appropriation amount, that is all that can be shown on our books. Karen also mentioned that there should be a complete inventory of each building for both the auditor and for our records. The Board determined that a memo would be sent to each department head asking them to produce an inventory list. The Board next reviewed the proposed dirt policy and will wait for the attorney comments. A waiver form will also be created.

At 8:45 p.m. the Board discussed the next round Hazard Mitigation projects and the Road Agent was contacted to gather information for several roads/areas. Karen Montgomery will find out if towns that weren’t declared disaster areas (and didn’t receive FEMA funds) are eligible for the Hazard Mitigation money. McFarland Johnson will look at Hannah Nutter Bridge and prepare a projected project cost for the Selectmen.

The Board discussed legal issues and reviewed miscellaneous correspondence. It was determined that the Building Inspector’s letter regarding Joyce Parson’s complaint would be held until next week’s meeting.

On a motion by AH, seconded by RL the Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (c) at 8:54 p.m. with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 9:30 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by DK, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:35 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Karen Montgomery

Selectmen’s Secretary

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SELECTMEN'S OFFICE
Town of Barnstead
P.O. Box 11
Center Barnstead, NH  03225

Minutes
April 27th, 2010

Present: Chairman James Barnard (JB), Vice Chairman Andy Houle (AH), David Kerr (DK), and Robert LaRoche (RL). Katherine Grillo was unable to attend.

Chairman Barnard opened the meeting at 6:30 p.m. Following the Pledge of Allegiance, the Board signed the payroll, manifest, the minutes of 4/20/10, a forest fire bill, 1 intent to cut form, 1 abatement application, a letter to Officer Llewellyn, a memo to Treasurer Terry and a letter to Best Buy. AH made a motion to have the Chairman sign the wheeled excavator lease and DK seconded it, which passed with a unanimous vote. DK commented that he wanted Road Agent Carazzo to keep track of the cost(s) as this is not the cheapest way to go. DK added that not all the proposals were based on the same information.

AH asked that letters be sent from the Selectmen’s Office to the people whose bids/proposals are not accepted, rather than leaving it up to the Department Heads to contact them. AH made a motion to tentatively accept the Drug and Alcohol policy as written barring any changes from the Attorney. The motion was seconded by RL and passed with a unanimous vote. AH will e-mail Karen Montgomery a proposed copy of a dirt policy for the Board’s review.

The meeting was opened to public input at 6:45 p.m. Health Officer Bill Evans discussed the procedure regarding the invoice for the cleanup of Pettengill’s property. Joyce Parsons said that she had sent the Selectmen a letter (which they had received and read) regarding actions taken by the Building Inspector, Geof Fossett after the public hearing last week. Joyce (who works for the Dept. of Environmental Services, State of NH) informed the Board that Geof had called her Director and filed a complaint against Joyce’s actions at the public hearing. Joyce told the Board that Geof has threatened her livelihood and took away her first amendment right (freedom of speech). She went on to say that he (Geof) had no right to call her place of employment and complain about what she said at a public meeting. She stated that she was very upset, that she’s always spoken up at meetings and even had disagreements with other officials, but never had anything like this happen.

Joyce further stated that Geof has spoken to people in public against her. She told the Board that the damage he has done is astronomical – that he’s called her employer and because she works for the State, they don’t look very well at stuff like this (complaints). She said that she may not have a job and doesn’t know what will happen. JB said that he didn’t believe Joyce said anything at the public hearing about her working for the State and that she only represented herself as a taxpayer. JB asked if it would help if the Selectmen were to write a letter to her Director and Joyce told the group that she would let the minutes of the meeting and the newspaper support her side, but if that wasn’t enough she would come back to the Board. Before she left, she stated that if the minutes reflect that she was wrong, she would humbly apologize. Joyce thanked the Board for their support and left the meeting. Bill Evans suggested that the Board be careful in addressing this issue and RL told him that the Board can’t discuss or make any decisions without speaking to Geof first, JB agreed with.

RL informed the Board that he had spoken with the person in charge of the Cub Scouts Can trailer and that it will be moved down to the Town property where the buses park by the end of May. DK explained that the Historical Society is going to be fixing up the Bandstand and with Memorial Day coming up it should be moved as soon as possible.

