Selectmen present:
Steve Cross, Steve Bennett, and Wilson Hess.
Also present:
Lillian Phillips, Jon Willette, Thelma Ledden, Sallyann Hadyniak, Audrey
Williams, Julia Raven, Craig Overlock, Jim Waterman, Jay Guber, Pete and Marion
Bowers.
The meeting was
opened at
With these
corrections the minutes were accepted.
CORRESPONDENCE:
1. A credit has been received from US
Cellular from the phones in the trucks.
2.
Note the date for recyclables will be December 18th as posted
on the
door.
3.
Steve Bennett spoke about quick claim deeds. Attorney Carver has sent a form to Elton
Nason representing Newport Securities and he has signed off his right to the
Earthen Dam. He has been unable to
formalize these agreements with Polly Shyka and Grassi although they are willing
to do so: as is Ron Luhn. The Luhn’s have an address at the Brunswick Air
Base. He has been unable to
get in touch with Mr. Sadowski.
4.
Budget requests are coming in and are being but in a folder. We now have one from Unity or Quimby
Library and one from Midcoast Mental Health.
5.
A CD from Peoples Bank comes due in December.
6.
Union Trust would like all of our business.
7.
MRC, municipal review committee, from Hampden, has sent their financial
statement for 2003.
8.
Maine Townsman has a good article on sand and salt and problems relating
to ground water pollution.
7. DOT has sent a letter and an application
for a community gateway program with grant money of $500 to $10,000. It will be given to someone on the
planning board. It has ideas for parks, landscapes, gazebos, clean-up project,
etc. Jay thought the Freedom
Academy Lot would be a good site.
9.
Grant money available for efficient delivery of services. More regionalization of services
required.
10. Notice from Penny and Addison Chase as
to layout and taking of land.
SELECTMEN’S
REPORTS:
ABATEMENTS: WILSON
HESS
The assessors will meet next Tuesday afternoon to discuss some of the
remaining possible abatements.
Julian Raven talked about an on going
problem related to
property owned by her son and grandson.
These will be discussed at an assessors meeting on
Tuesday.
STEVE
BENNETT
TRIO was here last week from
TOWN
OFFICIERS:
JIM
WATERMAN, FIRE CHIEF
He congratulated
Wilson Hess for his help in obtaining the Federal grant in Brooks for
$158,000. With addition money it
became $176,000 and was used for a new pumper.
He pointed out
that to qualify for some of these grants you need to be in a designated growth
area, so judged in a comprehensive plan, for a community grant.
Freedom is still
in the running for a fire grant.
He also announced
that there is an on-line safety program done by MMA.
The Northern Waldo
Emergency Coordinating Team, NWECT, has monthly meetings headed by Dale
Roley. In our office our mitigation
reports for
Through MMA, there
is a safety grant for lockers at the fire station and at the town garage. This needs to be signed by the Selectmen
and returned to
The Towns of
Freedom, Thorndike, and Brooks do not have an agreement. He has put together a contract agreement
that covers various areas. He
presented it to the Selectmen for their consideration.
Jim Waterman is
currently working on the budget for next year. He has recently been able to
obtain some used articles for the fire department, coats, pants, helmets, and
aluminum air bottles.
When questioned
about pay, he stated that they usually go with a set amount of money for the
fire chiefs. He also spoke
about a mitigation report, which is a type of disaster plan, including a snow
removal plan.
CEO: JAY
GUBER
Permits:
1.
Ken Boulier, permit for CMP
for barn on
2. Also Jay asked him if he would take care
of the meter problem at the town garage.
3. Forest harvesting at 59 Burnham Hill,
Plan 1, Map 42, Mr.
Harold Christianson, 30 acres selective cutting.
Regarding the issue on the
OLD BUSINESS:
Jon Willette brought up the reason why some
of the November minutes have not been put on the Web. In both minutes,
November
16th and the 23rd names were
mentioned that should not have been, related to
Hearing: There will be a hearing on December
8th at
1. Shall the Town of Freedom, sell the land
and buildings known as the Town Garage lot on Skidgel Lane by putting the
property out to sealed bids with the right to reject any and all bids.
2.
Shall Freedom purchase the
land and buildings currently known as the Beth Young Lot, currently 1 acre, on
Rt. 137 and
3.
Shall the Town of
Steve Cross mentioned that he had spoken to
some one that if there is a resignation of a road commissioner we could appoint
one until a town meeting.
NEW BUSINESS:
TRIO has a workshop on December 16 and or
17 costing $50. The purpose of this is to learn how to close out the year. It was agreed by the selectmen that both
Cindy and Hilary should attend A motion was made and seconded for them to
attend. All approved this.
A motion was made
to approve Craig Overlock to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Jim
Waterman, as the EMA, emergency management agent. This was seconded and approved by
all. He will need to come in to the
town office and be sworn in by the town clerk. This term runs to March of 2005.
A motion was made
to approve Lillian Phillips to the vacancy on the planning board created by the
resignation of Tony Neves, until March 2006. This was seconded and approved by
all. She will need to come in to
the town office to be sworn in by the town clerk.
FINANCIAL
WARRANTS:
Motion was made to approve and second the
following warrants:
1.
Payroll: $715.81.
2.
Recyclable waste contractor
for $250.
3.
The Waldo County Tax was not
approved and will have to wait. This was for $52, 664.94
Jon Willette suggested that time cards be
turned in on a weekly basis when it comes to the road department. It would be easier to keep track of when
they were driving.
OPEN SESSION:
Dave Bennett had Howard Fairfield come out
and he was told that a single cutting edge was to be put on the truck. What they had on it was wrong. Jon
talked with the Lee Brothers in relationship to the plows. They stated that a plow needs only one
cutting edge. Two blades do hold
the plow closer to the road, but creates other problems. Jon had put a single edge on the plow
and it has recently been changed to a two edge taking twice the length of
time. His question was, whom do we
listen to? Jon approached Mr. Hess
and Mr. Cross about his findings.
He wanted to know why Clint did it.
Secondly, the list of truck inspections
that Dave had made up are not being done prior to the trucks being taken out by
the drivers.
Thirdly, no hourly meters are in the trucks
even though they are supposed to be, so Jon has ordered some.
Also the trucks had lots of personal
trash. Jay Guber also saw the
condition of the trucks and stated that it looked like someone lived in
it.
Jon has not been called.
The selectmen had sort of put Dave Bennett
in charge but didn’t want to show favoritism. There followed a discussion as to
who was doing what.
Pete Bowers, again mentioned, the need for
a sign in and out sheet. Steve
Bennett thought it was a good idea.
Steve Cross has not been given the time
cards to sign as had been requested.
Jay Guber suggested that there be another
meeting to reinforce what the rules are. Egos are being stroked. Steve Bennett
didn’t think that we needed another meeting.
A motion was made and seconded that the
selectmen acting as road commissioner designate Dave Bennett for the balance of
the open term through March 2005 as our agent and recommend to him the draft
duties and responsibilities of the road commissioner as a guideline. This was
approved by all. Steve Bennett will
speak with Dave tonight. Wilson
Hess will no longer be checking on the roads unless asked to.
There will be a road committee meeting
tomorrow night at
Sallyann Hadyniak wanted to know if there
was gravel still available about the price the town could get it for. If so she would be interested.
There is still a problem in that not all
the computers are networking with TRIO.
They thought they had someone who could fix the problem.
A motion was made authorizing the town
clerk to call TRIO to get them here ASAP to get all three computers networking.
Some recruiting needs to be done to get someone to do some computer work out
front, while some one does computer on the back computer.
Thelma Ledden wanted to know that if we
only had an acre of land with a well on it, how we could build a salt and sand
facility on it. With the type of
containment facility that we could build it could be done, however it really
would be to our advantage to get the second lot. At the new site it wouldn’t
even have to be covered.
Respectfully
submitted,
Marion Bowers
Attachment
MINUTES: SELECTMEN’S MEETING,
Selectmen present:
Steve Bennett, Steve Cross and Wilson Hess.
Also present:
Audrey Williams, Betty Sienkiewicz, Thressa Abbott, Sallyann and Wassey
Hadyniak, Pete and Marion Bowers.
Steve Bennett
opened the meeting at
Minutes
of the last meeting were read and approved with the following
modifications.
1. Page 3, in relationship to who would be responsible if something
happened to Earthen Dam, Wilson Hess felt that it was a hypothetical question
and therefore the answer would be unknown.
2. Page 3, Corrected spelling, Rod Luhn, not Loon.
3. Page 4. Corrected
spelling, Mr. Nickless, not Nichols.
Change the word, reprimand to criticized related to the
books.
4. Page 6. Add the words, on Ron Price’s land in relationship to the
tower.
5. Page 7. Questioned if the amount related to the vendor warrant for
October 14th was corrected. Later in the meeting it was verified that
it was correct.
Thressa Abbott wanted to know more about the letter from George
Spurlick.
CORRESPONDENCE
1.Read Brugger had e-mailed the Selectmen a
letter stating that he was resigning his position with the school board
effective immediately. The Town
will have to appoint someone to fill out the balance of his term. There is a difference of opinion as to
when his term would expire. The
Superintendent feels it goes through 2006.
Mr. Brugger believes that it would end in March of 2005. The Town clerk will be asked to check
this out. Steve Cross had some
information, but it did not answer the question. According to his research it would not
cover the school board vacancy.
This vacancy would be filled according to Title 20-A, Section 2305. Currently we need more information
related to this. Steve Bennett will
follow up on this with MMA. Wilson
Hess felt that it was necessary that we have a representative, particularly now
with all that is going on with a huge project, building a new school. Read Brugger had been chair of the
building committee for the new school. There is a possible replacement that
Steve Bennett has spoken with and will be discussed under new business.
2. Letter related to Jim Waterman’s
resignation with EMA.
3. Better Roads magazine subscription. This is free, so we will continue to
receive this if we verify the correspondence.
4. A check
from MRC for $657.21; profit sharing that arrived on November 10th.
5. A notice
related to law books concerning Fisher law books, concerns
6. Unity
recycling report, available
7. Three
organizations that are soliciting for funds for next year, Midcoast Mental
Health Community Action, WCCA and UCB.
Steve Bennett has put them in a folder to consider at a latter date for
the 2005 budget.
SELECTMEN’S
REPORTS
WILSON HESS
Abatements report: The
Assessors met and considered ten abatement requests.
One was denied.
Two were put on hold; need physical evidence.
Seven were approved with a total abatement of
$1,209.56
Eleven other inquires or complaints. Of those three or four will probably
be considered as abatements.
According to the Town report last year,
there were thirty-four abatements.
Betty Sienkiewicz inquired as to whether
the applicants had made out the information in the center of the Town report.
This was not true in all cases, but there was sufficient information to consider
them.
KVCOG report:
1. Brown
field grants are for waste or water treatment facilities. The Town does not have one or any
surrounding towns with the exception of the town of Unity might have one.
2. Revolving
loan fund will hold a forum in January 2005 with all municipal officers from
western
There is an inclination of the majority, 5
to 4, to cut spending. The purposed
budget has a 2.2% increase overall with a 3.3% increase in the salary line. The committee voted 5 to 4, in three
instances to cut expenses. It is
roughly a six million dollar budget. It appears to Wilson Hess that salaries
will have to come down as well as some other costs. He feels that the goal is to cut
salaries down lower than the 3.3%.
It appears that they aiming for a level budget.
Steve Bennett wanted to know that when
salaries were mentioned if this applied to those that work in the Court
system. The answer was affirmative.
What is driving this was that when the
communication center was taken over by the County, that office had been shared
with
KVCOG felt that there was uncontrolled
spending in the school districts.
STEVE
BENNETT
Earthen dam: He recently had a conversation with Mr. Nason, who gave a
history of the dam and he told the Selectman that he is willing to sign off on
the dam.
Rod Luhn will also sign off. Mr. Bennett also said that Mr. Sadowski has
not been spoken to as yet regarding signing off of the property. The State also has to sign off. The
metes and bounds along with a description still need to be done.
Land negotiations: Property on Route 137
and
Pete Bowers questioned as to salt
contamination of wells. If the
facility were built on the far corner of the second lot, it would give more than
200 feet from the well on the first lot or corner lot. It also has to be 300 feet from the
abutters well, which it would be,
since it would be 700 or 800 feet from the abettors property line. Wilson Hess
said that the containment pad with a structure around it would be entirely
compliant to minimize any potential contamination from
salt.
Wilson Hess asked Jay Guber if a well
across the street would be a problem.
His response was that he didn’t think it would be with the potential Salt
and Sand facility being built in the previously mentioned
area.
There would be 600 feet road frontage. Of this amount 210 feet are on Route
137.
A motion was made and approved to go into
executive session regarding this possible purchase. After doing so, there was no
report, so no action was taken.
TOWN OFFICERS:
CEO
1. Jay Guber has received a building
application from Competitive Energy, which seems to be Maine Energy Aggregation
Company, LLC, out of
Steve Bennett had done some research in
relationship to this. Mars Hill has
a project. These wind towers are
250 feet tall at the hub. The
blades reach just under 400 feet high.
They are enormous. The base
is made of steel and 15 feet in diameter.
They are 600 to 700 feet high.
He then went on to read from an article
from the largest company nation-wide that erects wind towers. Their mission
statement reads “Evergreen wind power was founded on the promise that
responsible wind power development begins with community outreach and
support. At the outset of any
project initiative, Evergreen personnel meet first with local business and
political leaders to ensure that the host community is receptive to and
supportive of a purposed project.
Additional work continues only after there is a clear expression of
interest. Informational meetings
are held subsequently and local citizens are invited to participate in the
dialog. Evergreen has been careful
to select only those sites which are already partially developed and do not
present any special environmental concerns, benefit strong local support and
bring the maximum number of regional economic benefits.
Steve Bennett wonders why this company that
is involved locally hasn’t done as the mission statement from
Evergreen.
Wilson Hess feels we should look at this as
a potential business.
Jay Guber will be finding out more
information from the State and other permits that may be required before
erection of this tower. He has also
requested that they fence in the area.
Steve Bennett also wanted to learn when
they plan to meet with the Town and inform us as to what is going on. It was suggested that they come to a
Selectmen’s meeting to do this. Wilson Hess said that he would like this with
any potential new business that was considering coming to Freedom.
3. Permit to John Ingraham for a trailer on
Trash on
Steve Bennett spoke about the trash, which
included garbage, mattresses, and dog feces. According to him, it was awful. The Town
does not have an ordinance related to trash.
Jay will follow up on this with
DHS.
A seminar will be put on by the NFPA,
National Fire Protection Association, related to life and safety and building
codes on Dec 1st and 2nd. Jay Guber will pay for it himself until
it can be put on a warrant. The
cost is $50. The selectmen support
his attending.
COMPREHENSIVE
PLANNING
Theresa Abbott reported on the slow
progress they are making. They
could really use some help. They
are rewriting the new Comp plan from the one previously done. The State requires a mapping program for
the state to pass it. They have
been unable to find the one previously done. They are aware that it would require
updating. Wilson Hess felt that a
student from the college could be helpful.
Jay Guber has some maps of the
wetlands.
Steve Bennett felt that the Planning Board
needs to be more active and also the need for them to work with the
Comprehensive Board. There is a
great need for more ordinances. The Planning Board meets the 1st Wed
in December and he feels the Comprehensive Board should attend one of their
meetings.
OLD BUSINESS:
Proposal for Road Committee: The Town needs to vote to have the road
commissioner
appointed versus an elected position; a job description would need to be
done. A special Town meeting
is needed 90 days before the regular Town meeting. Years ago it was an appointed position,
for example, Red Mitchell, but in the last few years, it has been an elected
position. Steve Bennett felt that
research needs to be done to see how the position was filled and if the Town
ever voted on it.
Wilson Hess believes that an advisory came
down, that the Road Commissioner should not also be a Selectmen.
NEW BUSINESS:
The date for a special town meeting needs to be set. A motion was made to have December
14th for this special Town Meeting. This was seconded and approved.
Wilson Hess’s feeling regarding an
appointed road commissioner has softened over time, but not to the point that he
would hold this up going before the Town for a vote. He also wondered if the
Selectmen would want to or could serve as Road Commissioner.
Items for the special town meeting agenda
will be discussed next week, such as a land acquisition and Jay Guber suggested
a junkyard ordinance and also to increase the building permit fee.
Steve Bennett has talked with Lynn Hadyniak
regarding the school board vacancy and she is interested and enthusiastic about
the possibility of serving. She has
been involved with several school activities.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS:
The checkbook statement for the month of
September was given to Steve Bennett, but is missing the
reconciliation.
Wilson Hess feels that it appears that the
computer balance or statement balance agrees with the banking statement
on October 31st. Without
further review he would not want to make any comment about that checkbook
balance. The outstanding balance
does not seem correct. Steve
Bennett will not sign off on this.
Wilson Hess wants to be convinced it is correct. No action was taken regarding the
financial checking reconciliation for October.
Also in the Audits, in the Town, it was
stated that we should separate, the receivables, from the payroll
work.
Wilson Hess made a motion that in the
checking reconciliation sheet, the checking statement appears to reconcile. This is not a motion to accept the
checking reconciliation. It was seconded and approved by Wilson Hess and Steve
Cross. Steve Bennett opposed the
motion. It was not
signed.
A reprint from the October 19th
warrant which was not voted on, for payroll of $627.80 will be voted on
tonight. The original is missing
and it was mistakenly shredded.
Wilson Hess made a motion that in the absence of the original of the
October 19th warrant, we accept the reprint. This was seconded and
approved by all.
Reprint of the October 14th vendor warrant
was ratified last week.
November 16th warrant for
payroll $962.21. No accounts
payable are included. A motion to
pay this was made and seconded and approved by Wilson Hess and Steve Cross. Steve Bennett did not vote for it.
Cindy will not be available for the next
few weeks and Hilary Fleming will be doing the work. Hilary Fleming has shown signs of
understanding the accounting functions well. She would be more apt to notice the
difference in the numbers.
Board Policy Ordinance: “ In accordance
with 30-A, Section 5601-5603 of the Maine Statutes, the Town Treasurer will
disburse money only on a warrant for that purpose approved by the muncipal
officers by a majority vote at a public meeting and signed by a majority of the
Selectmen. A motion was made to
approve it as read and seconded
There shall no exception.”
Wilson Hess had a problem with the last
five words. He would like to have a
procedure which payroll can issue warrants without a public meeting. .
There was a discussion regarding payroll
warrants as an exception, an example being the special Town meeting set for
December 14th, a Tuesday night. There will be no opportunity to issue
payroll checks that week; it produces an undue hardship on Town employees.
Jay Guber stated that some people live
paycheck to paycheck.
Wilson Hess offered an amendment to strike
the last five words; there shall be no exception. Steve Cross seconded it. Steve Cross and Wilson Hess approved the
amendment. The original motion as
amended was made seconded and approved by a two to one vote. The policy now stands that there shall
be a public meeting on every warrant.
Wilson Hess pointed out that the only
exceptions that can be allowed by State law are school warrants and payroll and
only if we take action on them. He also stated that payroll warrant on December
14th would have to be decided upon.
Wilson Hess offered Craig Overlock the
emergency management position, EMA.
This was a motion, which was seconded and approved by
all.
OPEN SESSION
Jay Guber recommended that Bob Norwood, who
lives off the
The auditor, Craig Costello, recommended
TRIO. He again stated you need all
three financial reports before you sign off on the warrants.
There were other comments, such as using
Quicken. However the State or the
Auditor does not recommend this system since you can change entries. TRIO puts a check and balance on the
program.
The meeting
adjourned at
Respectfully
submitted,
Marion
Bowers
Attachment: Board
policy.
No Meeting on November 2, 2004 due to
Election!
MINUTES 0F OCTOBER 26, 2004
SELECTMEN’S MEETING
Selectmen present:
Steve Bennett, Steve Cross, and Wilson Hess.
Also present:
Thressa Abbott, Sallyann Hadyniak, Betty Sinkiewicz, Lillian Phillips, Jay
Guber, Dottie Chase and Marion Bowers.
Steve Bennett
called the meeting to order 6:01 p.m.
The minutes of the
meeting were read and approved after corrections in
spelling.
1. Hilary is the correct spelling.
2. Correspondence is the correct spelling.
CORRESPONDENCE:
Neither Steve Cross nor Wilson Hess had any
correspondence.
1. Steve
Bennett had received an invitation to a workshop, which Peter Coughlin will be
presenting. He will give it
to someone on the Road Committee.