At 6:55 p.m. Tim McDonald of Cool Air Clean Planet had completed the creation of an energy usage baseline on Town buildings and vehicles and presented the Board with the statistical report findings. The SDES Group will now contact the Town to do a complete energy audit on one or two buildings and then will present the Selectmen with their findings. Grants are available if the Board should decide to proceed once the findings are in.

At 7:45 p.m. Ed Tasker told the Board that he would be honored to participate in the perambulations of the surrounding towns. RL and DK will also participate.

At 8:00 p.m. the Board met with Fire Chief Krause and the first item of business was the signing of a regional hazmat agreement. Krause explained that it was part of a mutual aid force and a task force that was a private FEMA based funding rather than a tax based funding. He added that there was a onetime cost (paid years ago) for $2,200. Krause told the Board that the document is for the planning side of the operation and puts the Town in compliance with State and Federal regulations. AH made a motion to have the Chairman sign the HazMat document on behalf of the Board and RL seconded the motion. DK mentioned that we already participate with the Lakes Region HazMat and asked if this was a new task force. Chief Krause explained that this was a combination of Lakes and Central Regions. DK asked if Central included Lakes Region and Krause stated that it did.  The vote was called for and the motion passed with a unanimous vote.

Chief Krause next asked the Board to consider a policy to handle social mediums such as Facebook, Utube, etc. He relayed a story regarding a situation (out of State) where pictures were taken (by cellphone) of a patient who had lost an arm and the pictures appeared on the local news before any information had been released, which resulted in a huge lawsuit. Krause, who had brought two sample policies, will create a sample policy for the Board’s review.

At 8:17 p.m. Chief Krause and the Selectmen discussed a replacement ambulance and wanted to establish a committee to look at replacements. Krause, who stated the ambulance was on a 5 year replacement program, mentioned that the first show where people could look at new ambulances was in June and he wanted to get started. DK asked if it would basically be like the current one and Krause said that it would, with maybe a change on the chassis. Chief Krause will give the Selectmen a list of names for the committee.

The Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (c) at 8:30 p.m. on a motion by AH, seconded by RL with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 8:55 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by RL, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

DK, in reviewing the Com Star (ambulance) billing, noted that most of the ambulance trips listed the name of the hospital etc., where the patient was taken, but several trips had “no facility”.  Krause stated that he didn’t know what those calls were for but would find out.

On a motion by AH, seconded by RL the Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (a) at 9:00 p.m. with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 9:06 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by DK, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

The Board discussed legal issues and reviewed miscellaneous correspondence.

DK informed the Board that he had spoken with a representative from McFarland Johnson and they would like to schedule a walk through now that the Welch Road Bridge project is completed. The Road Agent and one or two Selectmen will be available to attend.

RL told the Board that no one had explained to him about the payout of his salary and expenses. JB told him to make arrangements with the Treasurer for quarterly or yearly payment of the salary and to keep track of his miles etc. for reimbursement of expenses.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:04 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Karen Montgomery

Selectmen’s Secretary

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SELECTMEN'S OFFICE
Town of Barnstead
P.O. Box 11
Center Barnstead, NH  03225
Minutes
April 20th, 2010

Present: Chairman James Barnard (JB), Vice Chairman Andy Houle (AH), Katherine Grillo, David Kerr (DK), and Robert LaRoche (RL).

Chairman Barnard opened the meeting at 6:30 p.m. The Board signed the payroll, manifest, the minutes of 4/13/10, a tax collector’s warrant, a gravel tax levy, an elderly exemption, a reimbursement request for the enforcement of underage drinking laws grant, 2 letters to Chief Borgia, and a letter to ComStar. AH made a motion to have the Chairman sign the TAN loan and Mango Security contract on behalf of the Board. The motion was seconded by DK and passed with a unanimous vote.

The Board reviewed and approved a request for a waiver of the stump dump fees for Jack O’Neil so that he can bring stumps from the tornado to the facility. AH made a motion to allow the waiver, which was seconded by KG and passed with a unanimous vote. The group relocated to the Town Hall to better accommodate the public.