2. KVOG has
requested an update on the selectmen and officials. This was made out today and
faxed.
Dr. Lee was to
have been to the meeting tonight, but is not present or will be late. He never
did show up.
SELECTMEN’S
REPORT:
Steve Cross had none, but was welcomed back after his absence.
Wilson Hess has been working on the
municipal valuation return, which is typically due on November 19th, or 30 days
from the commitment.
He expects to have this done by November 19th.
No one from the Road Committee was here so Wilson Hess spoke on their
behalf.
It is his understanding that the salt and sand is pretty much up and we
have received a bill for 2/3s of it and will be receiving a bill for the balance
soon.
So far there have been
five abatements to process. He
would like to have the Selectmen {Assessors} meet and review the requests. A date of November 5th around
9 a.m. was set. Perhaps there will be more requests by
then.
According to the
computer there are 682 parcels of real estate, which is
Significantly
larger than told to the Selectmen. The reasons for this maybe due to
subdivisions, an inaccurate number previously reported, and a few that maybe
missing. There were five new
parcels and or buildings in 2004.
Steve Bennett questioned if the subdivision of Mike Turner’s on the
Greeley and
Albion Rd had turned up.
Wilson Hess felt that he had recently seen it along with Cindy in the
passed couple of weeks. He will
look for it.
Steve Bennett wondered if the CAMA program was ever loaded in a
meaningful
way. Wilson Hess stated that
it was loaded into Lotus-Smart Suite.
Steve Bennett spoke
about Workers Comp coverage. We
have to cover each firefighter at the cost of $500 each. Jim Waterman let him know that
there were a total of eleven of them from the Town, five from Montville, five
from Knox. Exceptions are made if
we have an agreement with the other towns for mutual-aid agreement, if so we do
not have to cover them. We do have
an agreement with Montville, so they cover their five firefighters. We cover those from Knox. In our files, we have agreements with
Unity, Albion, Montville, and Thorndike.
Jim Waterman had given him two other towns, which were Palermo and
Brooks, but there are no agreements in the files for them. So we have sixteen firefighters to
cover.
Our estimated workers comp works out to slightly less than $82,000. This is close to what it was two years
ago.
Wilson Hess inquired as to the cost of this. Steve Bennett guessed that it would be
around $3,500.
TOWN OFFICERS:
CEO: Jay Guber
Steve Bennett requested that Jay Guber approach the Selectmen’s table, he
then proceeded to present Jay with a Boston Red Sox’s cap. Jay is a Yankees fan.
Jay Guber stated that
there is an urgent need to do something about the hazardous electrical meter box
and wire at the Town Garage. Ken
Boulier had been asked for an estimate to rewire the entire garage. None was received. Steven Bennett made a motion to
authorize Wilson Hess to contact Ken Boulier as soon as possible to mount a
meter box and the wire to the outside of the
Town Garage. The
motion was seconded and approved.
Jay has been
checking on the progress of those parties with permits.
He questioned if a
request for a permit had been sought by an individual putting up a weather
tower. There are stakes in the
ground, but no permit.
No paper work has
been received from a Mr. Nelson who is doing a tree harvest on the Lingley
parcel. There was a question as to
whether he would need a culvert according to Wilson Hess. The town could put in the culvert,
but who would supply it? This could be either the town or the individual. Steve Cross said that a used culvert
could be put in which could be removed after the timber harvest. Jay Guber said that the Lee Bros. had
some used culverts.
TOWN BOARDS:
PUBLIC WORKS
COMMITTEE
Steve Bennett
spoke about the snow plowing positions.
There are eight people who have been selected and assigned to different
shifts and back-up drivers.
First Shift: Clint Spaulding and Lendall
Chase.
Second Shift: Steve Spaulding and Gilman
Williams
Emergency Drivers:
Herb Abbott, Dave Bennett, Warren Spaulding and
Christine
Allen.
No driver should
drive more than eight hours if at all possible. This was
discussed with MMA Risk
Management. A discussion regarding
this followed. Steve Cross, who has
driven a snowplow, felt that they could do ten hours.
Steve Bennett felt
that since we have extra drivers, we should spread the time around. A question
was asked regarding overtime if driving more than eight hours. Wilson Hess felt that forty hours had to
be worked before overtime was a factor.
A motion was made,
seconded and approved that the drivers drive no more than eight hours if at all
possible. This was approved.
Wilson Hess also felt that there should be a four-hour break before they drive
again.
Herb Abbott will
be the call out person.
Clint has been
asked to help train the new drivers and to sit in as a coach with them. He was
agreeable to this. There was a
brief discussion of whether they need a man to run the loader. Steve Cross did not feel this was
necessary. It was a waste of
manpower and cost.
Jay Guber felt
that the drivers be versed in the proper procedures to use in using the loader.
Rotation of
driving is important according to Steve Bennett.
Wilson Hess
brought up the fact that there are several areas that have been discussed in the
past and still need attention before the ground freezes.
1. Ayer Ridge
Rd culvert needs attention.
2. Culvert at
Keller’s, near Bo Sellect’s
3. Stevens
Rd, a request of Cy Reynolds for ditching or gravel
4. Waning Rd.
has big holes at the bottom of the hill.
Needs cold patch or gravel.
5. Ditching
by Tom Fleming’s
6. Plugged
culverts by Audrey Williams, along with other culverts that need to be flushed
out.
Are these things
going to get done before the weather prevents attending to
them?
Steve Bennett will
call Dave Bennett about this list and decide what can be done now and what can
be put off.
Steve Cross
wondered if we could lease a piece of equipment and if insurance would cover it.
Steve Bennett and Wilson Hess both felt that it would be covered, but Wilson
pointed out anyone can sue anyone.
Jay Guber
suggested that we lease the jobs out to someone who is local.
Steve Bennett
wondered if the wing of the plow could help to alleviate some of the run-off
problem that they had last year.
The storms last year were unusual.
There are wires, which demand special attention according to Wilson Hess.
Steve Cross said
that it would be helpful to take two or three scoops of snow away from the
beginning of the culvert.
A resident on
Clark Rd spoke to Wilson Hess about a conversation he had with someone who was
driving a grader for the town of Unity.
They were not going to grade or plow beyond his house. An arrangement had been written in the
past with Unity according to Steve Cross that they, meaning Unity, do the last
few yards of the road.
Steve Bennett will
speak with Leroy Trull, Unity Road Commissioner and discuss the situation with
him. Lee Bros. has been doing the
plowing on Unity Road and it may be that the contractor needs to be informed of
the agreement.
Jon Willette
installed a new alternator today on one of the trucks. The bill was for $150. He is also working on a gearbox. Later, there will be a bill for that.
COMPREHENSIVE BOARD:
No report
tonight.
OLD BUSINESS:
There is a
workshop for people on the planning board on November 3rd. There are five individuals who would
like to attend. A motion was made,
seconded and approved to pay the fee of $50 for each individual to attend, for a
total of $150.00. No travel
expenses will be paid. Steve
Bennett thought that they were all going to go in his car.
NEW BUSINESS:
Warrants: none
available to be signed tonight.
Approval regarding
the Plow Truck drivers has been discussed under the Public Works
Committee.
Warren Spaulding
would like to cut a line of trees behind his barn and the 3rd base
line and dugout. He would leave trees that are on the line or in the wall. Then
he could remove all of the stuff that had been thrown in there over the
years. There were several ideas on
what to do with the wood. John
Willette could come in and do stumpage, firewood would be available for a fee to
the town and or it could be given away.
The line is pretty
well marked according to Steve Bennett.
All the trees that would be cut are on the Town land.
Wilson Hess felt
that he had a bias regarding removing the trees. He felt that someone with expertise in
this matter such as an urban forester makes this decision. Trees can be taken
down quickly, but take years to grow to maturity. According to Steve Bennett most of them
are locust trees.
Steve Bennett felt
that if the trees were removed, the area could be cleaned up.
Steve Bennett felt
that Wilson Hess should talk to the Recreation Committee. They were also considering making some
of this an area for
Parking.
Steve Cross felt
that we should not hire a forester regarding this issue.
Wilson Hess will
follow up regarding this matter. He has access to knowledgeable individuals in
this regard.
As to what to do
with the trees that are removed, Wilson Hess felt that having firewood for the
needy would be a good idea. Both
Steve Cross and Steve Bennett agreed with that idea.
Jay Guber, sitting
beside the air-conditioner, felt that it was time to remove it. This will be done.
Also there will be
no Selectmen’s meeting next week, Election Day.
The meeting was
adjourned at 7:20 p.m.
Respectfully
submitted,
Marion
Bowers
Minutes of the
Town of Freedom Selectmen’s Meeting October 19, 2004
Those in
attendance were 1st. Selectman Steve Bennett, 2nd
Selectman Wilson Hess and 3rd. Selectman Steve Cross was absent due
to illness.
Also present were,
Thressa Abbott, Betty Sienkiewicz, Thelma Ledden, Barbara Higgins, Diane Lee,
Dave Bennett, Tom and Hilery Fleming, Jay Guber and Sallyann
Hadyniak.
1st.
Selectman Steve Bennett called the meeting to order at 6
p.m.
Minutes of the Previous
Meeting:
The minutes were
corrected to read as follows:
A. A.
Page 2, corrected the spelling
of Hiliary, to Hilary
B.
B.
Page 3, there was a discussion
in the minutes authorizing Dave Bennett to do the work at $820.20 but the motion
made by Wilson Hess and second by Steve Bennett was left out. It is now corrected to read the motion
was made and carried. Wilson Hess wanted to honor the correction showing that a
motion was made by him and second by Steve Bennett authorizing Dave Bennett to
do the work.
C.
C.
Page 4, Craig Overlock and not Keith
Overlock is someone who is interested in the position as emergency management
officer when Jim Waterman is ready to terminate the
position.
D. D.
Page 2, Steve Bennett made a
comment and wanted it noted in the minutes that the cost of workmen’s comp. is
$2,593.00 a year.
Wilson Hess made a motion to accept the
corrections as read and Steve Bennett second it. Motion made and
carried.
Steve Bennett
welcomed guests Barbara Higgins and Diane Lee. They came to the meeting to speak to the
Selectmen about their concerns of their family cemetery located on the corner of
Raven and Ayer Ridge Road, right behind the light pole. Their great grandfather is buried
there. Since the son of Eric Weed
(Shawn) built a house on the land, he does not want the trees cut down because
he does not want to see the cemetery from his house. Prior to building his home, the people
accessed the cemetery by Ayer Ridge Road.
Mrs. Larson also said she would allow them to go through her property and
was willing to move the cemetery onto her land just to show how good hearted she
is. Wilson Hess did some research
regarding the cemetery and this is what it yielded. There are two classes of cemeteries that
the town has responsibility for, one is a public cemetery that the town in
essence owns, and the other is a type of private cemetery that the town has an
obligation according to state law.
It comes under the Ancient Burial Ground that was created in 1880. The town has an obligation to go in and
clean up the cemetery if there is a veteran buried there. After a lengthy discussion, Mr. Hess
stated that the town has no authority or mandate to go in and do that because
there isn’t a veteran buried there.
It was decided that this problem be handled between the people
privately. Mr. Hess also looked for
an easement or a right of way but was unable to find one. Thressa Abbott, Betty Sienkiewicz and
Wilson Hess had a conversation with the Weeds and they were welcomed to attend
this meeting but didn’t show up.
There are 6 people buried there between the garage and the road. They were buried as far back as 1847 and
this private property now belongs to someone else. There is no more then 150 feet between
the side of the garage and the road.
Steve Bennett
stated that there should be access to any cemetery. He wants to be quoted as saying, “by not
allowing access, is not being very neighborly to say” no”, you can’t go in there”.! It may be legal, but not right. Since there isn’t any easement, it will
be up to the people. Mrs. Briggs
was the name of the Grandmother.
Mr. Hess said to be kind and persistent. It is not reasonable to say “no”, you
can’t go in there.
CORRESPONDENCE:
A. Mr. Hess did not have any
correspondence.
B Mr. Bennett said a letter came from the
Maine Revenue Services showing the proposed town valuation of Waldo County 2005
for the Town of Freedom is 35 million.
It is less then 33 million now.
Mr. Hess said we should not appeal this.
Knox proposal is 37
million
Brooks is 42
million
Thorndike 32
million
Troy is 36
million
Unity is 73
million
Palermo is 103
million (has Sheepskin Lake)
Liberty is 75
million
SELECTMEN’S
REPORT:
A. A.
Steve Bennett is still working
on the Workmen’s Comp. (Jim Waterman was suppose to be at this meeting but
wasn’t). Mr. Bennett found out that
they do count every volunteer fireman is covered by our Workmen’s Comp. but we
have to add $500.00 per fireman.
There are 18 firemen from Freedom and we must cover other firemen from
other towns. We have Mutual Aid
Agreements with Unity, Albion, Montville and Thorndike. Mr. Hess stated that he believes that we
have a written Mutual Aid Agreement with Knox for some time. If we don’t have a Mutual Aid Agreement
with Knox we will have to add them onto our Workmen’s
Comp.
B.
B.
Plow Truck Drivers: We have two completed applications and 4
others incomplete. Mr. Hess stated
that there is snow predicted in the very near future and must be prepared by
having drivers. Mr. Hess and Mr.
Bennett will meet on Friday, October 22, at 8 a.m. to go over the
applications.
C.
C.
There is a position available
on the Planning Board and Mr. Bennett asked if anyone was
interested.
TOWN BOARDS:
CEO:
Jay Guber reported that he gave out a
permit to:
A. A.
Jeff and Murial Murch over on
423 Greeley Road for a garage and wood shed.
B.
B.
Mr. Guber received a notice from Digsafe
that will be posted in Town Hall so the people will know who to contact by using
the 800 number on utilizing Digsafe and the new Public Utility Commissions
rules.
C.
C.
Jay received a call from
gentlemen in Portland asking if a permit was needed to erect a weather tower
(approximately 130 feet tall) on Ron Prices property up on Beaver Ridge, This
will be only temporary for about a year.
Jay is waiting for more information regarding the name of the company
etc. Jay also assured him that a
permit is required. Cindy is
mailing the application to Portland and when arrangements are made to check out
the site, Mr. Bennett stated he would like to be there. Here is another reason why a
comprehensive plan is necessary.
D. D.
Mr. Hess asked Jay if he is familiar with
any ordinance that property owners will be able to show proof of insurance for
their property. There are a number
of properties especially Mobil homes in town that might be uninsurable by
today’s standards. Jay is not
aware.
PUBLIC WORKS
COMMITTEE:
Dave Bennett reported
that there the gear box is not in proper working order and he called and found
out it would cost $863.00 for a new gear box. Jon Willette and Dave will take it apart
tomorrow to see what they can find out what is causing the problem. Truck A (2000) is all good to go. The bid came in for $120.00 less then
quoted and Dave welded cracks. It’s
ready to go and next spring Dave would like to redo the pins, etc. Right now it’s in good
shape.
COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING
COMMITTEE:
Hilery Fleming,
chairman of the CPC handed out copies of the survey with their grand
totals. There were 387 given out
and there were 120 returned showing a 30% return which was very
good!
Mrs. Fleming gave
a lengthy report by going over all the categories and figures. Copy attached to the minutes. Jay Guber complimented the CPC on a
super job.
OLD BUSINESS:
Mr. Hess gave a
report regarding the 2004 taxes which came off the municipal tax rate
calculation form. Our total
valuation went up 3 hundredths of a percent which is to say it didn’t
change. Although two components
have changed. The real estate
valuation (trying to attempt the spread evaluation over 4 of the 5 classes and
not to keep it all in 2 classes of the property) went down a ¼% as a result of
that. On average, more went down
then went up. Results may
vary. There is more then
$300,000.00 in new property in town.
That means that more properties went down then up. The total valuation bases five
hundredths of a percent and hasn’t really changed. Personal property went up quite a bit
due to the addition of less then 10 pieces of personal property that had higher
valuation. Some were business
related types of things. County tax
is up 16%. The municipal
appropriation is down 2 ¼ %. School
appropriations are up almost 6%.
The total appropriations the town has to raise is up 2 ½%. Valuation stayed the same. The amount we
have to raise came down a little bit.
Taking everything into consideration, Mr. Hess announced that the mill
rate will remain the same as last year at 12.5%. If your taxes go up, its because of the
assessment and you know who to blame for that and if it went down, you will
remember who to thank.
Mr. Hess made a
motion to set the mill rate based upon the Municipal Tax Rate Calculation Form
at 12.5 mills. It was second by
Steve Bennett. Motion made and
carried.
The second motion
made by Mr. Hess is to authorize the assessors to prepare a Certificate of
Assessment, a Municipal Valuation Return, and a Municipal Tax Assessment Warrant
based upon the Municipal Tax Rate Calculation Form. The motion was second by Steve
Bennett. Motion made and
carried. Paper work should be
finished tomorrow and look for the taxes the first of the
week.
NEW BUSINESS:
No Warrant was
available.
OPEN SESSION:
Tom Fleming asked
if any road work was going on because down by his house by his mailbox there is
a gully that the mailman is running into all the time causing the road to chip
away. It needs to be filled. Someone will be sent to look into
it.
ADJOURNMENT:
Mr. Bennett made a motion to close the
meeting at 8:34 p.m. and it was second by Mr. Hess. Motion made and
carried.
Respectfully
submitted,
Sallyann
Hadyniak
MINUTES OF THE OCTOBER 12, 2004 SELECTMEN’S
MEETING
Selectmen present:
Steve Bennett and Wilson Hess.
Steve Cross is recuperating from his
hospitalization.
Also present: Dave
Bennett, Clint Spaulding, Thressa Abbott, Betty Sienkiewicz, Jay Guber and
Marion Bowers.
Steve Bennett
called the meeting to order at 6:02 p.m.
The minutes of the
last meeting were approved with one minor correction. On page 3, paragraph 3
should read that “if a cable is cut with a spade there is no fine.”
CORRESPONDENCE:
Steve Bennett read
a letter from Tony Neves announcing his resignation from the Planning Board
since he will be moving to Albion.
A letter will be composed by Steve Bennett thanking him for his service.
A letter initiated
by the city of Brewer encouraging the Town to participate in a resolution to the
State of Maine for lowering property taxes was sent to the Town by the MMA
asking us to pass the resolution.
The purpose of this letter is to encourage the school district, because
of the passage of the referendum in June, [which takes school funding from 35%
from the State to 55% from the State] to notify Towns how much of the gap is
created by this passage. Towns need to be notified of this and encouraged to
keep spending down. No action was taken on this.
SELECTMEN’S
REPORTS:
Wilson Hess
discussed the progress of the 2004 taxes. Basically Cindy is trying to get all
the information into the computer, which is proving to be very frustrating
because the computer is frequently down.
She spent most of the afternoon checking up on property transfers in 2003
and having the correct addresses.
Wilson will double-check the information for correctness. He also communicated that he will
write up a summary of the accessing guidelines he used. Steve Cross did work with him on
assessing some of the properties, as well as Steve Bennett, but it was primarily
Wilson Hess’s project.
This year
properties were focused on, Personal property and commercial property were left
as they had been last year.
Steve Bennett did
comment on finding in many cases the measurements of properties were different
than they had been previously. All
properties will be assessed at 100%.
Last year some were at 80%, others at 100%. So this year, the valuation will be
consistent.
Action should be
taken next week on the taxes.
Steve Bennett
discussed the workers comp renewal.
For 2005 there is an estimated payroll that has to be made. We have hardly any workers comp claim
history. Policies that are in
force, such as physicals, seat belts in vehicles, safety programs etc. are a
help to us and we can improve in that area. MMA risk management audited
pay roll was $82,000+ for 2003; for 2004 it was $68,000 estimated. Why the difference? The payroll ledger actually was
$73,000. The word “audit” may be
the reason as only CPA’s can do this.
Also, anyone who
gets a paycheck is covered by workers comp unless they are sub-contractors.
In 2003 we had forty people get a
paycheck according to Steve Bennett.
Wilson Hess
wondered how much did the Town pay for the workers comp policy for 2003. Steve Bennett will have to check on the
figures. In doing so, he found that the Town paid
$2,593.00
PLANNING BOARD met
last week and they are willing to take on the project of discontinued roads
according to Steve Bennett.
There are many lose ends.
They will study and clarify the issue. If the road was not discontinued
properly the resident could request the town to maintain the road. In the 50’s there was a group of roads
that were discontinued related to maintenance, but open as a public way
forever. They were done
correctly. There are other
roads, which are in a gray area.
Wilson Hess referred to a statue that
related, he thought, that if the Town for 25 to 30 years treats a road as if it
were a discontinued road, it is classified as an abandoned road.
Steve Cross has
town warrants that go way back to 1911 and Steve Bennett has made a list of any
articles related to roads.
Wilson Hess also
stated that there is a provision that the town can reclaim a road for purposes
of recreation, such as hiking, biking, etc.
PLOW TRUCK
DRIVERS:
Steve Bennett has
had eleven inquiries related to this position. Today there were at least four. An
application and a background check have to be signed by everyone. The amount of driving the applicant
wants to do needs to be known. Steve Bennett has used the term primary, backup
or emergency driver to help differentiate.
Wilson Hess
reminded Steve Bennett about using the term “full time.” Full time in this case
may not mean a forty-hour workweek.
The amount of
hours a driver can do is unknown.
Steve Bennett
wanted to know if Clint Spaulding wanted to be a primary driver and the answer
was yes. Paper work still needs to
be done.
TOWN BOARDS:
COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING
BOARD
Hilary Fleming has requested time to be here next
week.
PLANNING BOARD:
Wilson Hess suggested that we begin looking for a replacement for Tony
Neves.
Steve Bennett agreed and has a couple of people in mind.
ROAD COMMITTEE:
The committee did meet and Herb Abbott will be the call out man for snow
plowing.
Truck #8 needs to have the backing angle plow changed according to both
Dave Bennett and Clint Spaulding.
The cutting edges were worn off and the bolts were cut off. Howard
Fairfield would charge $701.00 for a piece of angle and if they installed it,
the cost would be $1,1000.
Dave Bennett came up with an estimate of $820.20 for the material and
labor if he did it himself. This
would include new shoes. A double
cutting edge is also needed. The
truck itself is not out of service.
Wilson Hess wanted it understood that Dave
Bennett would order the material and do the work. This is so recorded in the minutes. The
motion was made by Wilson Hess and seconded by Steve Bennett to authorize Dave
Bennett to do the work.
In an emergency the ‘V’ plow can hook into
the truck according to Clint Spaulding.
Clint Spaulding has looked into the cost of
sand. Roger Littlefield has sand
that has been screened. It is good
sand when screened. This can be
delivered for $7.00 a yard to our yard. Steve Bennett felt this was good
material.
Clint Spaulding will be doing the hauling
of the sand. We will be getting
2000 yards. Elwin guessed that we
had 1500 yards at present.
Wilson Hess made a motion that we should
authorize Roger Littlefield for sand at $7.00 per yard to be delivered to our
storage yard for 2,000 yards. This
was seconded and approved. This would cost the Town
$14,000.
Clint Spaulding needs to visit Steve Cross
to learn who the contact person is for salt that we need according to Wilson
Hess. Clint also said that it would
not be a problem if the salt and sand became mixed. Wilson Hess wondered if a tarp were
needed. Clint said it wouldn’t
hurt. He did mention using potash
to keep it from freezing. We would need two loads as a guess. Last year there was only one and this
was insufficient. Wilson Hess felt
that for $750 to $1,000 it would be worthwhile to the crew. He asked Clint to check into it and see
what would be the best action for the Selectmen to take.
Salaries have to be considered as
well. The entire public works
department for winter and summer roads was around $31,000 according to Steve
Bennett.
He also thanked both Dave Bennett and Clint
Spaulding for the work they have done in relationship to the roads and
equipment.
Wilson Hess felt that if we spent every
penny of that money, the monies for summer and winter roads, and the residents
were happy this would satisfy him.
Last year the roads were not maintained as they had been in the past.
JAY GUBER informed the Selectmen that the
Road Committee needs to meet with them at some point.
He also commented on the fact that he was
waiting for the Robitalles to call him.
On other permit holders, he has made the
second and third check.
Jay, also thought, that Lissa Widoff might
be interested in serving on the Planning Board.
NEW BUSINESS:
FINANCIAL WARRANTS were not ready to be signed.
Executive Session for land negotiations
will not be brought up tonight.
OPEN
SESSION:
Wilson Hess stated that Jim Waterman is
ready to act on terminating his position as emergency management officer. He has found that Craig Overlock is
interested in the position.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:06
p.m.
Respectfully
submitted,
Marion Bowers
MINUTES OF THE OCTOBER 5, 2004 SELECTMEN’S
MEETING
Selectmen present:
Steve Bennett and Wilson Hess.
Steve Cross was absent because of medical reasons.
Also present:
Sallyann Hadyniak, Betty Sienkiewicz, Theressa Abbott, Dave Bennett, Jay Guber
and Marion Bowers.
Steve Bennett
opened the meeting at 7 p. m.
Minutes of the
last meeting were approved after the following
corrections:
Page 2. Should read
discontinued and abandoned roads.
Page 4. An informational
hearing requires 7 days. A
thirty-five day
notice is required too have it appear on the ballot in
November.
CORRESPONDANCE:
SELECTMEN’S
REPORTS:
Steve Cross is being transferred to Tall Pines for rehabilitation
according to
Wilson Hess.
Wilson Hess reported on the new Trio
Windows Version Software Program installed. It is a much easier program to use. However the printers are not working,
they were not re-installed properly.
He next talked about the assessment methods that were used in
relationship to the taxes. The valuation of the Town is slightly higher than it
was last year.
Expenses will be about the same as last year. [Increases are due to
higher County and School District taxes.
Valuation at 100% by the assessors was spread through a larger range than
last year. Last year property was
listed as either “B” or “C”. This year it is more broadly ranged. There are no “A” properties. Last year,
if the house was built after 1975 it was considered a “B” house; those built
before 1975 were considered a “C” house. Some houses in town were not typical
and notes have been made to document why they were classified as they were.
Trailers have been depreciated according to
a schedule that the assessors have established. The manual did not have a schedule. Depreciation is done in ten- year
increments. Basically if a trailer
up to ten years old there is no depreciation, between ten years and twenty
years, depreciation is at 30% and if more than twenty years old there is a
depreciation of 60%.
What makes an “A” house was a question
asked. Their structure has heavy framing timbers, the walls are 2X6, and
insulation like a good cents home, and the grading of the doors and window are
of high quality.
Steve Bennett commented on neighborhood
homes affecting the valuation as well.
Land assessment was not prioritized unless
abatements had been dealt with within the last few months. No hard look was done on commercial
property. A few garages and
tractors were found.
Steve Bennett suggested that these
assessments would be put on the CAMA computer program. This program is used by a lot of small
towns.
He was also asked about the general
assistance workshop that had been planned if enough interest was shown. One person showed up and another
called. This was an insufficient
number to hold the workshop.
Steve Bennett has been in touch with John
Carver regarding the earthen dam.
Attorney Carver has been in touch with Dana Murch and has received more
information.
TOWN OFFICIERS:
Jay Guber discussed several permits.
1. Shawn
Raven of 205 Raven RD for a house.
He is now living in a trailer.
Once he is living in the house, the trailer will have to be moved. He also needs the plumber to sign off on
the plumbing.
2. Timber
harvest requested by Donald Haggar on Greeley RD. He has seventy-five acres and
is harvesting fifty-five of them.
A discussion followed related to harvesting
timber. Jay thought that if it were
over eight acres that was being harvested, it would require a permit. Wilson Hess thought it was five;
however, this may be related to clear cutting. In some cases he thinks that if it is
clear-cutting a forester needs to be consulted. If the wood is for sale you need
to get a permit.
Wilson Hess had recently talked with a
resident who expressed praise for all the work Jay Guber has done for the town.
TOWN BOARDS:
ROAD COMMITTEE
Dave Bennett and Jon Willette have been
working on the Town trucks. Some problems have arisen related to truck #7 and
the bed chain. In putting this on
they found that it was too short.
So another length of chain has been ordered along with some other
equipment. Also the sand spreader was worked on.
Howard Fairfield came out and went over the
equipment. He wasn’t very committed
on the dustpan, the angle plow, and on #7 truck, the 8-inch cutting edge should
not be used. There is a need to go
back to a single edge on that plow.
He learned a lot of helpful information from him.
Also truck #7 the differential took one and
a half quarts of gear oil. .
Frank Morello has been contacted. There is a question where the Town line
is. Montville had recently done
some grading. Dave Bennett
felt that ditching at the crown of the hill down to the culvert would be
beneficial.
Dave Bennett attended the Dig Safe
workshop. In the future there will
be a $500 fine if a cable is cut by heavy-duty equipment. If a spade cuts the cable there is no
fine. He asked about telephone
cable in the ditch and if the town had the right to ask the telephone company to
move the cable. He was told that
the Town had that right.
Ditching will begin Thursday. Herb Abbott and Clint Spaulding will do
this. Jon Willette will be asked if
he wants to watch the DigSafe lines.
Town house RD needs work. Estimates are needed. If
6inches of gravel is needed it comes to $6000 plus. This would take most if not all the
money in the summer road account. There are other roads that need to be
considered.
Rollins Rd. needs to be taken care of by
the Front-end loader.
Whalen Wolph has been doing some work up at
Bo Seleck’s. Dave Bennett should
touch bases with him.
.
An application has been worked up for
trucks drivers. There are more than
five people who have shown interest.
They need to be contacted to fill out an application and learn when they
would be available. A
question was brought up as to how many hours they can drive. Wilson Hess felt that we might not
necessarily need to have four men as Steve Bennett suggested, maybe only
two.
It is possible to have an early storm and
we need to be ready for it. There
was a discussion regarding this.
Wilson Hess felt that informally potential drivers should be asked if
they would be available to plow.
Also it is desirable to have a wingman particularly at night.
The committee will get together and discuss
who will make the decision regarding calling out drivers to plow according to
Dave Bennett.
Cutting edges need to be put on the
trucks. The shoes were worn
down. They are expensive to make,
so Dave will make one up.
COMPRHENSIVE PLANNING
BOARD;
Steve Bennett asked if Bill Pickford had
attended any meetings. Sallyann
Hadyniak stated that he had attended only one. Theresa Abbott had called him numerous
times regarding meetings and he never showed up. His name will not be listed as a member
of the board.
FINANCIAL
WARRANTS:
The following warrants were signed:
Payroll, $1,536.25
Accounts payable, $1,286.96
OPEN SESSION:
Dave Bennett had some questions related to
the pay scale and also what if you were using your own tools. Wilson Hess informed him, that there was
a pay schedule in the office. If
using your own tools it should be a rental fee instead of
wages.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:10
p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Marion Bowers
MINUTES: SELECTMEN’S MEETING
September 28, 2004
Selectmen present:
Steve Bennett and Wilson Hess.
Steve Cross was absent because of medical problems.
Also present:
Theressa Abbott, Thelma Ledden, Betty Sienkiewicz, Audrey Williams, Jon
Willette, Dave Bennett, Sallyann Hadyniak, Pete Bowers, Jay Guber, and Marion
Bowers.
Steve Bennett
called the meeting to order at 6 p.m.
Minutes of the
last meeting were read and approved after the following corrections and
additions.
1.
1.
1. There was
a selectmen’s meeting on September 7th. This was not with Dr. Lee.
The date for the meeting with him has been rescheduled.
2. 2.
2. Wilson
Hess did not use a check made errorously out to the Kennebec Valley Mental
Health. It was returned to the
town. He paid the registration fee of $20.00 himself for attending the KVOG
annual meeting.
3. 3.
3. Spelling errors: Puleski referendum
should be Palesky.
John Donner, should be
Downer
Pete Bowes, should be
Bowers
4. 4.
4. The last
statement that Steve Bennett made related to gravel, should read: We were billed
extra for $2,000 for tractor use and labor. This is one reason why Steve Bennett
doesn’t want to get it from Denis Jones.
5. 5.
5. The last
part of the statement related to Public Works Committee should
read:
Mr. Bennett stated that it was easy and
unanimous, but Mr. Hess disagreed with him but
under duress agreed to saying it was unanimous and easy.
6. 6.
6. Warrants
paid should be:
a.
a.
a.
Payroll $668.51
b. b.
b. Accounts
payable: $72,187.69. This includes
a 2nd payment on the paving loan.
7. 7.
7. A Windows
based system, TRIO software, will be installed on the computer.
CORRESPONDANCE:
1.
1.
1. An
invitation to an informational informal meeting to discuss the Waldo County
Technical referendum was received.
Steve Bennett may go.
2. 2.
2. An
invitation to an on-line workshop discussing a variety of subjects related to
safety.
3. 3.
3. Letter to
Historical Society, care of Lorraine Overlock, stating that they had been
granted $1,124 to frame a map of Waldo County from around 1800’s.
4. 4.
4. A letter
related to Worker’s Comp renewal has also arrived. Steve Bennett and Cindy have done
some of the work related to this renewal.
Of interest was an audited payroll for the
year 2003 of $82,000 and an estimated payroll for $68,000 for 2004 from MMA
related to workers comp. There was some discussion about the correctness of
this. Steve Bennett will look into this. It appears to be off by about
$14,000.
SELECTMEN’S
REPORTS:
STEVE BENNETT
Steve Bennett reported on the Freedom Town
Park and the unveiling and dedication of the Red Mitchell monument. It was a good day and everything went
quite well.
The Park is still a work in progress. On
Saturday, a group consisting of Jay Guber, Steve Bennett and Clayton Larrabbee
got together and agreed that another block of trees need to be removed to create
more of an open area. Jeff
Holmes will cut the trees in that area and remove the firewood. There will be an area that will need to
be filled in. Dave Bennett knew of fill behind the cemetery which could be used
instead of trucking it from a greater distance. Jon Willette spoke up about the
brush or limbs from the trees and wanted to know what would be done with
them. They can’t be hauled off to
another area. They will be chipped
and buried at the site.
The TRIO group was in the town office today
to install the program. This is a
Windows based program and it will be on all three
computers.
Also we now have DSL, which makes for a
speedier e-mail system.
WILSON HESS
Wilson Hess stated that a message he had
received from Clint Spaulding saying that the road grading had been
completed.
The Road Committee met last week for a
meeting, which became a long meeting.
He attended a meeting at KVCOG and sat
beside the director of the revolving loan that Jay Guber had mentioned in the
past. The revolving loan fund money
is not lent to the town, but it is for the creation of jobs in the
town.
Wilson Hess also thanked Jay Guber for
taking the paper work from Al Hubbard last week.
He also wanted to be sure that a sign be
posted related to gravel for discontinued abandoned roads.
Next week the commitment book should be
here next week and needs to be signed.
The real estate is done. The
personal property remains to be done.
Cindy has entered one-third of the real estate taxes on the
computer.
Also there will be new stanchions at the
polls. This is a project that Cindy
and Jon will do. Cindy the painting
and Jon the welding.
TOWN OFFICERS:
JAY GUBER
Jay has investigated a request by Al
Hubbard, Sr. for a building permit for a wheelchair ramp. He has been in touch with numerous
individuals from the State and finally spoke with an individual at the legal
department of the DOT in Rockland.
The State has jurisdiction and there is a mandated setback from the
road. The breezeway, in which they
were going to attach the ramp to, is too close the road. There needs to be a thirty-three foot
set back from the centerline of the road.
Therefore, no building permit could be given. The Hubbard’s have been notified.
A building permit was issued to Elizabeth
Soisson for a hunting camp on the Cellar Kitchen Rd.
Earl Webber is here and applying for a
house at 465 Greeley RD.
ROAD COMMITTEE:
Steve Bennett stated that the road
committee met last week and decided to appoint Dave Bennett as
chairperson.
DAVE BENNETT
Clint Spaulding told him the grading was
all done. They have done the Smithton Rd, Raven Rd. Mitchell Rd. Town house Rd,
which did not grade well. The Mitchell Rd will need gravel in some areas. The Town House Rd would need six to
eight inches of gravel. Clint will
get some estimates for gravel and rolling from the Lee Brothers. Rollins Rd
would also get some gravel from the Lee Brothers.
Dave Bennett has been in touch with the
State DOT and they will help him set up a plan for continued maintenance. He has also plans to contact the State
Engineering and get them involved.
They will also give him a basic knowledge of road maintenance. There is a possibility of funding from
the State.
Steve Bennett inquired how long the Lee
Brothers had spent grading and the answer was about a day and a
half.
Herb Abbott and Clint Spaulding start
ditching the Burnham Hill Rd. tomorrow.
Jon Willette had marked the area.
Dave mentioned that there was fill behind
the cemetery. Jon Willette asked
for some of it, if no one else had need of it. Wilson Hess suggested the fill could be
put at the old dumpsite.
Telephone wires are placed down the center
of many roads, which creates problems
Jon Willette voiced the need for a culvert
at the end of Town House Rd and the North Palermo Rd.
The solution at Bo Seleck’s is to open up
and ditch the area down to the Keller’s. There may be trees that will have to be
removed. Wilson Hess asked that the Road Crew be cognizant of areas that are
private property.
Jon Willette and Dave Bennett have started
maintenance of the trucks. Sounds like they were in desperate need of care.
The DigSafe Workshop is tomorrow and will
be attended by both Dave Bennett and Jon Willette.
Wilson Hess reminded Dave that he needed to
speak with several people related to road problems.
1.
1.
1.
Frank Morello on Goosepecker Ridge Rd regarding his problem. Wilson Hess has put a yellow flag at the
Town line.
2.
2.
2. Cy Reynolds on the Steven Rd has a
problem with washouts. This has been going on for a long time.
Steve Bennett wondered about the two
piles of gravel on the Rollins Rd.
Wilson had spoken with Roland Robataille and he had moved the gravel with
his equipment. There is a
possibility that he has put a culvert in.
Audrey Williams spoke up about the plugged
culvert in front of her house. She
stated that it was worse after it had been worked on
previously.
Wilson Hess asked if Clint Spaulding has
mentioned to Dave about a culvert on Ayer Ridge. The answer was no.
Dave Bennett would like to get the group
together on a formal basis. Wilson Hess felt that it would be beneficial to the
Town, but it will be a real challenge.
Gill Williams should be included in these meetings.
Steve Bennett has stated that we need to
have a special Town Meeting related to the recommendation of the Road Committee
to appoint a Road Commissioner. An
informational hearing had previously been set for Oct 19th but a
seven-day notice is required. A thirty -five day notice is required if it were
to go on the November ballot. This would make it too late to put on the November
ballot. He made a motion to
postpone the meeting on Oct 19th. This was seconded and approved. Other articles may appear on the special
Town Warrant as well, such as the Town Garage.
Truck driver applications will become
available soon. There will be a
list of requirements such as a CDL, drug testing, background check, references,
and also insurance company information and drivers license
record.
Steve Bennett said that the road
commissioner’s job description is in the process of being completed. Hopefully the Town will vote to make
this an appointed position. The
audience was asked their opinion on how they felt as to whether the position
should be an appointed or not. The
majority of those present appeared to be in favor of it being an appointed
position versus an elected one. Steve Bennett pointed out that there has been a
tradition of small towns electing officials. What we need is for the job to be done
and done correctly.
Audrey Williams felt the name of the job
should be different such as Public Works Director, not Road Commissioner,
however Steve Bennett was informed by the MMA that a position of Road
Commissioner is a mandated position.
Wilson Hess felt that there was 1. A clear line of authority to the
Selectmen versus other possible tension to an elected position and 2. The
Selectmen have the ability to fire the Commissioner if necessary.
Dave Bennett will have someone from Howard
Fairfield coming out to identify equipment, and give him a parts list at the
Garage. An inventory will be
made. He does need a file cabinet
and Sallyann Hadyniak offered him one she has.
FINANCIAL
WARRANTS:
The following warrants were
signed:
Payroll:
$1,790.43
Accounts payable:
$31,116.05
Included in these were bills related to the school of
$24,553
PERC, Sullivan’s and Yankee.
These checks have been cut, but the school
check will be held for a
week or two.
OPEN
SESSION:
Dave Bennett was interested in knowing about the pay scale. There is a
paper in the office
that states what the pay scale is for each position.
Sallyann Hadyniak wondered about why the stop sign was in the position it
was.
Wilson Hess stated that the stop sign is supposed to be on the right
side.
There is a need related to better interpersonal relationships in this
Town.
The Comprehensive Planning Committee has had 123 surveys returned.
Steve Bennett made a motion for the meeting to adjourn at 7:45
p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Marion Bowers
Minutes of the September
21, 2004 Selectmen’s Meeting
Those in attendance were
1st. Selectman Steve Bennett, 2nd Selectman Wilson Hess
and 3rd Selectman Steven Cross was absent due to
illness.