At 6:37 p.m. Chief Borgia presented the Selectmen with a power point presentation regarding the phone system. Borgia reported that Officer Grow had completed a feasibility study and the new system being requested was a Voice Over IP (through MetroCast) but they would need the money upfront. JB asked if the police dept. was using the “1010” prefix and Borgia stated that they were, but that was for in-state calls. Borgia informed the Board that the police dept. had turned in all the pagers except one (Borgia’s) and JB asked if they still had cell phones, to which Borgia stated they did. JB commented that the system doesn’t allow for “911” and if the power went out or internet was down, there would be no phone service. Borgia stated that this system keeps one “hard “line so that goes through the Sheriff’s Dept.   Bill Haynes told the group that State Police is all Voice Over IP. The Board determined they would review all the material before making any decisions and Chief Borgia and Officer Grow left the meeting.

The meeting was opened to public input at 6:48 p.m. Jack O’Neil inquired about the “Welcome to Barnstead” sign that is still not completed after 2 years. A brief discussion ensued and it was determined that JB would speak with Gordon Preston to expedite the project.  Jeannie Terry informed the Board that the Historical Society would like permission to adopt the Bandstand in the center to fix it up before Memorial Day at no cost to the Town. RL stated that he was going to work on it and had asked the Building Inspector to look at it. JB informed the group that they had two other people look at it as well, including the prior Building Inspector. Jeannie explained that if the Historical Society finds that it needs construction work etc., they will come back before the Selectmen. The request was approved and JB commented that they needed to have it fixed so it could continue to be used.

JB next announced that the Town Hall was left a mess on Sunday evening and groups will be charged a cleaning fee if this continues. Jack O’Neil stated that he would speak with the group that uses it on Sunday evenings.

Bill Haynes told the Board that he read in the newspaper that the Board voted to keep the police cruiser and that he was discouraged as a taxpayer and Budget Committee that they were not getting rid of it. He further explained that the Budget Committee was told by Chief Borgia that the vehicle needed to be replaced as it was unusable and couldn’t last another year; adding that now they turned it around and are keeping it. He asked the Selectmen to each take a step back, look at what was presented and think about it.

JB announced that it was now time for the Public Hearing on Bed Bottom Inspections and they would continue their regular meeting after the hearing.

At 8:04 p.m. the Board returned to their regular meeting and RL addressed Bill Haynes’ comments regarding the police vehicle. RL felt that Bill Haynes’ comment was against his (RL’s) integrity.  RL stated that everyone he spoke with was for keeping the vehicle, that it was no extra cost, and that it’s in Chief Borgia’s budget. RL wondered if it was because of DK that Bill Haynes’s had said that about the police vehicle. Bill responded, saying, “Why RL would think it’s an affront on his integrity is beyond me”. Bill went on to say that he was there at the Budget Committee meetings when it was presented by Chief Borgia (pointing out that he did not see RL at any of those meetings). Bill stated that Chief Borgia told them the police vehicle was to be replaced, that it was an unsafe vehicle, had over 150,000 miles and posed a risk to the safety of his police officers. Bill added that to read in the paper that Borgia wanted to keep the vehicle as a spare in case a cruiser breaks down, was beyond him, especially as the police department has four other vehicles.

Bill went on to say that the people voted to replace the car and RL said that he didn’t agree. Bill told the Board that the vehicle will have to be maintained, even if it sits there and it will cost the Town money. When questioned about his vehicle knowledge by RL, Bill stated his credentials. RL asked if Bill knew the Chief or talked with him and Bill told him he talks with Borgia regularly. RL next asked Bill what he did for a living and Bill explained that he was a Sgt. with the State Police, and maintains a fleet of vehicles. KG commented about the maintenance and that it was also discussed about the vehicle being used by other town employees, such as the Building Inspector. Bill Haynes pointed out that if the vehicle was a marked cruiser, then people that are not officers could not use the car. RL told Bill that they had contacted the Dept. of Revenue for a legal opinion and it wasn’t illegal to keep the car. Bill stated that his opinion as a Budget Committee member and a taxpayer was that it was to replace the car. JB told the group that it was voted on and some of the Selectmen voted against keeping the car, and that he thought it was a dead issue.

The Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (b) at 8:20 p.m. on a motion by AH, seconded by RL with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; Kathy Grillo, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 9:55 p.m. and on a motion by DK, seconded by RL, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

On a motion by AH, seconded by DK the Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (a) at 9:58 p.m. with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; Kathy Grillo, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 10:02 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by DK, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

The Board discussed some problems with the payroll for the Enforcement of Underage Drinking Laws Grant (EUDL) and Chief Borgia will be asked to meet with the Board in two weeks. It was determined that the Board would wait on the request for a new phone system for the police. Karen Montgomery informed the Board that Chief Krause had provided the line item figures for the fire department budget and that he had scheduled an appointment for next Tuesday. KG told the group that she would be away on vacation for the next two weeks. JB updated the Board on the Pettengill court proceedings.

The Board discussed legal issues and reviewed miscellaneous correspondence.

On a motion by KG, seconded by RL the Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (a) at 10:40 p.m. with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; Kathy Grillo, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 10:45 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by KG, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

AH made a motion to approve Officer Llewllyn’s request regarding time lost from December 12, 2009. It was seconded by RL and passed with a unanimous vote. The Board briefly discussed that they are supposed to be notified in the event of any accident or injury of an employee.  RL asked about the MetroCast Cable Company and JB informed him that the contract would be coming up for negotiations. KG wondered if TDS could offer a better deal. The Board reviewed the Attorney’s suggested changes to the Drug & Alcohol Policy and KG said she was okay with the changes.

On a motion by AH, seconded by KG the Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (a) at 10:50 p.m. with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; Kathy Grillo, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 10:56 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by RL, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

AH made a motion to change the existing personnel policy regarding health and dental benefits for permanent part-time employees to allow permanent part-time employees the health and dental plans at 50% of the cost of any plan. The motion passed with the following vote; Jim Barnard, no; Andy Houle, yes; Kathy Grillo, yes; David Kerr, no; and Bob LaRoche, yes.

The meeting was adjourned at 11:00 p.m.                                                 

Respectfully submitted,

Karen Montgomery

Selectmen’s Secretary

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SELECTMEN'S OFFICE

Town of Barnstead

P.O. Box 11

Center Barnstead, NH  03225

Minutes

April 13th, 2010

Present: Chairman James Barnard (JB), Vice Chairman Andy Houle (AH), Katherine Grillo, David Kerr (DK), and Robert LaRoche (RL).

Chairman Barnard opened the meeting at 6:30 p.m. The Board signed the payroll, manifest, the minutes of 4/6/10, a chapter 165 lien, the TAN loan, the Hannah Nutter Bridge state aid program application, and 1 current use application. It was announced that the 7:00 p.m. appointment had rescheduled.

The Board agreed to allow JB to contact the Local Government Center (LGC) regarding health/dental information for the Suncook Valley Regional group. AH made a motion to have the Chairman sign the PSNH Pole Attachment application on behalf of the Board and it was seconded by DK. The motion passed with a unanimous vote. JB conducted the oath of office (swearing in) for AH & DK for the BCEP committee.

The meeting was opened to public input at 6:45 p.m. and Health Officer Bill Evans apologized to the group for being remiss in contacting Brian Gower regarding the septic system at the parsonage. Bill informed the Board that he had spoken with Dori Wiggin of Dept. of Environmental Services (DES) and the town can submit a minimum impact application for the Holmes Road mitigation project. Bill announced that the Pettengill case was scheduled for 1:00 p.m. this Thursday at Laconia District Court and that JB would appear with Bill.

The Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (d) at 6:47 p.m. on a motion by AH, seconded by KG with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; Kathy Grillo, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 7:04 p.m. and on a motion by DK, seconded by RL, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

AH made a motion to have Attorney Puffer place a lien on the Pettengill property for the garbage cleanup and KG seconded it. DK was concerned about the costs involved by having the Attorney place the lien and asked that it all be done as quickly as possible so as not to burn up legal fees. The motion passed with a unanimous vote.