Also present were,
Theressa Abbott, Betty Sienkiewicz, Jon Willette, Albert Hubbard, Bo Selleck,
Peter Bowers, Thelma Ledden, Audrey Williams and Sallyann
Hadyniak.
1st. Selectman
Steve Bennett called the meeting to order at 6 p.m.
Corrections to the Minutes
of the Previous Meeting:
A.
A.
There wasn’t
a meeting on September 7 and Dr. Lee will be attending a meeting on October 7,
2004.
B.
B.
It depends if
we have 5 towns to participate in a Workshop on October 5th at
Freedom from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. related to applications for general
assistance.
C. Jon Willette
will attend a workshop on September 28th which is being given by
Digsafe.
Wilson Hess made a motion
to accept the corrections of the minutes and Steve Bennett second
it.
Correspondence:
A. A check was made from
the Town of Freedom to the Kennebec Valley mental health in the amount of
$20.00. It’s the registration fee
for the KVCOG annual meeting.
B. New wage for the state
of Maine is going to $6.35 effective October 1, 2004 and $6.50 effective October
1, 2005.
C. A notification that
there will be a meeting regarding solid waste, and Mr. Bennett suggested that it
be given to Theressa Abbott to be given to Herb Abbott.
D. A letter from the
Department of Conservation regarding tree growth. They want an update by October 11, 2004
and Mr. Hess said it wouldn’t be a problem.
E. There will be a work
shop by KVCOG on September 30th. There will be two 1 Hour sessions in the
morning and in the evening. The
purpose of it is for those towns that are interested to come and they will walk
us through how to do a worksheet so that we will be able to ascertain what the
impact would be on our town if the Puleski referendum were to pass. Every town with over a 10 mill tax rate
will be impacted. Our mill rate was
12 ½ last year and Waterville is 25.
Freedom is 60th in the state and there are 59 lower then
ours. Mr. Hess stated that he thinks our mill rate will be over 13 but
will be similar to last year.
Mr. Hubbard was told to
see Mr. Guber regarding a permit for a porch to be built. He was given permission last year but
this year they want written permission because he is probably too close to the
state road. Steve Bennett called
Jay Guber; he wasn’t there but left a message. Mr. Guber must act on this.
Mr. Selleck held a
discussion with Jon Willette regarding the wash out by the culvert on Smithtown
road. Wires are crossing Mr.
Selleck’s driveway and Digsafe was called in. Jon will take care of this
problem.
Meeting was called back to
order after individual discussions by Mr. Bennett.
A. He thanked Jon
Willette for going down to the boat landing and cleaning out all the brush and
hauled it all out to get rid of it.
The rocks were moved and in place at the Freedom Rec. Park in preparation
for the Mitchell monument. There is
plenty of room to turn a vehicle around.
It will be incorporated around the ledge and worked in somehow. Saturday at noon the dedication of the
monument will take place.
Selectmen’s
Reports:
Wilson
Hess
A.
A.
Dave Bennett
and Jon Willette will attend a Digsafe Workshop on Wednesday, September 29, 2004
from 8 a.m. till 12 noon. It’s the
Maine Public Utility Commission
Town
Officers:
Nothing
reported
Town
Boards:
A.
A.
Comprehensive
Planning Committee will write up a report and wants to get together with the
Planning Board. Approximately 120
survey letters were returned. They will be tallied up.
B.
B.
Tony Neves
moved to Albion and cannot be on the Planning Board.
Mr. Bennett stated that
maybe sometime next year we will create a Public Works Committee. There are a group of volunteers and they
were asked to come up with ideas about the grading etc. Mr. Bennett and Dave drove around the
roads and found two big piles of gravel sitting on Rollins Road which need to be
moved. They asked the Public Works
committee to find the best deal for a grader and gravel.
A.
A.
Theressa
Abbott reported that Barry Tweedy will get the grader over this weekend and
start Tuesday morning of next week.
B.
B.
Mr. Tweedy
get $60.00-$65.00 an hour for the grader.
C.
C.
He is not
particular about other people running it, but it was o.k. for Herb Abbott to
do.
D.
D.
Jon Willette
has no problem with that but would like to be able to sit with Herb and learn
how to work it.
E.
E.
Herb Abbott
is confident to use Mr. Tweedy’s grader.
F.
F.
Mr. Bennett
question if Mr. Abbott has any idea as to how long it will take to use the
grader on Smithton and Mitchell Road, etc.
There are ditch problems and some culverts to be cleaned
out.
G.
G.
On Tuesday,
Dave Bennett and Jon Willette will not be able to be there for they have to be
in Augusta to take care of the two $500.00 each fines.
H.
H.
Mr. Bennett
questioned if they found out any information regarding gravel and Jon Willette
responded by saying he has not had any meetings with Clint Spaulding, Dave
Bennett or any of the public works committee. Jon was with Digsafe two days in a row
and marked where to put the Beaver Ridge sign, went on Smithton Rd. and marked
the road from the tar up to the deer farm. (John Donner) It’s all marked and Jon knows where all
the wires are. Ayer Ridge, no
buried cable so all is set with that culvert up there but there isn’t any
backhoe. Burnham Hill from Greeley
Rd. to Montville line had Digsafe mark the road. There are 5 wires from the Greeley Rd.
on the right hand side going down to Mrs. Spaulding’s. On the left the wire crosses the
road before Mrs. Spaulding’s and is down approximately 2 feet to a foot. A grader cannot be used because the side
is too high and hand work must be done and hope the wire does not get cut. This is all telephone wiring. Jon suggested that all wires be put on
poles. One can refuse to have phone
lines in the ground. Some wires
should be taken out.
I.
I.
Steve Bennett
stated that he will not support getting the gravel from where it was purchased
from this past summer due to it being in place and it wasn’t. We were billed extra for$2,000.00 for
tractor use and kids labor.
J.
J.
The Public
Works Department is leaning toward getting the gravel from Roger
Littlefield.
K.
K.
Jon spoke of
the problem that Bo Selleck is having.
It all stems from Erna Keller’s culvert! He needs to dig down the side of the
road and it will entail a backhoe.
L.
L.
Mr. Bennett
said for the guys to figure out the best way to fix it and then fix
it.
M.
M.
There is an
issue with this group that they aren’t getting together as a
group.
N.
N.
Mr. Hess
stated that there are groups of two getting together and Jon said he was a group
of one. Mr. Hess wants the guys to
get together and put someone in charge.
The group should get together this Thursday night at 6 p.m. for the sole
purpose for selecting someone to be their chair-person.
O.
O.
Peter Bowes
suggested that Wilson Hess appoint someone but Mr. Hess disagreed.
P.
P.
Steve Bennett
will call Dave Bennett and Warren Spaulding, Wilson Hess will call Herb Abbott,
Jon Willette, Clint Spaulding and Jay Guber.
New
Business:
A. There will be a Public
Hearing on Tuesday, October 19, 2004 at 6 p.m. pending the availability of the
Grange Hall to have a public hearing regarding the issue to create a Public
Works Director replacing a Road Commissioner. The Public Works Director will be given
a job description for which there isn’t any now. The Public Works Director will be
appointed by the Selectmen as opposed to being elected.
A. Just for the record,
this recommendation came from this Public Works Committee (6 people) Jon
Willette, Warren Spaulding, Jay Guber,
Dave Bennett, Clint Spaulding, Herb Abbott, Wilson Hess and Steve
Bennett. Mr. Bennett stated that it was easy and unanimous, but Mr. Hess
disagreed with him by saying it was not unanimous or easy.
B. It was decided that the
language be changed to, instead of creating, replacing, the position of Road
Commissioner with,the position of the Public Works
Director.
C. Steve Bennett will
check the wording on the ballot and the time limit to have it put as a question
on the referendum in November.
C.
C.
Mr. Bennett
will reword #1 to look more like on the ballot. Postcards should be sent out about a
week to 10 days before. Cindy will
check with the Grange to see if that night is o.k.
D.
D.
Mr. Hess
suggested that under job positions #5 should read, Making sure that all members
of the work force are appropriately licensed, have the necessary certifications
and are compliant with all applicable state and federal
regulations.
E.
E.
#8 preparing
the annual budget for the Public Works Department under the supervision of the
Selectmen as required by law.
F.
F.
#6 The Public Works Director will be
responsible for overseeing the care of and maintenance of all town owned
buildings.
ROADS:
Wilson Hess later in the
year would like to coordinate a purchase of gravel from Roger Littlefield at
$4.00 a yard. Wilson made a motion
to post around town that good
quality crushed gravel can be purchased through the town at $4.00 a yard, but it
will be the responsibility of the buyer to make arrangements for the gravel to
be hauled and spread. It is not the
town’s responsibility. This recommendation will be for the benefit for the
families that live on discontinued or abandoned roads. If you are interested, call the town
office. Steve Bennett second the
motion and it was carried. Notices
will be posted around town and Sallyann would put it in the
column.
NEW
BUSINESS:
Warrants:
A
deposit of $1,000.00 plus was made today.
$ 780.55 was the employees etc.
total
$71,115.56 was the
2nd payment on the paving loan
$72.187.69
Total
A
Windows system was installed on the computer system. A new computer is going to be purchased
for Cindy.
Jon Willette suggested
that the hard drive of the old computer be destroyed! It is the safest thing to do. If a new ready made computer is to be
purchased, make sure a disk comes with it.
Jon feels it’s better to have one built.
Jon said he would put up
the signs on Bryant Road, Hawkins Lane and High Street (2) He will change the
Beaver Ridge Road sign and will not put a stop sign there.
Wilson Hess asked Thelma
Ledden if she wanted a stop sign and she said she didn’t care and then said yes,
and Steve Bennett asked Sallyann Hadyniak and she said no. A sign is not going to make any
difference. Plus who would be there
to enforce it. Save the town
money. Those that don’t want to
stop before pulling out on Greeley Road will be putting themselves in
jeopardy. Whether there is a sign
or not, the town is not liable in case of an accident.
Steve Bennett made a
motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:34 and second by Wilson Hess. Motion made and
carried.
Respectfully
submitted,
Sallyann
Hadyniak
MINUTES OF THE SEPTEMBER 14, 2004 SELECTMEN’S
MEETING
Selectmen present:
Steve Bennett and Wilson Hess.
Also present:
Clint Spaulding, Jon Willette, Theressa Abbott, Betty Sinekiewicz, Thelma
Ledden, Audrey Williams, Dave Bennett, Bruce Peterson, Dottie Chase, Pete and
Marion Bowers.
Steve
Bennett called the meeting to order at 6 p.m.
Minutes of the
last meeting were read and accepted with one correction in
spelling.
CORRESPONDANCE:
Rabies clinic will
be held on Oct30th. The animals,
dogs or cats, must be in a carrier or on a leash. The cost is $10 per animal.
Dr. Lee was
not present on September 7th for a meeting.
A surety
bond for $300,000 expires on August 31, 2005.
Minutes from
the Unity Recycling Center were received.
Steve
Bennett has received two general assistance applications this week. Both of which were denied. They are very
time-consuming. All three selectmen
need to be in on the final decision.
There is a general assistance book which
can be helpful.
Workshop October
5th at Freedom from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. related to applications for
general assistance.
“Maine Townsman”
has been received.
A letter from a
woman from Vermont has been received, inquiring about people in Northern New
England with the nickname of “Tiny.”
She is writing a book and finds these people are unusual characters.
SELECTMEN’S REPORTS:
Wilson Hess has
continued to work on the assessing.
Cindy should have the information by the end of the
week.
TOWN BOARDS:
There was no
official representative from any board present.
Steve Bennett
spoke about the meeting related to the roads. It was a two-hour meeting with six
interested individuals. The pros
and cons of the sand pile were discussed.
Everyone agreed that it should not stay at its present site. The majority
felt that it should be located on Mitchell Road, but exactly where remains a
question.
Two major issues
discussed were:
1.
1.
1. Need to
find an economical way to build a salt and sand facility and a town
garage.
2. 2.
2. What to do
about the position of road commissioner.
The Selectmen are acting road commissioners until March town
meeting. The roadwork is to be done
by members of the group that came to the meeting.
Steve Bennett stated the need for a job
description for the Public Works Director.
It should be a defined, as well as an appointed position, open to the
people in town as well as to others. It will be a salaried position, with the
salary set at the March Town Meeting.
A ballot for the position will be needed.
There will be an informational meeting on
the Public Works-Road Commissioner position on October 19th
Wilson Hess feels that a postcard
notification should be sent.
Steve Bennett agreed. A motion was made,
seconded and approved to do this.
An advertisement needs to be done for
drivers.
The roads currently need grader work
according to Steve Bennett. Bill
Terry was contacted for a grader and an operator, but was unable to do this.
Clint Spaulding stated that Barry Tweedie
said that his grader was available next week on Tuesday. Clint will get back in
touch with him for us to use the grader. The Lee Brothers stated they wouldn’t
turn the work down. If they do the
work, they supply the grader and operator.
Clint also spoke about the Mitchell Rd.
stating that it needs grading before gravel.
Steve Bennett felt that others need to be
present if Herb Abbott does the grading.
Wilson Hess felt that this would be a good
learning experience for those with him.
Wilson Hess mentioned the need for a crew
chief or point person related to the roadwork. Herb Abbott was suggested. All who work
will be compensated according to the pay scale and the work they are doing. They will need to put in a time
card. They may end up doing several
different jobs.
Clint Spaulding stated that the holes need
to be cut and graded before they receive gravel. Also Burnham Hill Rd. hasn’t been taken care of and
needs to be ditched.
Steve Bennett spoke about the need for
gravel and how much we would need.
Clint Spaulding said that Roger Littlefield has gravel for $4.00 per
yard. Wilson Hess suggested that
Clint could haul the gravel. “Big
Red” is good only for light duty. Herb Abbott would have a good idea on how much
gravel we would need.
The Selectmen are to be kept informed of
the work done on a weekly basis.
There is other work that needs to be done
but money is a factor and these areas will have to wait. These include the
culvert on Ayer Ridge Rd. and an
area on Goosepecker Ridge Rd. near
Frank Furlough’s.
CEMETERY:
All the work is done except for the Gould-Fuller Cemetery according to
Theressa
Abbott.
The Abbott Cemetery is taken care of by
Ronnie Ladd. There are quite a few cemeteries in Freedom. A few of them are the Danforth on
Hardwood Lane, Penney on Mitchell
Rd, Briggs also known as Raven Cemetery, Abbott, Cummings, Bradstreet Cemetery
and Hutchins Cemetery.
Wilson Hess mentioned that Tom Leveque
would be helpful in repairing some of the stone.
Steve Bennett thanked Theresa, Betty and
Jon for their work in improving the appearance of the cemeteries.
Wilson Hess commented on the volunteerism
that has made this project work.
Not much money was spent.
COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING
BOARD:
Theressa Abbott stated that they had about one hundred returns back,
which is about 30% of those sent out. September 15th is the deadline.
RECREATION BOARD:
Bruce Peterson will begin working on the
ledge tomorrow and doing the preparation work for the Red Mitchell
monument. He has to set the base
and it will be ready for the 25th. He will draw a circle where the monument
is to go.
An area behind the church, marked by large
rocks, will have to have the rocks moved so that the church parking area can be
enlarged by ten to fifteen feet.
This would make it easier for people to get out of the parking area. Jon Willette and Dave Bennett will work
on this.
The monument will be covered up until the
unveiling.
He also stated that Brooks Monument Inc
needs a check. There has been some kind of a mix up related to the check.
Steve Bennett said that the Recreation
Committee has only spent $130 so far on renovations at the Freedom Field.
FINANCIAL
WARRANTS:
Warrants were signed.
Payroll: $1,182.21
Accounts payable: $244.24
OPEN SESSION:
Audrey Williams complained about the ATV’s, fast motorcycles, uncovered
and fast trucks on Pleasant St. She
was advised to notify the sheriff.
Jon Willette has installed the stop signs making Pleasant St. a four-way
stop
Pete Bowers felt that there was no need for
a four-way stop on Pleasant St. He
was advised that it was helpful in slowing down the traffic. Wilson Hess asked
Jon to restore the stop signs to their former position.
Thelma Ledden asked if the position of
Beaver Ridge Rd sign could be changed.
Jon Willette will check with DigSafe regarding this.
DigSafe has a workshop on September 28th. Someone from the Town needs to attend
otherwise we are looking at two fines.
Jon Willette would like to do this.
Jon Willette has taken care of the brush at the Town garage.
Bo Seleck has asked many times for someone to come to inspect the problem
he is
having related to the road and the run-off of water. Dave Bennett was asked to contact him.
Steve
Bennett spoke about waste wood that was hauled out of the spillway and needs to
be removed and chipped if possible.
The area needs to be cleaned up. Jon Willette will look into this.
The meeting
adjourned at 7:29 p.m.
Respectfully
submitted,
Marion Bowers
Selectmen’s Meeting
Minutes, September 7, 2004
Selectmen
present: Steve Bennett and Wilson Hess
Also present:
Betty Sinkiewicz, Thressa Abbott, Clint Spaulding, Pete Bowers, Jim Waterman and
Marion Bowers.
Steve Bennett
opened the meeting at 5:58.
Minutes were
read and approved after corrections were made.
Page 2: Under #4, the second sentence will read; big rocks will make a
line from the end of the
basketball court to the tree line behind the 3rd base dug out.
Page 2: The second sentence should read: She has requested that any
request for
funds should be put in writing to her. Delete “allowing her five days to do the
Report.” The next sentence should have “group to be paid” also
deleted.
A second item she requested was regarding financial reports. She would
like this done in writing and her response should be within five days.
Page 3: The
first sentence should read: MMA’s Risk Management Agency has sent our new risk
policy.
CORRESPONDANCE:
DEP has sent a letter regarding changes in their recycling program
beginning January 1, 2006. This
change involves TV’s and monitors.
MMA annual
business meeting is October 6.
By-law changes will be the topic.
Palesky tax cap
initiative will be discussed September 30th with a question and
answer session included. This will be at the Waldo Town Office.
A bulletin from
“Trees on Main Street” has been received
Seventh annual
seminar on Maine Safety and Health Conference, September
28th-30th.
Workshop:
Public Health Conference, December 7th.
Water
certification review class, October 13th
Wilson Hess
spoke about the Smithton Cemetery CD.
Lorraine Overlock had been interested in knowing how much money they had
to spend. There are two CD’s. One is for $5000 principle balance and
the other one is for $3,200.00 principle
balance.
The $3,200.00
CD expires in September. Only the
earnings can be spent from this account.
There is some question on what it earns
percentage-wise
Sand and Salt Facility were not discussed.
Steve Bennett wondered how many people attended the special town meeting.
He
was told it was 43. The
average for the annual town meeting is 50.
He felt the
meeting went pretty well.
Steve had some
questions regarding changes in ordinances that were passed at the Special Town
Meeting. Wilson Hess stated that he
is going to ask Cindy to go back for ten to fifteen years looking for
ordinances. Cindy, as clerk, is responsible for reporting minutes of the Town
Meeting. The few ordinances that we have may need to be updated. Ordinances from
the Planning Board; they are responsible for drawing those up. Steve Bennett
agreed that all the ordinances need to be compiled together.
Steve Bennett
complimented Wilson Hess on all the work he has done regarding taxes. He expressed his appreciation.
Wilson Hess
talked about the classification of houses. There is an 80% valuation that was
used. He has been using the 100%
valuation and reclassifying the houses, then if they don’t conform to the
guidelines they are moved up or down.
Steve Bennett
spoke about the inaccuracies of assessing.
What ever is done, it should be accurate. Regarding trailers some were
assessed at 80% last year and others were not.
Wilson Hess has
tried to be consistent on why he has made the assessment that he has, and
documented this.
Hopefully by
the middle of the month taxes should be ready.
Dave Bennett
had called Steve Bennett stating that the Smithton and Mitchell Rd. need to be
graded again. There was a question
of adding more gravel.
Clint Spaulding
spoke about the condition of the Rollins Rd. The two foot deep ditch needs raff
riff. The water needs to be slowed
down. Currently it is washing out
the side of the road.
Wilson Hess
felt that all the dirt roads received gravel this summer with the exception of
Rollins and Raven Rd that were not done completely because of
FEMA.
According to
Wilson Hess there is $10,000 left in the summer roads
account.
Bo Seleck is
still waiting for someone to see him regarding the Smithton Rd.
All dirt roads
should be done, graded, before winter according to Wilson Hess. A grader would need to be used. In the
past, Lee Brothers and Ed Picard or someone he has chosen, have graded the
roads. There was a discussion
related to the possibilities of who had the equipment the Town could use. It was
felt that Herb Abbott would be willing to run the grader.
The selectmen
felt the need to have a meeting with people who could work on the roads. This will be on Thursday or Friday
PM.
Steve Bennett
has been in touch with Attorney John Carver regarding the earthen dam and
requested him to do some research regarding this. He has the list of names that Dana Murch
provided.
Wilson Hess
felt that a cover letter to the Emergency Management Plan stating that the town
has voted to move in the direction of asserting its ownership, therefore,
consider this to be effective.
Steve Bennett
made a motion that Wilson Hess drafts a cover letter to go with the emergency
action plan so that it can be signed and put into effect. This was seconded and
approved.
Freedom Town
Park was worked on Monday according to Steve Bennett. Many improvements have been made by Dave
Bennett, Erna Keller, Jeff Holmes and others. Clayton Larrabbee was there with
his bulldozer and excavator and did a lot of work. He donated this. Steve Bennett will send him a letter of
appreciation
There will be
another workday this coming Saturday.
This will be to rake, seed and mulch the area. There are still some rocks
to be moved. Bruce Peterson is supposed to have the monument ready to set. A roller would be helpful if any one has
one.
Wilson Hess
wanted to know what is going to be done with the brush that has been taken to
the town garage. Two trucks loads were taken down to the area. It is possible
the fire department could burn it.
Steve Bennett
had spoken with Lorraine Overlock regarding the old Freedom Academy lot. The foundation, hole in the wall and the
well are considered an unacceptable risk by the MMA. Part of the action plan requires that
something be done about this. He asked Lorraine if she would communicate with
different groups, the Grange, Historical Society, and Freedom Academy Alumnae
and to offer some suggestions about what we can do about the bank and the
foundation and the steps. Also how a more appropriate tribute to the history of
the Freedom Academy might be done. She will get back to the Selectmen with some
ideas to improve the area.
The Town Risk
Action Management Plan by the MMA was discussed.
Steve Bennett
spoke about the chimney at the Town House as a risk. According to Jim Waterman this was
typical of the era and it is a suspended chimney recognized by the Maine
Historical Society. As to safety,
he suggested that they cordon off the area, an 8 X 10 square feet under the
chimney with danger tape to keep people out. Also post warning signs, such as falling
material. This would be done until
it an engineer can inspect it.
Jim Waterman
also reported on the work Tom Levesque had done on the Town House. The funds for this came from a grant
from the MBNA. The floor and roof
need to be done.
Garage doors
for the garage are hand operated.
All the trucks
have cell phones.
Other requests
will have to wait until we have a plan in place for the
garage.
Wilson Hess
noted that there are two trucks that need to be washed since there is salt
present. One looks pretty
good. Clayton Spaulding said that
you need to take the beds off the trucks and paint the frame to get rid of all
the salt. He washed one the best he
could. Dave Bennett had taken the
controls apart because of the salt and rust problem according to Steve Bennett.
This discussion will continue on Thursday or Friday.
Nancy Bailey of
the Planning Board was asked to work on a project related to discontinued roads.
Steve Cross had all the warrants that had any mention of a road being
discontinued. She will research the
state law. The status of roads will
also be involved and make a map with the status of the road on it.
OLD
BUSINESS:
Road
Commissioner discussion: the
Selectmen will not anyone as road commissioner before November 1. The Selectmen
will act as road commission for the time being.
Warren
Spaulding will help if he is available.
Clint Spaulding felt that this position requires someone who has a class
B license. Dave Bennett has applied
for this license.
Steve Bennett
feels that a multi-task person would be good, not just a supervisory position.
Clint Spaulding
felt that Herb Abbott could do the job.
There was a
long discussion about the job of road commissioner.
Earlier this
summer there was a request for interested parties to meet and discuss the
situation. Dave Bennett, Herb
Abbott, Jay Guber and Warren Spaulding also volunteered.
Clint Spaulding
felt that if there were an election there would be more candidates vying for the
position.
November
2nd is the earliest date for a special election for road
commissioner.
Herb Abbott
should also be considered.
Wilson Hess
wants to hear more about the road commissioner position or a crew and the
Selectmen being road commissioner.
Steve Bennett
realizes there has been a lot of controversy related to this position and the
crew.
There will be a
meeting this Thursday or Friday for interested parties.
NEW
BUSINESS:
Municipal order
pursuant to 36 MRSA section 906 which relates to the oldest tax being paid first
was signed.
Waldo Co Budget
Committee needs a representative.
Wilson Hess was suggested.
Bill Terry was also suggested.
The Waldo
County Hazard Mitigation Plan was signed.
End of month
financial statements were gone over. They can’t be signed until they have been
reconciled with the checkbook.
On September 28 and 29 TRIO software will
be installed.
FINANCIAL
WARRANTS:
Warrants were signed.
Payroll: $2,475.56
Accounts payable: $2,043.33
OPEN
SESSION:
Steve Bennett called the MMA regarding one of the responsibilities of the
Selectmen. First of all you need to know where the
money is going and to ensure that the money is well
spent was the answer he received
Wilson Hess
stated that Hilary Fleming, deputy clerk, has agreed to take training to learn
the computer system.
Wilson Hess has
also accepted a position as director of KVCOG. This is a 3-year term. They are trying
to increase their dues by 2. 56%.
The Cemetery
Committee has plenty of money. Theresa Abbott brought up the fact that you fix
these cemeteries up and the roads are nearly impassable. If there is a veteran
buried in a cemetery it must be maintained according to state law. Steve Bennett suggested that Theressa
Abbott and Betty Sinekiewicz make some suggestions regarding the
cemeteries.
The stop sign
has also been restored at the top of the hill on Pleasant St. The one at the bottom of the hill has
disappeared. Jon Willette put the
signs up.
The meeting
adjourned at 8:25PM
Respectfully
submitted,
Marion
Bowers
MINUTES of the
SELECTMEN'S MEETING AUGUST 31, 2004 was cancelled
MINUTES of the
SELECTMEN’S MEETING, AUGUST 24, 2004
Selectmen present:
Steve Bennett and Wilson Hess.
Also present:
Betty Sienkiewicz, Jay Guber, Erna Keller, Pete Mattson, Jim Waterman, Pete and
Marion Bowers
Steve Bennett
opened the meeting at 6 p.m.
Minutes of the
last meeting were read and accepted as amended.
The sentence about the Homestein Act will be deleted.
Under correspondence it should have been Homestead
Exemption.
Page 3: Incorrect spelling of Farris, it should have been
Ferris.
Page 4: Article 8 relating to the Sand and Salt Shed; Wilson Hess will
bring specifics for the Article.
SELECTMEN’S
REPORT:
Wilson Hess has been working on assessing
and bookwork. He feels they are
making better progress. The more he
does the more comfortable he feels he becomes. Steve Bennett will help on the
commercial assessing. They are currently reconciling the measurements of the
properties with the former measurements.
It requires a lot of hours.
When looking at barns, they are using the barn schedules.
Wilson Hess feels that if they do thirty or
forty properties together, they could get a standard method down. It may take three or four hours to do
this.
Wilson Hess feels that he has found a lot
of older properties that were given a “B” or “C. No houses were given an “A”. A new house didn’t have any deductions
in the record.
Steve Bennett could work all day September
2nd with Wilson Hess.
Steve Bennett feels that we need a professional group to come in to do
this. The State has a program available through the Maine Revenue Service. This is what the woman in Monroe
uses.
Wilson Hess feels that some people would
feel this as an intrusion. So far
the assessments are pretty close to last years.
Last year about 50 people came in wanting
their homes revaluated which was more than last year. That is one of the reasons they decided
to assess all the properties.
Jay Guber spoke about the need of using the
same protocol for all the homes.
Last year Steve Cross felt so dissatisfied enough with the results that
he refused to sign the commitment book.
Wilson Hess would like to see taxes out by
Labor Day.
Steve Bennett
spoke about a workday for Saturday at the Town Recreational
Area.
Wed night Bruce Peterson, Kevin Keller,
Jeff Holmes, Pete Bowers and Steve Bennett, Warren Spaulding and Dave Bennett
viewed the area and decided about the necessary equipment that would be needed:
trucks and a back hoe. Anyone who
would like to pitch in is welcome.
What needs to be
done?
1.
The area of the old snack shop will be filled in. This will add to the parking
area.
2. 2.
Start working on Red’s
monument.
3. 3.
Water spigot. Trench will need to be dug
and line buried over to the snack shop.
4. 4.
Rearrange the rocks by
the basketball court. They are a safety hazard. Big rocks will make a line
from the end of the basketball court to the tree line behind the 3rd
base dug out. Cars will not be able
to get through. They will be placed
about 5’ apart.
MMA’s [Risk Management Agency] our insurer,
feels the wall should come down, but we are not doing this at present.
Jay Guber wondered if the DEP had approved
the delineation since wetlands are nearby.
Wilson Hess commented on the good job the
Recreational Committee is doing and all the volunteer work that is being done.
Steve Bennett
agreed.
CORRESPONDANCE:
The Historical Society would like to have $1,200.00 to do the work as
previously discussed last week. Jay
Guber felt that this should have gone out to bid if it were town money. Tom Levecque will be doing the work.
Some present felt it was the Historical Society’s money. There had been a
request made to know if there was enough money in the account.
Cindy Abbott has sent a letter, asking that
it be put in the minutes. She has
requested that any request for funds should be put in writing to her. In this
request she would like the name of the person, what committee the money is
coming from, a signature from the person on the committee, the amount and dated.
This should be here on Monday for a Tuesday Warrant. The Selectmen has endorsed
this.
The second request was regarding financial
reports. This request should also be in writing to Cindy and allow five days for
a response.
Steve Bennett made a motion that if any
committee has a request for funds out of a town account, a signed and dated
invoice or a request for funds for the amount of money requested be provided to
the town treasurer at least one day prior to the time the Warrants are
signed. This was seconded and
passed.
This came about as a result of a committee
asking Cindy for info on the cash flow one month ago. She again asked last week and still has
received nothing.
The system does need to be worked on. Erna Keller would like to see a monthly
statement.
Steve Bennett called the MMA; the only
reason to deny a request of any town committee, which is voted on at the town
meeting, is if we don’t have the money available.
Wilson Hess added that a financial
statement should be put into protocol for each department. He also added that
this would be something that the auditors would like to
see.
Steve Bennett and Wilson Hess both felt
that five days was too long a time to request a written report for their
committee. It should be done in
less time.
MMA, Risk Management Agency has sent our
new risk new policy. Old ones are
to be kept, not returned. The property casualty policy is up to date.
The workers comp policy is on the way.
A fuel tax refund of $ 366.06 from the
State has been received.
Workshop available in September 13th, 14th,
23rd for public works program.
Asphalt workshop
Better Road Survey
KVCOG dispatch. A letter was given to Wilson
Hess.
TOWN BOARDS:
Jay Guber spoke to Rich Baker of the
DEP. We can do any clean up we want
related to the pond. If trees and
earth were to be removed, we would need a permit by rule. Cost is probably
$50.00. Jay Guber had received
information from David Allen about speed limit signs going through the town.
This he left with the Selectmen. He
also mentioned the solar sign that Unity has related to speeding. This reminds people of how fast
they are going.
Jay Guber has been faxed all of the
permits needed except for the building permit from Greg Harding who has a
trailer off of Route 137.
Kim Holmes will be applying for a building
permit to add on to a building.
Also Jay Guber spoke about KVCAP and a
meeting on Sept 22nd.
The revolving loan with a low interest rate will be discussed. He gave the information to Wilson
Hess. Jay said he might also
attend.
Pete Mattson, a resident of Pleasant
Street, had spoken to Wilson Hess about the change in making Pleasant Street
two- way. He liked it when it was
one-way. He would like to see a 15
mph sign. Pete Bowers also spoke
about the basketball hoops that are right on the edge of the road by his
property. He also felt that
the stop sign was ridiculous at the bottom of the hill coming from the Town
office. It was felt that it would
help to slow the traffic down according to some present.
RECREATION COMMITTEE:
Erna Keller said that the unveiling
dedication of Red Mitchell’s monument would be on September
25th. Time is unsure,
but probably will be 12 noon. The
monies needed have been raised.
Steve Bennett said that Bruce Peterson was
going to plant a red maple tree. He
felt Red would have said rock maple or oak. Jay Guber said an apple tree would have
been to Red’s liking.
There are lots of Red stories. Ernie Keller has had calls about him all
over the county.
Reggie Mitchell, Red’s son sent pictures
and helped to write the inscription.
Jay Guber thanked the Comprehensive
Committee for their super work and also he gave a thank you to the
Selectmen.
OLD BUSINESS:
Warren Spaulding was agreeable to working
with Dave Bennett. He
would advice, but he wouldn’t take on the
job because of financial reasons.
He really would like to help, but was concerned if he got hurt or such it
would be a problem. Perhaps they
could give him a stipend was a suggestion by Wilson Hess. He suggested that they prepare a
document and put him to work.
Wilson Hess has not spoken to Denis Jones
yet about the billing,
Road Commissioner job description has not
been written yet.
Special Town
Meeting:
Discussion about several of the articles was
discussed.
The Special Town Meeting will be on Sept 1,
2004 at 7 p.m. at the Freedom Dirigo Grange
Waldo County Vocational School has a bond that needs to be signed. Wilson Hess and Steve Bennett signed
this.
Wilson Hess felt that there was grant money
for the fire department. A motion
was made to use the grant money for their renovations. This was seconded and
approved.
Theresa Abbott needed a 3-ring binder and
Steve Bennett has one for her.
FINANCIAL
WARRANTS:
Warrants were signed for the following:
Payroll $563.09
Accounts Payable $2,849.27
OPEN BUSINESS:
Shirley MacGovern, mother of six
youngsters, had been visiting on Smithton Rd at Larry Weiner’s camp. Later on she learned that one of the
town employees that had been working on the road was purportedly a sex
offender. She was very upset that
she had not been forewarned. Wilson
Hess informed her that Maine has a public access law which is available on the
Internet. The town in hiring cannot
discriminate. The employee has been an exemplary employee.
Pete Bowers wanted to know about the bill
received from Sullivan’s for the brown goods pick up done. According to Wilson, who had
investigated, the increased cost was because of the increased metal tonnage
going from 3 tons to 14 tons of material.
Meeting was adjourned at
8:40PM.
Respectfully
submitted,
Marion Bowers
MINUTES: SELECTMEN’S MEETING
AUGUST 17, 2004
Selectmen present: Steve Bennett,
Steve Cross, and Wilson Hess
Also present: Betty Sienkiewicz,
Thressa Abbott, Thelma Ledden, Sallyann and Wassey Hadyniak, Dottie and Lendal
Chase, Erna and Kevin Keller, Jim Waterman, Pete and Marion
Bowers.
Steve Bennett called the meeting
to order at 6PM.
The minutes were read and accepted
with the following corrections.
Page 3, Salt bid was obtained for
$.60 or $.70 less than had been quoted. The process of Homestein sentence was
selected.
is to be
deleted.
Under Road Commissioner, $4000 was
the amount in 2002 and 2003.
Page 1, No major repairs would be
made until an engineer looked at the dam.
Page 6 regarding prepatory court
costs, there was a motion made, seconded and accepted to pay
this.
RECREATION
COMMITTEE:
A request for fill where the old
snack shop had been has been received from the committee. At present they are
unsure where it is to be placed. Erna Keller had hoped to discuss this with
Bruce Peterson prior to this meeting. He had talked about jack hammering the
ledge outcropping down and filling in that area.
Other suggestions were to put it
where the old snack shack was and others want it to be placed down by the field.
An invitation was extended to all interested parties to meet at the Town field
on Wednesday around 7PM to further discuss this. Steve Bennett felt that the
town should be represented as well by one of the selectmen.
Wilson Hess made a motion to
recognize the recreation committee and to allow them to make the decision where
the monument goes. This was seconded and approved.
Funds around $500 still need to be
raised. Erna Keller did not have an exact fiqure from Bruce Peterson available.
CORRESPONDANCE:
Steve Bennett stated that we had
recently received checks as follow:
Homestead Exemption: $15,675
MRC: $553.00
MMA $503.00
Joe St. Clair from Rockland DOT
had left a message that the work on High Street has been postponed until next
year because of historical preservation.
The selectmen had felt they could
be patient until October or until nothing happened. However, if by then nothing
had happened the Town would need to take some action.
Steve Bennett stated that trucks
are coming down High Street and making partial turns, then having to back up and
finish the turn. Sometimes two or three turns are necessary, creating a hazard
as far as safety goes.
SELECTMEN’S
REPORTS:
The issue of Pleasant Street being
one way was again discussed. After a long discussion including making it two way
for trucks only, with a discussion following. After this discussion, it was
decided to return the street to a two way street for all traffic beginning
September 1, 2004. A motion to this effect was made, seconded and approved by
the Selectmen.
Signs for "Dangerous Intersection"
should be posted.
Steve Bennett has been in touch
with Attorney John Carver. The Marriner Paving issue was discussed and it was
suggested that a $7,500 fund would be necessary just to start that action.
Litigation could cost $25,000 to $30,000 if we were to follow through because we
were dissatisfied with their work. Steve Bennett feels this would be a waste of
money. The attorney felt it should go before a special town meeting and let
them, the Town decides.
Also discussed was a letter Steve
Bennett was going to write regarding the "threat " issue to the offending
individual. The attorney felt that a letter should not be written to that
person. It would just ratchet the issue up another level according to Wilson
Hess if it were in writing. It is currently in the hands of the DA.
Sandy Pond Dam: Dana Murch had
sent out a packet of information with a list of prospective owners of Sandy Pond
Dam.
Attorney Carver went over ways of
taking ownership of the dam. They were adverse possession; eminent domain or the
third way was the easiest. Find out anyone who could have a claim on that dam
have them sign a quick claim deed to the dam, including the state and then we
could take over ownership. How much this would cost was not answered. He did say
it would cost less than $5000.
Steve Bennett had received a call
Friday from Robert Betcheman related to the rain. Water was flowing over the top
of the dam. A few hours later he called back and it had risen two more inches.
There were four inches overtopping the dam. Jim Waterman was contacted and a
crew assembled to correct the situation on Saturday. Jim Waterman, Steve
Bennett, Robert Betcheman, Matt Bennett, Drew Fales and Jason Wade made up the
crew. They cleaned up the area and remedied the situation. We owe them a big
thank you.
Sand and Salt Shed. Steve Bennett
talked with former Selectman of Knox, Price, regarding their facility and went
over to their town office. Cost for their shed, which is a 72’X110’ structure,
was $150,000. It will hold 3,000 yards and they maintain 28 miles of road.
Twenty to forty feet of gravel apron surround the facility with approximately
one foot of gravel beneath it. Incidentally it is built on a gravel pit. Three
inches of foundation with cement blocks around piled up with a sealer between.
They did not get a $10,000 design plan as we had been previously told. It is
basically large concrete blocks, no foundation, galvanized steel truss, tubing,
anchor bolts and vinyl stretched over it. Vinyl has about a fifteen-year life.
No door because they ran out of money. Vandalism has been a problem. Questions
arose about the vinyl. Steve Bennett inquired as to why they didn’t go to steel
and wood truss for a foundation. Ron Price felt it would have been twice as
expensive. It cost Knox $50,000 to get to the point where they could begin to
stack the blocks up and according to Wilson Hess $49,000for the labor.
If the shed were built on the
Mitchell Road, we would need power, particularly if we were to put the town
garage there. A quote for power would be $14,000 for three tenths of a mile.
Wilson Hess felt the town of Knox
got hit pretty hard. A facility that comes into compliance would be done for a
lot less. We could build something that would reduce the travel distance, and
choose not to cover because of the expense, we have not worsened our situation
and we are in compliance. We have reduced the town’s liability for salt
pollution of adjacent wells. He suggested that we have a macadam base surrounded
by blocks. Later on we could come in and cover it with something.
Steve Bennett brought up the fact
that the loader would need to be covered. Wilson Hess suggested a $3,000 tarp
could be used to cover it. Vandalism was brought up. The site is already gated.
Dave Bennett has provided a list
of what needs to be done on a preliminary inspection of the town vehicles.
Wilson Hess made a motion to authorize Dave to oversee this work on town time.
This was seconded and approved. There is money available related to equipment.