At 7:07 p.m. the Board met with Road Agent Chris Carazzo, who asked for $5,642.40 from the FEMA monies to purchase culverts for 5 areas that consistently have problems when there are heavy rains. Carazzo explained that he did not budget for these areas and

wanted to upsize the culverts to 30” to fix the problem. JB asked what Carazzo had on hand and Chris told him he had two 30’s but they were already permitted for the Narrows Road (permits must be obtained from DES before starting work). Carazzo told the Board that he needed 2 for the “Piggery area”, 2 on John Tasker Road and 2 on Cooke Road. He added that he was just notified of a problem on Cooke Road (completely crushed and malfunctioning culvert) and didn’t know how it got overlooked before.

JB and KG asked how much was needed for pipe and Carazzo said that it was $5640 including Cooke Road. RL asked if the $5642 would take care of everything and Carazzo said that it would except for Depot Street. KG commented that now that we have Rob Tiede, who’s so good at this stuff (ditching, etc.) it was a big plus. Carazzo told the Board that there were 12 problem areas originally, but now they were down to 5, adding that Vail’s hill didn’t wash out and proper maintenance was the key. Chris went on to say that he had been hauling the scrap metal etc. off from the Highway Garage area and presented them with a check for $232.00. He stated that there was a lot more stuff to be hauled away and the money could reimburse the FEMA account.

DK asked if there was a full culvert list of what needed to be done in Town and referred to an old list that had been created after the 100 year flood (which contained about 12 or 13 culverts).  Chris told him they were marking each road as they do it and that he had already done that on Parade. JB asked him if he could make another list for the Board and Chris stated that he was doing the ones he had just mentioned first, as they were his primary focus. JB asked him if he had gotten a copy of the complaint regarding the culvert on Tamworth Trail and Chris told him that culvert was on the list. Chris went on to say that the ditches in Locke Lake are 3-4 feet deep, that the culvert on Tamworth is flowing and that it never backs up or comes over the road. JB stated that he looked at the culvert and it was just trickling. Chris told him that there were 2 culverts on Tamworth and that 1 was a complete failure with a sink hole, but it would be done this summer. JB asked if the last two floods were covered by FEMA and KM said that Belknap County had not met the criteria level for the first flood, so therefore were not eligible for FEMA funds.

AH made a motion to allow $5,640 of the FEMA money to be used for the purchase of culverts for the Road Agent and to reimburse the FEMA account with the money from the scrap material. KG seconded the motion and it was opened up for discussion. DK stated that he would rather see the budget line item (for culverts) get expended first then reimburse the line with the scrap metal money. Further discussion followed and JB asked how much the pipe costs. Chris told him it was $23.51 per lineal foot, which you buy in 20 foot sections (so 40 feet would be $940). Chris went on to say that he has returned money from his budget each year and RL felt that if Chris returned money each year, then his integrity is there. DK reminded the group that if there is money left, it’s work that did not get done (like crack sealing) and added that departments don’t “return money” from their budgets, they are held to a budget and cannot over expend. Chris stated that money for disasters come out of his budget. JB called for the vote on the motion and the following was recorded; JB, yes; AH, yes; KG, yes; DK, no; and RL, yes. The motion passed.

JB asked again when the culvert on Tamworth  (a written complaint) would be fixed and Chris stated that it was on his list, but Cooke Road was the priority. Chris next informed the Board that expenses for the last two floods, in which he had to call in subcontractors, came out of his budget and where there wouldn’t be any disaster money, wondered if those bills could be paid from the Emergency Management account. JB told him that it could not, as that money was set aside for emergencies and Director says when it should be used. Chris next told the group that if he didn’t get the magnesium order by May 15, the price would be going up. Chris told the Board that he would like to have it by May 1 and that he would get three prices for the Board to review.

Chris told the Board that he would like to sell the old army truck, the orange truck, the Ingraham roller and the old REO and the Board approved. An ad will be placed asking for bids on each piece of equipment.