Vehicles have not had the salt removed as should have been done in the past. If
Dave can do the work, he should do the work, otherwise have someone else do it.
Steve Cross had spoken with Warren
Spaulding to see if he would be interested in helping with the roads. A winter
road crew needs to be put together. It was felt that this could be a possible
solution until Town Meeting time or November.
Wilson Hess made a motion that
Warren Spaulding co-ordinate work for summer roads and to engage Dave Bennett
and others for what needs to be done. Also to authorize Warren Spaulding to get
together a winter crew and to co-ordinate preparation for winter road work
through November 1st under the direction of the Selectman. This
motion was made and seconded and approved by all Selectmen.
The Emergency Action Plan needs to
be submitted, it is overdue. Jim Waterman has it in draft form at present. Who
is the dam operator is one of the questions. It was decided to submit a draft
with a cover letter related to the pending action of ownership claims at a
special town meeting related. Wilson Hess will compose this letter. It is to be
sent to Rick Ferris and copies to Tony Fletcher and Dana Murch.
Wilson Hess reported on a bill
that had been received from Jerry Sullivan related to the Brown Goods pick-up.
$5,000 had been budgeted for. The bill was for $10,873.72 with $7,000 going for
tipping fees. This will have to be followed up on. There is the possibility that
there is a $4-5,000 overage on cost. He will speak with Jerry Sullivan after he
sees last years bill and sees the account from the past.
This past Friday, Aug
13th he and Steve Cross asked Herb Abbott to check on the roads
because of the heavy rains This took about one and a half
hours.
Wilson Hess has received a call
from the Rockland DOT office regarding state aid roads;
part of Pleasant Street, High
Street, and Palermo Road. There is a program available we have signed up for
2006, 2007, and 2008 for work to be done on state aid roads. Technically they
pay 100 percent, but they don’t have money for all to be done according to what
has been said in workshops. If the towns will prioritize the work that needs to
be done, they will pay one-third. They would send out a representative Aug 31st
in the PM if anyone were interested in that. Wilson Hess gave an example of
wetted sand. He feels it is an opportunity to find out more. Steve Bennett
expressed an interest.
Assessing continues. Friday all
three of the Selectmen will be doing the Village, Sibley Road and a few other
places. .
OLD
BUSINESS:
Steve Cross stated that the salt
had been ordered. Comes in after October 15th.
Sand needs to be ordered. He has
several pits he has to check. Will get Warren and perhaps his nephew to check on
them. Some of them he is skeptical of and we still have a little time before a
decision has to be made.
Road Commissioner job description
was discussed. As Wilson Hess has stated before, as much language as possible
should come from the "Powers and duties" statute, 2701, under highways. There
was a long discussion on qualifications which he felt were not a part of a good
job description. This person may not have the ability to do the work, but would
able to supervise. Steve Bennett felt that the selectmen have the right to
decide what his duties are. He asked that Wilson Hess speak with an attorney at
MMA by the name of Stoltz. This issue will be discussed again next week.
Special Town Meeting: There was a
long discussion among the Selectmen regarding some of the
articles.
On Article 7 related to the term
of the selectmen, there will be a recall provision.
The wording of this Wilson Hess
will work on.
On Article 8 relating to the Sand
and Salt Shed, Wilson Hess will bring some specifics to the article.
A motion was made, seconded and
approved that with these additional provisions the Special Town Meeting will be
held September 1, 2004 at 7PM at the Freedom Dirigo Grange Hall.
Steve Bennett has found a coverage
certificate from the MMA for 2002 and 2003. He has not found a more recent
one
TOWN BOARDS:
Historical Society: Jim Waterman
reported on this. Mets on the second Wednesday and voted to stay with the town.
Minutes will be forthcoming. Checkbook and petty cash will be given to Cindy
Abbott. The second has to do with the Old Town House and the removal of the
sliding doors. They need to be removed and Lorraine Overlock would like a family
member to have them as a relative of hers manufactured them. Otherwise they
would be destroyed. No objections were raised so a motion was made, seconded and
approved to give them to the interested party.
Also they are getting estimates to
board up behind where the doors are now and frame it in, frame up a window and
cover the area with plastic. This will use up most of the remaining
funds.
A map of Waldo County has been
restored professionally in Portland. This was done with a grant. It will be
framed and be in the Town office.
Jim Waterman as EMA director noted
that there are stones missing on the wall on the millpond side. These support
the dam. Four are presently down in the water. They are large enough to require
equipment to put them back in place. A gate was a possible consideration but was
not desired by everyone. Posting does no good.
There will be an emergency
exercise this weekend at Mount View High School. Eight towns will be
participating. The town of Palermo will cover Freedom.
Wilson Hess wondered if the Towns
fire department had the ability to be able to reach a three-story building. If
it were two story, this would be possible, but with difficulty according to Jim
Waterman. Otherwise the towns of Belfast or Fairfield are the two closest that
could reach 72’.
A cistern in the ground would be
essential, as several fire departments have pointed out.
Sprinklers, standpipes and several
other ideas are possible.
No decision ha been made on the
height of the new school.
Earthen Dam: Outdoor people had a
negative opinion about the gate. A key would also be needed to open the gate by
the Montville Fire Department. A neighborhood watch is a possibility. This has
been a quiet summer.
New Signs: Jim Waterman needs
signs to be made for Hawkins Lane and the Greeley road. One is for a new
development near Tony Neves.
Steve Bennett thanked him for
helping out Saturday morning.
Also the fire truck was taken in
for the recall.
COMPREHENSIVE
COMMITTEE:
Theresa Abbott said the reports
are coming in. They need to be in by the 31st of August. They will
have a meeting in September for tallying the results.
CEMETERY
COMMITTEE:
Theresa Abbott was asked by Steve
Bennett to check on some additional information related to people buried in the
cemetery. She has obtained more information, but is not prepared to report on it
tonight.
CORRESPONDANCE:
Steve Bennett stated that an
unsigned letter has been received, stating that the school superintendent of
schools, Dr. Lee will be here on Oct 7th.
Waldo County Selectman, July
10th, ten towns attended. Next meeting will be on Aug 26th
at the Waldo Town Hall. Tape of the pro and cons of the Poleski groups will be
heard. No one expressed interest in attending.
Letter from the Recreational Trail
Funding: There is grant money available. Wilson Hess will respond.
John Piotti’s term on the KVOG
Board of Directors expires in September. Wilson Hess has been nominated and
there is the possibility he might accept if elected.
Application for a homestead
exemption has been received from Mary Jane Jenkins.
Jay Guber dropped off some forms
related to speed limits and an enhanced step down coming into Freedom. Wilson
Hess wondered when we would see the signs designating the
speed.
FINANCIAL
WARRANTS:
Warrants signed
tonight:
Payroll
$1,069.17
Accounts Payable
$3,193.62
Steve Bennett adjourned the
meeting at 9:15PM.
Respectfully
submitted,
Marion
Bowers
MINUTES OFTHE FREEDOM
SELECTMEN'S MEETING AUG. 10, 2004
Selectmen present: Steve Bennett
and Wilson Hess.
Also present: Betty Sienkiewicz.
Theresa Abbott, Thelma Ledden, Jon Willette, Pete and Marion Bowers, and Dave
Bennett.
The meeting began at 6 PM with
Steve Bennett introducing Dana Murch, a hydropower and dam Supervisor from the
DEP. This is an informational meeting about the earthen dam and open for
discussion.
Steve Bennett gave a summary of
what we do know about the dam. The dam is not claimed by anyone. The State
thinks the same. There have been no tax bills issued to anyone in the past that
can be found. About five years ago Possi Nason thought he might own the dam. He
did own the island in the lake. He offered to sell or give his interest in the
dam to the town. All three selectmen agreed to take it, however the town voted
not to accept it. The town hired an attorney to do a title search and found that
Nason’s interest was quite vague. What ever the interest was he had, it was
transferred to a corporation in Newport he owned and in 1999 we were not sure it
still existed. Since then, Nason sold the remainder of his interest to a new
owner interest which did not mention the dam at all. The new owner of the island
has no interest in the dam in reading the deed.
At a recent informational meeting
with Tony Fletcher from the State and also attended by the Waldo County
Emergency Management Director issues surrounding the dam were discussed. It has
been over topped in the past few years.
Dana Murch has inspected the dam
today. He also inspected it four or five years ago.
There are at least three places
where there is evidence of over-topping. Also at that meeting a few weeks ago it
was stated that the depth of the pond and the height of the dam are about the
same. Water is seeping through the bottom of the dam which according to Tony is
not a big problem. The clogging up of the spillway could cause the lake level to
rise and trees and brush are a significant hazard and we need to take a good
many of them down. We would not do any major repairs on this until we had an
engineer look at the dam. Problems he found were 1. Trees on the dam, 2. Three
places where it has over-topped, 3. Spillway, 4. Big hole in the middle of the
dam where there had been a gate valve and 5. With the washing away of the dam,
it would need to have the crest of the dam increased.
Dana Murch stated that he was here
at the request of Everet Lingley in 2000 prior to the town meeting. On tax maps
at that time the town owned at least part of it, if they are accurate. He wanted
to know if we had had an attorney look at it. Steve Bennett has been unable to
contact the attorney recently. The town is certainly an abutter when you look at
the tax map according to Wilson Hess and depending upon how you define the
extent of the dam the town owns a part of the dam. It would appear that the
other abutter owns part as well. However no deed confirms this.
Dana Murch stated that prior to
1993 there was a law you had to register the dam if you owned it. This had to be
registered with the Agriculture Department and was later transferred to the DEP.
It was a process for dealing with dams that had become abandoned. Sandy Pond
Dam, also known as the earthen dam, was one of those. A title search by DOT in
1989 was done and the DEP found no ownership and declared the dam abandoned. By
law, it was posted to see if anyone wanted the dam for nothing. The only person
responding was a Joseph Sadowski from Hudson. In October 1993 ownership was to
be transferred to this individual. Transfer of title was never done because he
never got metes and bounds from a surveyor. Also the registration of the dam
needs to be done within one year for ownership. This was never done. Therefore
it is considered an abandoned dam. At present registration is not required for
ownership.
If the attorney were to
investigate it may be possible that Mr. Nason was never notified. All in all
ownership of the dam is muddled.
Wilson Hess stated that ownership
is to be determined in the future and we now need an owner to be declared. Tax
map also shows we own part of the dam.
There are several ways that this
can be accomplished according to Steve Bennett. 1. By eminent domain, 2.Adverse
possession. This could be argued in that the town has built the walkway feeling
that they owned the dam.
If nothing is done according to
Dana Murch, there is no major problem. The pond at its deepest is five to six
feet deep. The water quality is stable or slightly improving. In the past it
probably held more water. Theresa Abbott felt that the level had gone down a lot
in the past ten years.
If we want it to hold more water
something need to be done. Possibly fill in the big pit and washout with big
rocks. It might be worthwhile having an engineer look at, particularly the valve
and an old pipe.
Again Dana Murch reiterated the
concerns related to the dam: 1.Dam washing out, 2. Spillway becoming clogged and
could cause a washout. 3.Safety issues related to the trees and brush. 4. Trees
on the dam can die and when they do, the roots rot and produce cavities where
water can invade and would then require the rebuilding of the wall if they died.
He suggested removing the brush, take out leaning trees, particularly one birch
and it is essential that the spillway be kept clear.
Steve Bennett felt that people
with common sense could remove the trees and fill in the holes they left. We
could also fill in the sunken crest and maybe raise the crest where- ever it was
needed. Also we could install flashboards or gates and remove them in the fall,
put them in, in the spring.
Dana Murch asked what would happen
if nothing were done to the dam. No one is under legal ownership of the dam at
present. Eventually the dam would hold less and less water. It looks like it was
a small pond to begin with having an average depth is six foot. Someone went up
to this area and dammed the water. The sluiceway was probably opened in the
morning and closed at night. It was really a storage pond for the mills in all
probability. If no one does anything it will hold less water. If we want it to
hold water clearly something needs to be done.
The town has no legal right to do
any thing at present. How do we obtain ownership?
Wilson Hess would like to know
what the State’s position is. The town is willing to step in arguably. So what
is the State’s position relative to that dam? Ownership is a mess according to
Dana Murch. It is not clear that the DEP notified everyone in the abandonment
process. The process no longer exists because of lack of money.
Wilson Hess wanted to know if the
town did the metes and bounds would it change the situation. It is not clear
that anyone has the legal authority to do anything.
Steve Bennett wondered if we
approached our attorney and posted a legal notice regarding anyone with
ownership of the dam to make themselves known. The State would not get in the
way, but it would serve no purpose.
How do we get to own the dam?
According to Dana Murch, eminent domain is one way. Adverse possession is
another way. Assume the town wants to take ownership, of the dam; we would be
taking a financial liability. No one else wants to own it. DEP has already
attempted to find ownership of the dam.
Wilson Hess felt that we since we
are an abutter we could do the boundary line, come up with the metes and
boundaries and could go then go to all potential owners and ask them to execute
a quick claim to the town. According to Wilson Hess eleven years ago DEP had a
pretty good list of suspects, which Dana Murch can provide.
The structure of the dam, what it
encompasses, is there any place that the DEP has this anywhere was a question
Wilson Hess asked. He feels it would be of the best interest to the town to
obtain ownership of the dam. Safety and health factors in the future must also
be considered. Also the recreational values of the lake along with property
valuations are also a consideration.
If it goes before the town meeting
and is accepted, then Dana Murch would go to the attorney generals office and
see if we need to do something. DEP would be added to the list of those
notified.
Dana Murch was thanked by all for
his information.
Steve Bennett called the usual
Selectmen’s meeting to order at 7:15 PM. The minutes were read and one addition
was made. Elwin Turner had also received a call from Jeff Richardson making the
same comment as he had to others. With this addition they were accepted.
Later in the evening Jon Willette
requested a change be made in the past minutes where he was given credit for
washing "Big Red." He was not the one who did this.
A motion was considered to
reimburse Jon Willette for the ear shield. He refused
this.
Steve Cross called in salt bid and
he got it for a lesser amount, $.60 or $.70. Wilson Hess was unsure of the exact
amount.
Wilson Hess was asked if he had
spoken to Denis Jones yet because of the higher fee he had charged. In addition
Steve Bennett felt that it should have been for $6.00a yard. He asked that when
Wilson does speak to Denis Jones that he mentions the latter statement.
A letter has not been sent off to
Jeff Richardson until Steve Bennett talks to the attorney.
SELECTMEN’S
REPORT:
Steve Bennett congratulated Wilson
Hess for being a good witness in this recent court case and for not backing
down. Steve Bennett expressed his appreciation, as did Jon Willette.
Wilson Hess wanted to express his
appreciation for all the folks who worked on Freedom Field Day. The attendance
of youngsters was good. Also for those people who were involved in the parade
and also for the Grange speaker, a Maine humorist, they all should be thanked.
It was a good day.
There are about 100 homes that
still need to be looked at for taxes and this should take place next week.
Thursday, he and Steve Bennett will look at more. It is still Wilson Hess’s hope
that they will be done by Labor Day. There have been many corrections. Once this
is done then they can begin the process of figuring out the taxes.
Mr. Hess was at the protection
order for Jon and he would like this corroborated and put into the record that
as he came into the court house, he greeted and was greeted by Jeff Richardson
and once again Jeff Richardson spoke to him directly stating that he could have
made this go away two or three weeks ago. We will see about this. It is in the
town’s best interest and it is important to take action related to town
employees, whether true or false. It is important to stand by our employees. It
is not right to constrain town employees while they are on the job.
We have the resignation of the
road commissioner. A motion was made and seconded to
accept Elwin Turner’s resignation
with regret.
The CEO was expected to be here
and isn’t so we will have twenty minutes extra.
TOWN
BOARDS:
Recreational
Committee: Steve Bennett
was asked by the Kellers to put some fill around the area where the old snack
shack was. They were also questioned as to when and where the monument to Red
Mitchell was going to be put. They also were asked if they were going to take
some trees down. There was some indecision in their answers. There is a need for
a representative to come in to a selectmen’s meeting and report what is going
on. Wilson Hess had also questioned them and also got vague answers.
CEMETERY
COMMITTEE:
Theresa Abbott stated that Jon
Willette had taken down trees today and had done a wonderful job. Theresa had
picked up a lot of brush. Herb was the overseer. Cemeteries that were worked on
were on Russell Road, Penney’s on Mitchell Road and Danforth’s on Hardwood Lane.
These three cemeteries are all done and look good. Drew Fales has cleaned the
Cummings Cemetery, which is located on a road off the North Palermo
Rd.
Yet to be done are one or two down
behind Rick Martins. They have several names.
On one of them Steve Bennett
remembers the gravestone stating that this person was the first doctor born in
Freedom. Repairs are necessary in some of the cemeteries. There are broken iron
posts and gravestones that require repair. They will need a type of mortar to
repair some of them. Wilson Hess thanked them for their work. He also mentioned
that people come looking at cemeteries here and they go away with an impression
of how they are cared for. It is a reflection on the town. A former selectman
had done extensive research, Norman Eliot and his wife, on all the old cemetery
lots. When he died this was not given to the town. It is in the archives in
August. Steve Bennett asked Theresa Abbott to check and see if we could get a
copy of this. Wilson Hess suggested that she call our Historical Society and
they might be interested in following up on this. Steve Bennett has had several
people ask him about Beaver Hill Congregational Church and Cemetery. Thelma
Laden felt that Harry had found it. She will follow up on this.
Thompson Hill Cemetery is in
Montville.
Jon Willette mentioned that the
Russell Rd is in bad repair and needs attention. This makes it difficult to get
to the cemetery. This will have to wait until we get a road commissioner.
COMPREHENSIVE
PLANNING:
Theresa Abbott said that they
would begin distributing the survey this week. Responses can be left at the town
office, the post office and at the General Store. There are one hundred and
twenty-six surveys that will go out of state.
CORRESPONDENCE:
We have received a letter from the
Revenue Service that indicates that there will be a change in the farm and open
space tax law.
All towns in the state received an
application for pre-disaster mitigation grant money. This was given to Wilson
Hess.
There were some bills related to
the Fire Department. They will be given to Cindy.
NEW
BUSINESS:
Road
Commissioner: Selectmen
have a lot of authority in deciding what the duties of the road commissioner
are. Salary is not included. Steve Bennett has written up a job description of
the position for Public Works Director/ Road Commissioner since none was found.
A copy of which is attached.
Wilson Hess had two issues, one
immediate and one a future issue. We have an immediate need for a road
commissioner and the job description is right on the bull’s eye for now. Do we
want to have a director of public works in the future? This would need to be
voted on at a town meeting.
The selectmen have to act as road
commissioner when there is none.
In the town budget the road
commissioner was to be paid $4,000 according to the 2003 report. However he was
paid almost $11,000. Presently the road commissioner now goes out and gets
someone else to do everything. It becomes an $18.per hour position. Steve
Bennett feels it should be a salaried position, not an hourly rate. It is a
multi-skilled position. A question was brought up about the road commissioner
preparing the road annual budget for that position. One has to consider the
knowledge this person should have since he has been directly involved.
The duties as they are now written
need to be looked at and changes made if necessary and voted on quite soon. We
need to post an opening for this position quite soon as well.
There is only $2000 left for that
position.
Wilson Hess feels that if we are
going to get the ideal commissioner at $18.00 an hour, we are probably going to
get some one who views it as a public service and money may not be the
issue.
The selectmen need to elect
someone and this takes at least a month.
Steve Cross asked Dave Bennett if
he would be interested in maintaining the vehicles and they would find someone
else to do the roads for the time being.
Wilson Hess explained that the
Selectmen act in a supervisory position until the vacancy is filled.
Wilson Hess feels that an election
is the way to go and that won’t be before the middle of
September.
In the meantime work needs to be
done on the vehicles. Dave Bennett mentioned that work needs to be done on one
of the plows, belts need to be put in one of the sanders, and hourly meters need
to be put in and he has made up a clip board with daily check off and put them
in the two new trucks. The meters have not been installed according to Jon
Willette.
Wilson Hess felt that they should
offer Dave Bennett this work and asked him if he could come up with a list of
what needs to be done in the next couple of weeks. Jon Willette offered his
help.
Anyone interested should apply and
come see the selectmen.
Wilson Hess felt that we should
pull from the language of Powers and Duties of the Road Commissioner anywhere we
can in this job description.
Employee re-imbursement for Jon
Willette’s preparatory court cost was $101.30. He was working for the town when
all of this occurred. No attorney fees were involved. A motion was made and
seconded to reimburse him this amount. This motion was approved.