On a motion by AH, seconded by KG the Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (a) at 7:40 p.m. with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; Kathy Grillo, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 8:15 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by KG, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

On a motion by AH, seconded by DK the Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (c) at 8:17 p.m. with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Andy Houle, yes; Kathy Grillo, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 9:03 p.m. and on a motion by AH, seconded by DK, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

The Board reviewed the drug and alcohol policy and determined that the attorney should be contacted regarding “zero tolerance”.

The Board discussed legal issues and reviewed miscellaneous correspondence. They also reviewed the information from other towns regarding Civil Rights Day and will make a decision on that later this year.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:40 p.m.                                                   

Respectfully submitted,                                  

Karen Montgomery

Selectmen’s Secretary                                    

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SELECTMEN'S OFFICE

Town of Barnstead

P.O. Box 11

Center Barnstead, NH  03225

Minutes

April 6th, 2010

Present: Chairman James Barnard (JB), Katherine Grillo, David Kerr (DK), and Robert LaRoche (RL). Vice Chairman Andy Houle (AH) was unable to attend.

Chairman Barnard opened the meeting at 6:30 p.m. The Board signed the payroll, manifest, the minutes of 3/30/10, a chapter 165 lien, 1 veteran’s credit, 6 abatement applications, 3 intent to excavates, 2 current use applications, 1 elderly exemption and two BCEP committee appointments. 

The Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (a) at 6:30 p.m. on a motion by DK, seconded by RL with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Kathy Grillo, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 7:04 p.m. and on a motion by DK, seconded by RL, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

DK made a motion to hire Rob Tiede as fulltime Highway employee at Grade 12 Step 5, $16.53 per hour. KG seconded the motion and it passed with a unanimous vote.

The Board next met with Nick Rott of Barnstead Fire Rescue Inc. who signed the warranty deeds for the two fire stations and property. Nick provided the Board with a letter from the bank stating that the notes were paid, adding that when he receives the promissory note he will provide a copy to them. Nick then signed over 3 titles (1971 M813A1, 1994 Chev 2500, 1998 Scot SA-3200). The Board thanked Nick for his cooperation and everyone was glad to be moving forward. KG mentioned that a person on the Fire Rescue has asked her some questions about future procedure and wondered if it would be helpful for the Board to have a meeting to inform everyone. Nick explained that they have discussed all this in the BFRI meetings but he would address it again. JB mentioned that employees can come before the Board with their questions as well. 

The Chairman opened the meeting to public input at 7:30 p.m. and Brian White asked the Board about a Barnstead cruiser parked in Pittsfield at the end of the construction area on Monday evening, April 5 at 8:30 p.m. JB explained that it could have been a detail but they would ask the Chief and find out. Brian told the Board there wasn’t any parking lights on, or blue lights, and no directional signals on but just parked on the side. Brian added that if it was a detail, as a Budget Committee Member he would expect to see it on the revenue side. DK asked Brian if he had the specs for the basement/flooring repairs and he stated that he did and would drop them off.

The Selectmen next met with Road Agent Chris Carazzo who told them the Highway crew would be going to 10 hour days next week (Monday – Thursday). Carazzo, who is not a fan of the 10 hour, 4 day work week, stated that the crew wanted it and he would give it a chance as long as he got 10 hours worth of work. Carazzo next asked if he could pursue getting a used gravel spreader box (which he budgeted for this year). He told the Board that a new one would be $8500 but a used one would be around $3500. The Board instructed him to check with the Treasurer first.

The Road Agent next asked the Board to reconsider a memo from October 27, 2009, instructing him not to allow depositing of excavated road materials on town employees’ or compensated elected officials’ property. DK suggested that the excavated materials be used first on the damaged portions of Class VI roads that Chief Krause had requested. JB explained that a lot of damage had occurred from the tornado and various disasters on these roads and they were able to bring them back to the condition they were in pre-disaster. Carazzo informed the Board that a tree had fallen across the Class VI portion of Province Road and the Board instructed him to remove it. RL suggested that the Board temporarily rescind the existing memo/policy regarding excavated materials until another policy is written and JB added that Carazzo must let the Selectmen’s Office know where the dirt is being taken. RL made a motion to temporarily rescind the dumping of excavated materials memo (dated 10/29/09) until a new policy is created and that the office will be notified of the dumping. DK seconded the motion and it passed with a unanimous vote. JB reiterated that they needed to fix the damaged roads and Chief Krause’s roads first.