Planning Board met last week.
Steve Bennett had left information for them for an upcoming workshop for
planning board members and members of the board of appeals.
A motion was made for members of
the planning board to attend one of the workshops if they so desire. They could
spend up to $120.00 to attend. This motion was approved.
An elected officials workshop is
being sponsored by MMA. Steve Bennett would like to go to. Wilson Hess made a
motion that they spend $20.00 for Steve to attend. This was
approved.
SPECIAL TOWN
MEETING
3.Earthen dam
4. Marriners
paving
5. Legal fees
6. Selectmen’s term change with a
recall provision
1. Salt and Sand Shed
2. Design plans for Town garage
3. Deleted.
There was much discussion between
the two selectmen regarding Article 7. Wilson Hess felt that a macadam base and
then concrete blocks or a poured foundation topped with a metal frame and fabric
would suffice. The fabric is guaranteed for twenty years. The cost would be
estimated at $40,000. He was not wild about building a frame structure.
Steve Bennett will talk to either
Clayton or Galen Larrabbe before he makes a decision. The size of the structure
would be 75X110.
The warrant as it is cannot be
voted on tonight. August 31 would be the date for the special town meeting.
It is not known if they need
approval of the budget committee. They will be asked to attend next week.
PAYROLL
WARRANTS:
Payroll $1,318. was
approved.
A request for a concealed firearm
for Lillian Phillips was approved.
Jon Willette brought up the fact
that several of the signs for roads in town are missing.
He also reminded the Selectmen
about attending a workshop for Dig Safe in September.
The meeting was adjourned at 9
P.M.
Respectfully
submitted,
Marion
Bowers
MINUTES:
SELECTMEN’S MEETING, AUGUST 3, 2004
Selectmen present: Steve Bennett,
Steve Cross and Wilson Hess.
Also present: Sallyann and Wassey
Hadyniak, Thelma Ledden, Theresa Abbott, Betty Sienkiewicz, Elwin Turner, Jay
Guber, Jon Willette, Pete and Marion Bowers.
At 6PM, prior to the usual meeting
Selectman Steve Bennett asked Jay Guber introduced our guest speaker, Phil
Curtis, a local Maine road consultant, who is hired by the DOT to speak about
road conditions, particularly about salt, sand and shed technology. The latest
advice related to road conditions in the winter will also be
discussed.
Mr. Curtis began his talk by
stating that the method of treating snow and ice has changed. The DOT is getting
away from the use of sand. Salt will be a priority. Sand will be used only when
necessary.
Brine is made using liquid calcium
chloride along with the salt. Applying this to the road prevents the snow and
ice from freezing on the road. How successful has this been? From a higher level
of service, lower cost, and getting back to safer driving conditions the answer
is yes. As to customer satisfaction there are times during a storm that the
conditions can be very slippery. The demand from the public has been for a
higher level of service.
Sand has a higher level of
pollutant in it, which has been a concern of the DOE. The Clean Air Water Act of
1993 had tied into it some timetables when dealing with water. Rivers and
streams had to be cleaned up. What we are now finding is clean air is not clean
in the winter when we spread sand. It becomes dust, which is not acceptable
because of the size of the grain of sand. After the 1993 Act the size of the
sand granule had to be so small that it could not be seen. It had to have a pm
level of 2.5. Prior to 1993 it was 10. Sand always is left behind, in ditches,
culverts and eventually into the waterways, brooks, streams, river etc. With the
brine system, a better job, less expensive and a higher level of service are
possible. More and more municipalities are going this route. Using sand gives a
false sense of security but it has nothing to do with the ability to stop. There
is also the cost of clean up after using sand.
The main objective is to get back
to black pavement. The brine technique gets us back to normal quicker. Sweepers
can only pick up about 25% of the sand used.
For Freedom to change will involve
an operational change. This has been a struggle for those who have changed to
the salt brine system. There are three important "rights" for it to be
successful. Basically they are right amount, right place, and the right time.
All are essential for success. These were discussed at length with those present
who had questions along with the costs involved including equipment. We would
need 1. A ground speed control system, 2. An on board pre-wetting system and 3.
A pavement temperature-sensing device. An estimated basic system would be $6,
500 per unit. . The hydraulic pump system is problem free, not so with an
electric system. Also mentioned was the fact that the spreaders would need to be
washed after each storm because of the corrosive action of the calcium chloride.
Maintenance on equipment will need to be done more often. Also needed would be a
plastic storage tank for the liquid calcium. Necessary training is available.
Mr. Curtis felt it took about three seasons for the operator to gain confidence
in adjusting to the needed changes with each storm. He also pointed out that
there is a 10 to 15% decrease in operational time.
Using the salt and calcium brine
technique costs much less than the sand and salt technique. In an example he
gave us the difference per mile for sand and salt was$250 and the salt calcium
mix was $37.50 The town of Freedom has about 25 miles that need to be treated.
Steve Bennett called the regular
meeting of the selectmen to order at 7:12PM.
Jay Guber, code enforcement
officer, gave a list of recent building permits.
Betty Sienkiewicz for an 8X12 deck
addition on 144 Bryant Rd.
An application from CMP for Jeff
Scott, which he is not going to fill out.
Proper procedure has not been
properly followed even though he has been instructed.
Peter Coughlin has just sent a
packet of information to the Selectmen.
Eric Kluck has faxed more
information regarding the salt-sand shed.
Everyone has been notified the
town has complied with the required drainage ditch and erosion
control.
Mr. Guber will wait until he gets
the word from the selectmen to contact the people at DEP in regards to the Dam.
Steve Bennett talked with Dana Murch, a supervisor from the DEP Dam and Hydro-
power regarding the Dam and he will be here next week.
Rick Baker, from the DEP, on the
shoreline ordinances, will also be asked to attend by Mr. Guber.
A trailer present on the Belfast
RD was questioned. The owner has been into the office for information. He has
initiated contact with Jay Guber.
Minutes of the last meeting were
read and approved.
Mr. Bennett stated that anyone who
wants to get paid must have the necessary information in by Thursday, as Cindy
will be on vacation.
Cindy has produced an Income and
Expense Statement through the end of July. At the beginning of the year the
check book balance was $192,000. Currently it is $90,000. Mr. Bennett would like
to have the budget numbers put into the computer as well.
Mr. Bennett felt that the meeting
related to the Earthen Dam was worthwhile.
Recently an individual came into
the town office and spoke with the town clerk. This person wanted her to speak
with the selectmen and make sure they understood that a certain town employee
should not carry his case any further. He should just drop it. If this wasn’t
done, allegedly he would make life difficult and sue the town blind or words to
that effect. Wilson Hess has been subpoenaed so he had no comment. Mr. Bennett
will respond formally to the individual. An addition was made that Elwin Turner
had received the same type of phone call.
Road Commissioner
Report:
Elwin Turner stated that all the
FEMA work has been done. Reports need to be made out regarding this work. They
will probably want to inspect the work as well.
Mr. Hess liaison with Jim
Waterman, gave a report. A draft of the emergency action plan has been made. It
will be acted on next week. There is also the need to identify a Dam operator.
Mr. Hess had a list of people he
would like to extend thanks to.
Steve Bennett for the use of his
roller in the town.
Also a thank you to Cindy for the
work she did earlier but also for working on a project related to the fuel tax.
The town is exempt. With her help and Paul we are going to get back $366. The
last time this was done is not known. The tax has to be paid and then it is
reimbursed when applied for. The town saves money when regular diesel is bought
by doing it with a key card or with a slip and the number of gallons and price
on it.
Also a thank you to Jon
Willette,Elwin Turner and Arthur Richardson for chipping on the Greeley RD.
The Girl Scouts have donated mulch
out front, so a thank you to them.
Mr. Hess also has spoken with Herb
Abbott to check on cemeteries and see what work needs to be done and do it.
The Historic Preservation Grant
was not funded. We have been encouraged to reapply in
October.
In relationship to Jon Willette,
Mr. Hess has spoken with the MMA as to whether legal counsel should be obtained.
They recommended that an incident report be filed. The need for monies for a
worker to have a protection order needs to be considered. At present we have no
legal fund. Mr. Bennett suggested that he speak with Attorney John
Carver.
Mr. Cross wanted to thank you Jon
Willette for purchasing ear shields and he felt should be reimbursed. A motion
was made and seconded to reimburse Jon for them .He also wanted to thank Mr.
Hess for the use of his chipper.
Mr. Bennett gave Elwin Turner a
copy of a letter requesting information needed in writing by August
10th. This letter was signed by all three selectmen. Elwin felt he
had most of the information readily available except for salaries. This
information requested will be helpful in preparing for the next year. Last year
he stated we purchased 160 tons of salt and used 150. This year he has requested
130 tons from the co-op. Sand 2,000 yards are needed for this year, plus what we
have now for a total of 3000 yards.
Elwin Turner was asked about how
he felt about using the brine mixture. He was against it at present. Steve Cross
felt that we should wait as well. Mr. Hess felt that we should seriously
consider it for the future. Steve Bennett agreed with Mr.
Hess.
COMPREHENSIVE
COMMITTEE:
Sallyann Hadyniak read a cover
letter that will go out with the survey. Volunteers are still needed. There are
only four people doing all this work.
NEW
BUSINESS:
A request from the Maine State
Police regarding a concealed weapon permit for Harold Christensen was Okayed.
Special town meeting August
24th to be considered for the following:
Earthen Dam
Marriner
Paving
Legal Fund
Changing terms of selectmen,
staggered, but for a 3-year term.
Salt and Sand
Containment
Town Garage
Road
Commissioner
These will be discussed next week.
FINANCIAL
WARRANTS:
Payroll:
$1,111.73
Accounts Payable:
$10,001.14
There was a discussion regarding
the amount that Denis Jones had charged. Wilson Hess would discuss this with
him.
Shortly after this, Elwin Turner,
had a few words to say and turned in his garage key.
CORRESPONDENCE:
There was a great deal of
correspondence little of which required action.
The MMA workers comp loss is $503.
00. This is a loss ratio of 9%
Waldo County Commissioner meets
Aug 17th. They have reduced the regions down from seven to five.
Alpha I will be having a workshop
September 22nd.
Also one on sexual harassment on
Sept 14th.
MMA will be having a dinner Nov
28th, $40 per person, for frequently
asked
questions.
A fax has arrived from the state
related to reimbursements. Information related to formulas and TRIO with an
attached report. This was given to Mr. Hess.
The meeting adjourned at 9:10
P.M.
Respectfully
submitted,
Marion
Bowers
Minutes of the Freedom
Selectmen’s Meeting July 27 2004
Those in attendance were
1st. Selectman Steve Bennett, 2nd Selectman Wilson Hess,
and 3rd Selectman Steve Cross was absent due to overworking in being
out in the field with Wilson Hess. Also present were, Harold and Viola Greeley,
Cy and Marilyn Perry, Hilary and Tom Fleming, Theresa Abbott, Jay Guber, Wassey
and Sallyann Hadyniak.
1st. Selectman Steve
Bennett opened the meeting at 7:50 because prior to that time starting at 6 p.m.
there were two representatives from the Waldo County and State of Maine
Emergency Management Offices that explained the situation regarding the Earthen
Dam #3 and answered questions. It was in Informational informal meeting. Mr.
Bennett showed several photo’s of Sandy Pond to give the public a better idea of
the layout of the pond.
Minutes of the Previous
Meeting:
The spelling of Skidduels was
corrected to Skidgels.
Corrections to the minutes of the
Selectmen’s meeting of July 20, 2004 are as follows:
It was stated by Mr. Hess that the
road work needs to be done by August 4th and not the
15th.
Mr. Steve Bennett found a 1998
study of the concrete dam in the office
The warrants didn’t need to be
signed, the warrants were signed.
Wilson Hess moved to pass the
corrections as read and it was second by
Steve
Bennett.
Selectmen’s
Report:
Mr. Steve
Bennett
A. Mr. Steve Bennett stated the
town warrants had been signed in the amount of $924.10 which included CMP,
office supplies, telephone, etc. The total of the payroll warrant was $1,203.84.
B. Road information will be passed
until next week. A draft of a cover letter will be attached to survey by
Comprehensive Planning Board to be signed by the Selectmen and Hilary Fleming
will have it ready next week. Mr. Wilson requested the change to the cover
letter at the top should be We.
C. Mr. Bennett suggested that a
date for a special meeting should be set to discuss the Earthen Dam #3, (Sandy
Pond), Marriners, salt and sand shed and town garage.
D. Mr. Bennett would like to see
Mr. James Cassida of the Department of Environmental Protection to get involved
regarding the Earthen Dam from Augusta. His phone number is 287-7811. His title
is Enforcement and Field Services Regional Supervisor Central Maine
Region.
Mr. Hess:
A. Approximately 1000 yards in
sand is left. The co-operative buy is postponed in July and a decision has to be
made next month because the word is that salt is going to
China.
Comprehensive Planning
Committee:
A. Hilary Fleming reported that Chris Huck
(from KVKOG) will attend the Comprehensive Planning Committee meeting on
Thursday and invited the Selectmen to attend. Mr. Hess said he would be
unavailable but Mr. Bennett stated that he would attend. Mrs. Fleming requested
that Mr. Huck bring some special maps and to see if he can give us any idea as
how to raise some money to help with this project. The survey is complete and
will be hand delivered. If a resident needs help in filling it out we will be at
their disposal. We will also return to pick up the completed survey from those
that cannot make it to the drop off boxes that will be located in Freedom
General, Freedom Town Hall and possibly the Freedom Post Office. Mrs. Fleming
wants a list of property owners and will call Cindy Abbott for address of non
Maine residents. Next step is to look at the inventory and call the folks at
KVKOG for Comprehensive Planning and updating the Comprehensive Plan. We will
have a comprehensive plan!
Code Enforcer Officer:
Jay Guber
A, Mr. Guber received a phone call
from someone out of state and said they would like to see the 13 acres of land
on Sandy Pond turned into a golf course. Upon talking to Mr. Skidgel, Mr. Guber
found out that Mr. Skidgel is passing the land onto his daughter to sell the
property. Mr. Guber found more boundaries, and stated that Mr. Skidgel is aware
and will dispose of the tires. They also may be a chance that Mr. Skidgel will
offer some of the property to the town.
B. Peter M. Coughlan P.E. Director
of Community Service Division Department of Transportation was asked by Mr.
Guber when their tech was going to get in touch with us with the intent to help
us out. We haven’t received an answer but Mr. Guber is working on it.
C. David Allen from DOT didn’t
know what is going on with the turn around. Mr. Guber requested that Mr. Allen
send a letter to the town confirming that Mr. Guber stated that we asked for a
down speed limit and said he would get it out next week.
D. Mr. Guber gave his opinion upon
leaving that he feels it is NOT in the best interest of the town to claim
ownership of the Earthen Dam (#3). He feels the town of Freedom should show a
little of Freedom to push it away onto them and not to us. Mr. Guber stated the
state will NEVER breech the pond for numerous reasons.
Open
Discussion:
A. Marilyn Perry said that Greeley and Rollins
Road are sinking. It was graded twice and the road is a mess. It was suggested
that the Road Commissioner be invited to the next meeting. To answer the
questions that the public has for him.\
B. Another question asked was when the brush
is going to be picked up.
C. Mr.
Greeley had several questions regarding the sand shed. Mr. Hess explained that
it would be cheaper to move it from its present place. It would be placed on a
slab and the cost will be changed dramatically. If the Sand Shed is placed
anywhere on the loop you will be cutting out 3 miles round trip. Mr. Hess and
Mr. Bennett walked around the present area and the salt is running off from the
pile into the ground. They were approached by a prospective buyer, and thought
if they can sell for a reasonable price and get almost as much money for a
garage by the old dump. There are monitoring wells at the dump site and it is
more cauterized. Wetted salt will cut the amount of sand drastically. We must
get a man in from DOT to explain it all, and it must be done fast for the clock
is ticking.
D. Mr.
Bennett stated that there are 4 or 5 big issues that need to be dealt
with.
E. Theresa Abbott is very concerned about the
corner across from her house. Trucks keep running over her grass and the state
still has not started work in that area. Mrs. Abbott would like to know how long
it wills we have to wait and if it will be done this season. Everyone would like
to see what happens for we could be waiting a long time. It was suggested that
we wait till October 1, 2004. Mrs. Abbott also reported that the street lights
are working very well now.
Mr. Wilson Hess made a motion to
adjourn the meeting at 8:34 and it was second by Mr. Steve Bennett. All were in
favor.
Respectfully
submitted,
Sallyann
Hadyniak
Minutes of the Freedom
Selectmen’s Meeting July 20, 2004
Those in attendance were
1st. Selectman Steve Bennett, 2nd Selectman Wilson Hess,
and 3rd. Selectman Steve Cross. Also present were, Betty Sienkiewicz,
Thelma Ledden, Jon Willette, Wassey and Sallyann Hadyniak.
1st Selectman Steve
Bennett opened the meeting at 6 p.m.
It was stated by Sallyann Hadyniak
that the meeting was going to be recorded.
Minutes of the Previous
Meeting:
Corrections to the minutes of the
Selectmen’s meeting of July 13, 2004 are as follows:
A special town meeting may need to
be held in August to discuss Marriners work on Greeley and Bryant Rd. Steve
Bennett moved to pass the minutes with the correction and it was second by
Wilson Hess. All were in favor.
Steve Bennett questioned the
inspection of the Earth Dam in 2002. He spoke to Carol Richardson about it and
she didn’t know a thing. If there was anything in there, it should be in a
folder marked dam or Sandy Pond. Mr. Hess stated he saw a report somewhere in
the office not similar to 2003 report but dated 2002 addressed to Mike Turner
regarding the dam
Mr. Bennett didn’t look to see if
the snack shack was moved and Jon Willette stated that he and Herb Abbott
discussed it and thought it could be moved with the pay loader. Herb Abbott
contacted Jim Waterman to see if he wanted them to move it and at this time, Jim
Waterman did not get back to Herb Abbott.
Erna Keller told Wilson Hess if
they want to get into the shack to remove whatever is in there, they can get
into the shack by lifting the pins out of the hinges. Jon Willette disagreed
because the hinges are on the inside. Erna told Steve Bennett that she will give
a key to Dave Bennett who didn’t want to move it with anything in there. Since
it wasn’t done, Steve Bennett suggested that they cut the
lock.
There may be good news about
Skidduels that they will remove the tires himself from the
property.
It has been reported by Cindy
Abbott that the Road Commissioner, Elwin Turner has been paid $4,500.00 already.
$7,000.00 has been reserved for the Road Commissioner. A fair piece of that
amount is FEMA related. It was reported by Wilson Hess that Mr. Turner does
write down how much of that is FEMA related.
SELECTMEN’S
REPORT:
Mr. Steve Cross had nothing to
report.
Mr. Wilson
Hess:
A. The
GIS grant that we put in was not approved because we do not have a Comprehensive
Plan! We did not score high enough on points. The grant was to take the tax maps
and have them digitalized. We will try again next year for it isn’t a one shot
deal. Sallyann Hadyniak stated we will try very hard to have a Comprehensive
Plan in effect next year! The dollar figure attached to that is $4.00 a parcel,
so there were seven hundred and odd parcels, so we are looking at $28,300.00
that we were going to get. Put another $2,000.00 out of the budget into it which
was left over from last year and we would have a $5,000.00
project.
B. Mr.
Hess met with the Historical Society at their request. They are trying to
understand better their role to be town or a private entity. They have
interesting and valuable item’s that is town property and since they are stored
in several houses they feel liable if something should happen. One item is a
very valuable map of Waldo County dated from the 1800’s. Jim Waterman was part
of the workshop that explained town properties. They have lots of pictures,
books, and an organ worth a couple of thousand dollars. They thought that
perhaps they can be stored at the town hall or after the old town hall is
restored; the items can be kept safely there if something should happen in their
homes, these articles can never be replaced and there is a case of
liability.
C. Roads: The brush work was completed last
week. The brush needs to be picked up and dumped at Arthur Richardson’s
property. As of tonight, the brush was still there.
D. Because of the detour, the state did a
great job of grading Smithton and Mitchell Roads while working on North Palermo
Road putting in culverts.
E. Cindy Abbott done a lot of work reconciling
finances and is in the process of putting tax cards in hanging binders. Wilson
suggested that Cindy hire her daughter to do it. She is 17 years old and will
work for less money putting them into a three ring binder.