At 7:51 p.m. RL informed the Board that he and the Road Agent had looked at the Town-owned property (formerly Roger’s) and that he believed Mr. Rogers’ removed a berm that used to hold back water from the river. RL added that the water now comes over and floods the area around the parsonage. JB commented that the parking area (where the buses park) did not fill up with water and RL told him that the water goes around and comes down a path towards the houses. Road Agent Carazzo commented that there were a couple of spillways where material where a couple loads of material would help, but another problem was that there was a clogged catch basin in front of the parsonage that the State needed to take care of. Deputy Fire Chief Shawn Mulcahy cautioned the group that the shoreline protection act does not allow any work within 200 feet of water and added that you don’t want to touch one thing until the proper permits are obtained, otherwise there would be huge fines involved. Karen Montgomery wondered if this might be eligible for a mitigation project grant and DK felt it would, but added that they would really need an engineering study done. Shawn suggested that RL and Carazzo speak with Mark Fraser and Jim Fougere first.

RL felt that where he wanted this done was more than 200 feet from the river and Shawn again cautioned that they needed to have it checked out. RL stated that when he was elected it was to help people and where there was a way to help people without costing

anything, he felt they should do it. RL added that they should not have to listen to this one or that one. JB informed him that the Selectmen are also there to protect the town and to uphold laws and regulations. The Road Agent stated that he would check with Jim Fougere (Conservation Committee) and Mark Fraser.

At 8:00 p.m. RL asked the Board if there was a way to give the parsonage permission to use the town’s property (where the parsonage’s septic, deck and garden is located) and JB told him no. RL commented that they have been using it for 60 years and DK mentioned that it has not been used for that long. JB told RL that the Board has been discussing this with the church (prior to RL and KG coming on board) and that they have instructed the church they cannot continue to use the towns property, but the church hasn’t responded. RL felt that it wasn’t up to them (the church), that maybe it was the Selectmen’s problem and JB told him that the Selectmen were not aware of it until recently and had to act on it, which opened up a can of worms, but they (the Selectmen) had to act on it. A terse exchange occurred with RL stating that he would keep bringing the issue up.

On a motion by KG, seconded by RL the Board went into Non-Public Session under RSA 91-A: 3 II (a) at 8:50 p.m. with the following vote recorded, Jim Barnard, yes; Kathy Grillo, yes; David Kerr, yes; and Bob LaRoche, yes. The Board came out of Non-Public Session at 8:55 p.m. and on a motion by DK, seconded by KG, the Board unanimously voted to seal the minutes of that meeting.

The Board discussed legal issues and reviewed miscellaneous correspondence.

At 9:06 p.m. DK updated the Board on the Route 28 repairs. Karen Montgomery explained to the Board that she had a conversation with the Dept. of Revenue (DRA) representative regarding the warrant article to replace a police cruiser. DRA said that the vehicle could go to another department and Karen reiterated JB’s comments of last week that the Board had discussed having the vehicle go to the Building Inspector or the Treasurer, but that it could not add to the fleet at the police department. The DRA representative also stated that she would put her findings in writing after she received an approved copy of the town meeting minutes. KG asked for the representative’s telephone number and Karen gave her the direct line to Shelley D., Barnstead’s representative.

Karen next informed the Board that Local Government Center confirmed coverage for the BFRI Fire buildings and equipment as of today. She also told the Board that the “Bed Bottom Inspections” only needed a public hearing and that one was scheduled for April 20, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. The Building Inspector will be informed and asked to attend.

The group discussed security issues in the building and Karen informed the Board that locks are being installed in the Town Clerk/Tax Collector’s Office.

RL read aloud an ad for the benefit breakfast for Andy Houle and mentioned that the Barnstead Country Store is asking vendors for donations.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:40 p.m.                                                   

Respectfully submitted,                                   

Karen Montgomery

Selectmen’s Secretary