F. Cindy Abbott has also produced the end of
the month statement for July and is just waiting for two items. Wilson compared
the bank statements to the computer and all was o.k. There was a problem with
the computer but it was fixed. Wilson also has some information that he will
discuss later on in the meeting regarding the salt and shed
building.
Mr. Steve
Bennett:
Correspondence:
A. An
invitation to the annual Maine Property Tax School for abutting assessors
(class) for one week.
B. We
have our signed copy for Mutual Aid from Montville.
C. A
new media campaign to tell the public about storm related issues. It should be
given Jay Guber and will be left on Cindy’s desk.
D. Another Ballet From MMA—Legislative Policy
Comm. One Candidate namely Sandra Blake. Steve Bennett, Wilson Hess and Steve
Cross voted and signed the ballot.
E. No
town officers report.
F. Comprehensive Planning Board will be
meeting on Thursday and the survey’s will be hand delivered and then help fill
them out/return to pick them up and set up boxes in the Freedom General Store,
the Post Office and Freedom Town Hall.
Old
Business:
A Marriners Paving is all done! We
can be an ostrich and stick our head in the sand, or take it to court. $5,000.00
as a retainer and up to $25,000.00 or $30.000.00 to take them to court and still
come away empty handed. Or we could decide to drop it, and just chalk it up to
an expensive lesson learned. Let it be up to the people and have a special town
meeting and let the people decide what to do. We must also respond to the
attorney.
It was stated that Lane
Construction did a great job.
This is old business for next week
and we’ll eat that frog one way or another. July 27, 2004
B We are waiting for the state to
do something on High Street before the issue of Pleasant Street is resolved. We
have to take a position. It must be voted on safety vs.
inconvenience
C The High Street signs were taken
down; therefore Cindy will be notified by Jon Willette to order more
signs.
D Jon Willette cut the tree by the
30 MPH sign.
No New
Business:
Warrants:
A. Need
to be signed.
B. Steve Bennett will call Dennis Jones and
Elwin Turner.
C. Wilson Hess stated that all brush money is
spent at this point.
A motion was made by Steve Bennett
at 8:10 to close the meeting. Wilson Hess second and motion was carried. All
were in favor.
Respectfully
submitted,
Sallyann
Hadyniak
Minutes of the Freedom
Selectmen’s Meeting July 13, 2004
Selectman present: Wilson Hess.
Selectmen Steve Bennett was in Boston and Steve Cross is recuperating from
having a pacemaker and a defibrillator put in place.
Also present: Jay Guber, Thelma
Ledden, and Sallyann Hadyniak and Marion Bowers.
Selectman Hess opened the meeting
at 6:02.
Minutes were read and approved
after corrections in spelling of names, Gerry Spaulding and Hilary Fleming.
Mr. Hess gave information on Dam
#3, the earthen dam. There was an evaluation done by Waldo County and the State
in 2002 and a written report in 2003.
The concrete dam #1 which is the
lower Sandy Pond dam is in good shape.
Dam #2 which creates the millpond
has been breached.
Dam #3 is in slow deterioration
and is a potential hazard. If it overflows Dam #1, both bridges would
go.
Rick Farris, a representative from
the Waldo County and Maine Emergency Management will be at a meeting on July
27th at the Dirigo Grange Hall to discuss the situation. There is a
fund in the State to help maintain such dams.
In 1980 The EPA deemed title to
the abutting landowners of the area. Currently it is Grassi and the Town. If the
landowners don’t correct the situation, people on the pond could ask for
ownership.
The State’s solution is to breach
such dams to prevent further problems.
Cindy has now been able to
reconcile the checkbook with the computer. This will be routinely checked on a
monthly basis. As of 6/30/04 check book balance was $117,944.77. Deposits:
$27,000, Written checks: $66,000. This was for the month.
The North Palermo RD will be
closed July 19, 20, and the 21st. The State will be doing work on the
culverts.
Tina Freeman needs to be contacted
regarding the lock on the old snack shack. This is her lock. The fire department
will have to use bolt cutters otherwise.
Marriners has patched areas on the
Greeley and Bryant RD. The work is not up to par and it may be that a special
town meeting will have to be held for other possible remedies.
There is a special town meeting in
August and this possibly could be discussed then.
Jay Guber, code enforcement
officer, had a letter from KVCOG regarding the revolving loan fund. This can be
combined with a variety of loans and has a five to ten year term with interest
near the New York Prime.
He had also received information
from the Department of Forestry regarding intent to harvest wood lots on two
parcels; one lot owned by Brian Raven and the other by Herman
Watson.
Mr. Guber had also met with Sid
Skidgell regarding the tire pile. This will be taken care of by Skidgell. He
also stated that the place would be put up for sale. The pins designating the
property line were found. It was suggested that it would be nice if some of the
land could go to the Town. He will discuss this with his
family.
Michael Nesmith and Madeline
Iverson applied for a building permit for a two-car garage.
The Fire Department grant is still
active. There has been a recall on the new truck, which will be taken care of.
Hilary Fleming has met with the
Planning Board. The survey related to the Comprehensive Plan will be mailed out
soon.
WARRANTS:
$47, 719.83 accounts payable,
which included $24,557 for the school and $4,726 for
insurance.
$1,295.00 for payroll.
The road commissioner has already
received $4,500.
The fieldwork for taxes will be
done by the end of July and probably by the end of August taxes will be out.
A thank you to Jon Willette for
installing the air conditioner and to Cindy for offering to have it moved from
her office.
Marion Bowers asked about taping
the minutes. This would be a help as a reference. Steve Bennett had been
approached in the past and felt it was a good idea. The office does have a tape
recorder available. Tapes would be needed and Sallyann Hadyniak stated that she
had tapes available. Mr. Hess did not object to the idea.
Meeting was adjourned at 6:37
PM.
Respectfully
submitted,
Marion Bowers
Minutes of the
Town of Freedom Selectmen’s Meeting July 6, 2004
Those in attendance were
1st Selectman Steve Bennett, 2nd Selectman Wilson Hess and
3rd Selectman Steve Cross was absent due to
illness.
Also present were, Theresa Abbott,
Betty Sienkiewicz, Jon Willette, Wassey and Sallyann
Hadyniak.
1st. Selectman Steve
Bennett called the meeting to order at 6 p.m.
Minutes of the Previous
Meeting:
Under the Selectmen’s reports,
item C, the word maybe is stricken out, and under Fire Chief’s report, item C,
adding Nason to the name of Posie. Under Old Business, Mr. Hess wanted to
acknowledge Jon Willette for the flowers he donated to the Town of Freedom by
saying "Thank You".
Steve Bennett made a motion to
accept the exceptions to the minutes and second by Wilson Hess. Motion made and
carried.
Selectmen’s
Reports:
Mr.
Bennett
A. MMA requested that a report be sent to them
regarding the salary survey of the town employees.
B. A bill was received from Dennis Jones for
2,226 yards of gravel for the roads at $6.00 per yard totaling $13,
356.00.
C. Mr. Bennett will be in Mass. During the
week of the July 13, 2004 meeting. If Steve Cross isn’t back, there will not be
a Selectmen’s meeting.
D. Rick Ferris of Waldo County, and Tony
Fletcher (state dam inspector) will be attending the Selectmen’s meeting on July
20, 2004.
E. A study has never been done of the Earth
Dam. It’s best to gather all the information available and then proceed from
there. Mr. Bennett drew a bit of art work and explained all about Sandy Pond and
stated that it cannot be ignored.
F. The computer in the office is o.k. and can
be used.
G. Last Thursday Mr. Bennett and Mr. Hess
scheduled a work day. They went and inspected the town garage, measured the land
and stated there was plenty of room for the san/salt shed. They looked for some
of the boundaries and spoke to Jerry Spaulding. There is a possibility that Mr.
Spaulding would be interested in purchasing the site. They traveled the Greeley
Road and stopped at the dump site, then returned to the office and looked at the
town map. There are 25 miles of roads in town and at least 75% are on the loop,
starting at Mitchell Road and back. If a salt/sand facility were built next to
the dump site, (approx. 1 ½ acres it would save about a three mile round trip.
Wetted salt should be looked into. The cost of approximately $68,000.00 vs.
$100.000.00.
H. Mr. Bennett spoke of Mitchell Field. The
monument in memory of Red Mitchell stands over 5 feet tall, it will sit on an 18
inch slab. It is 40 inches wide and will be engraved and a possible picture will
be inserted. It will be placed where the old snack shack
stood.
Town Officers
Report:
There was a written request from
Tina Freeman for ACO supplies such as, a 4 ft. pole, talon gloves, noose bite
stick, set of muzzles of various sizes. Approximately the total cost including
shipping is $246.84. Mr. Bennett made a motion that the money be taken out of
the budget supplies and it was second by Mr. Hess. Motion made and
carried.
Road
Commissioner:
Elwin Turner wasn’t able to make
the meeting. Jon Willette offered to use his tractor to pull the roller that
belongs to Mr. Bennett but a liability issue exists. Can a town pay loader be
used to tow it? Jon Willette will ask Elwin Turner to contact MMA to see if
leasing is o.k. Work on Deer Hill and Beaver Hill still needs to be done. Bushes
need to be cut down and they should be burned... There is a dead Elm tree on
Ayer Ridge Road on the outside of town road. The limbs can be taken down that
overhang on the road but the truck cannot be cut down.
Planning Board
Report:
Theresa Abbott reported that Bill
Pickford was at the meeting. Both Theresa and Hilery Fleming will meet with the
planning board. Duke Simoneau and possibly a representative from KVKOG will be
at the meeting.
Old
Business:
Mr. Bennett and Mr. Hess went out
to see Greeley Road. They took pictures and showed them at the meeting. It
showed lots of pot holes of which have been patched after the photos were taken.
An attorney stated that the town can spend $30,000.00 and loose the case or
spend $10,000.00 and win. MMA will be contacted to get their opinion. We may end
up having a special meeting and have the people decide. Many people who live on
the Greeley Road and pay taxes are dissatisfied. A special town meeting should
be held.
New
Business:
A. Received an insurance bill from MMA for
$4,726.50.
B. A request for MBNA to sign a release form
from the Freedom Historical Society for Conservation and Historic Grant
programs.
C. MMA Policy Contribution, Mutual Aid
Agreements (MMA) for Disaster Response was signed by Steve Bennett and Wilson
Hess to include the Town of Freedom. Other agreements have been formed between
MMA with Albion, Palermo, Unity and Montville.
D. Mr. Hess glanced over once more the
paycheck warrant (7/4/04) and warrants for a variety of things. Included in that
was the cost for an installment of a Trio program in the amount of $1,828.00,
Mr. Bennett signed the Trio agreement as part of the warrant.
E. Cindy Abbott received a Certificate of
Governmental Accounting.
F. Mr. Hess experimented with the software and
thanked Jon Willette for installing Lotus.
G. Cindy Abbott needs page 3 of the warrant
with the signatures. It is still missing and may have to be
re-issued.
H. Jon Willette requested a selectman to be in
the office on Thursday to open the door so the phone company can do the work and
Jon will install Windows. There is a wire above Steve Bennett’s head. It was
checked out and is o.k. The wire was showing brown.
I. Mr. Hess will go and assess on Friday with
Mr. Bennett.
J. The loader tire is
fixed.
K. Big Red was moved out by Jon Willette and
was cleaned.
L. Theresa Abbott mentioned that the street
lights were working and Betty Sienkiewicz said, "Thanks to Steve
Cross".
A motion was made by Steve Bennett
to close the meeting at 7:37 and second by Wilson Hess. Motion made and
carried.
Respectfully
submitted,
Sallyann
Hadyniak
MINUTES OF THE TOWN OF
FREEDOM SELECTMEN'S MEETING June 29, 2004
Those in attendance were
1st Selectman Steve Bennett, 2nd. Selectman Wilson Hess
and 3rd Selectman Steve Cross was absent due to
illness.
Also present were, Theresa Abbott,
Betty Sienkiewicz, Jay Guber, Elwin Turner, Lendell and Dottie Chase, Jim
Waterman, Wassey and Sallyann Hadyniak, Representative guest speakers Peter M.
Coughlan P.E. Director (DOT) and Eric Kluck. From (DEP).
The gentlemen were there to pass
on information regarding the Salt/Sand Building.
A lengthy discussion was held
which included a question and answer period. Attached you will find a copy from
the Community Services Division regarding the topic of
discussion.
1st. Selectman Steve
Bennett called the meeting to order at 8:13 p.m.
Minutes of the Previous Meeting
Steve Bennett made a motion to
accept the minutes as read and Wilson Hess second.
Selectmen’s
Reports
Mr.
Bennett
A. The Key Bank CD was renewed. Mr. Bennett
stated that Jerry Sullivan reported that a lot of brown and white goods were
picked up. The people on Carey Lane had moved their trash back to their place
and Jerry Sullivan said he would pick it up there.
B. A brief discussion regarding the old snack
shack was held and the Selectmen rescind all offers for the disposal of the
snack shack and it will be given to the Fire Department to be used for storage
and the lawn mower. All property associated with the Freedom Rec. Park and the
Mitchell Field belongs to the town of Freedom. Steve Bennett will call Erna
Keller and he will get in touch with Dave Bennett to make arrangements to take
the shack out from the park.
C. Gene Abbott at Dig Safe changed the date of
training to July 28, 2004. If there is another violation on Goosepecker Ridge
and Smithton Road, a $500.00 fine will be issued. It was said that if the Road
Commissioner, Elwin Turner attended the training maybe they wouldn’t fine us
regarding Goosepecker Ridge. Steve Cross was to make sure that Goosepecker Ridge
is in Freedom. The meeting will be held in Augusta on Wednesday, July 28, 2004
from 8 a.m. -12 p.m. Directions will be given to Elwin Turner as to how to get
there. Steve Bennett said that Dave Bennett and possibly Herb Abbott will attend
also. Steve Bennett gave correspondence to Elwin Turner about road planning etc.
and from Dig Safe which may be useful for the road committee. As of this
evening, Elwin has not contacted anyone to be on the
committee.
D. Jay Guber reported an accident on Waning
Road. The right hand washed out at the edge of the road and created a big ditch.
A car went into the telephone pole due to the washout and ditch. Elwin will take
care of it tomorrow (Wednesday). Steve asked if any of the work regarding the
roads has been done and Elwin replied that Mitchell, Raven, Beaver Ridge, Town
House, Rollins and Wentworth roads have been completed. Also that Mariners is
working on Greeley Road grinding and patching it up.
Correspondence
Steve Bennett read the
correspondence
A. A list of personal property by Roger
Littlefield needs to be dealt with because Roger is no longer leasing some of
the equipment. (This is part of tax accessing)
B. An invitation was received from the Maine
State Housing Authority to attend a meeting on Wednesday, July 7, 2004 at 10
a.m. Wilson Hess asked Jim Waterman if it was important to attend and Jim
replied "no".
C. Our Perc agreement came back and is in the
office.
D. It is noted that a warrant is
missing/misplaced.
E. Timesheets are in the vault and Mr. Hess
checked it out.
F. Remind Elwin Turner that Joe Freeman is 16
and is not allowed to run any kind of town equipment.
G. Gloria Barton is doing the
flagging.
H. The checks were handwritten last week
because the dot printer went down on Friday and Trio couldn’t print them
out.
Fire Chief
Report
A. Earthen Dam…Who is the owner? Tony Fletcher
needs some assurance that we find out who the owner is. It is suggested that the
Town of Freedom take over. There is a possibility the dam inspector will breech
it and drain it. It came from FEMA (Federal) they want to test the dam for
hydraulics’. Once again it would be beneficial for the town to own
it.
B. Wilson Hess stated that he spoke to Joe
Brook in Winterport. About the Frankfort Dam. Mr. Brooks prospective is for the
town to claim ownership.
C. An emergency action plan must be taken
ASAP. Boundary agreements are not a plan for water rites. No legal opinions can
be rendered. Posie controlled the dam (the gate) by elevating the water level.
Maybe a quick claim dam from Frank Sylvia is needed. We need to do a title
search but need to spend money to someone to do that type of
research.
D. Harkins requested to name their access road
Harkins Way. It cannot be "Way" because all we have in Freedom is road and lane.
Road is town roads and lane is private. Therefore it can be named Harkins Lane
and the town will buy a sign.
E. There has been several structure fires
total loss in Knox, Unity and Thorndike.
F. There is a loose fitting on the fire truck
that has to be replaced and fire proof containers. There will be pump
training.
G. Freedom Field Day will be held Saturday,
August 7, 2004.
H. The fire grant was completed and Freedom is
still in the running. So far two towns have been awarded.
I. Dave Bennett (Fire Warden) made a report to
the Forest Ranger.
J. The furnace has been serviced and the
filter nuzzle has been changed. #2 oil is $1.49. Thompson is $1.29 pre
buy.
K. Wilson thanked Jim and Matt for responding
to Steve Cross home. They heard on their radio’s that help was needed there.
Steve fainted twice. He went to see a cardiologist in the afternoon and is
resting fine and doing o.k.
L. Three weeks ago, Jim Waterman went with Jay
Guber to the garage to hold an inspection
New
Business
Leslie Stein applied for a permit
to put a sauna. Clint and Chris Spaulding applied for a building permit for a
house and storage shed.
Jay went to Saco to attend a
seminar and he received from the State Legislator information on new laws
related to building codes. He gave a copy to Steve Bennett. The State Legislator
has adopted a bill that will become effective July 30, 2004. It is not mandatory
for a town to adopt a building code, but most towns do. Jay signed up for a
course in October. Jay donated his expenses of $10.00 for dinner and $3.00 for
tolls. (Expenses)
Steve Bennett asked Jay to present
to the Planning Board that if you adopt any code whatsoever adopt what
legislator has now effective July 30, 2004. International Residential Code must
be voted in by town. (IRC & IBC) International Building
Code.
Old
Business
It was also noted that Jon
Willette did not have a heart problem.
Mr. Hess stated that Carol
Richardson called him to tell him that Mariners was working on the Greeley
Road.
The meeting was adjourned by Steve
Bennett at 9:15 and second by Wilson Hess.
Respectfully submitted,
Sallyann
Hadyniak
MINUTES: SELECTMEN'S
MEETTING'S TOWN OF FREEDOM, JUNE 22, 2004
Selectmen present: Steve Bennett,
Steve Cross, and Wilson Hess
Also present: Wassey and Sallyann
Hadyniak, Jay Guber, Elwin Turner, Betty Sienkiewicz, Theresa Abbott, Pete and
Marion Bowers, and Dottie Chase.
The meeting was opened at
6PM.
Minutes were read and approved
after corrections. Key Bank holds a CD, not a mutual fund. The wording on
Pleasant Street should be resolved, not dissolved.
Elwin Turner, road commissioner
gave a report with the recent accomplishments at the Town Garage. In general
there was a lot of clean-up work done. Cabinets were put up. Containers for
barrels were installed. The loader was worked on. Equipment for the loader was
sorted over and some of the older material was put aside. There is a tire to be
fixed which will be done this week. Equipment related to Dig Safe was painted.
Some unusable materials were discarded. Some of the heavy iron materials will go
to salvage.
Elwin feels that they now can go
on to other projects.
He had obtained some prices from
Denis Jones for road gravel, $6.00 per yard in place and level. Material from
Roger Littlefield would be $4.00 per yard in the pit. After discussion it was
felt that Denis Jones offer would be more cost effective and FEMA has also
inspected his material. FEMA has also given an estimate of 800 yards for all
projects.
There are four roads in particular
that need to be worked on, Smithton, Mitchell, Raven and the Rollins Road. The
first two are of top priority.
Denis Jones would do the work on
them using bank run, as outlined by FEMA, at the cost of $5.00 per yard. The
selectmen requested that Elwin have Denis Jones put in writing the amount,
number of loads, and an estimate for each road after he had personally inspected
them, also noting the length of road needing repair along with the time it would
take to complete the work. Steve Cross concurred with this. When this is done
Elwin would be supervising the work and maintaining a record of number of loads
of gravel and so forth.
Sallyanne Hadyniak spoke regarding
the ditching of Beaver Ridge Road which was done by the town. She wondered why
they went down 800 ft. Elwin said this was necessary to remove the water that
was destroying the road. Beaver Ridge is a private road, but was worked on
because of FEMA as a one-time emergency.
Wilson Hess felt that there were
two issues related to this road, 1. It is a road not maintained by the town and
2. The town had already done some work on it.
Sallyann wondered that if there
were money left over from the FEMA work, why not use some of it on Beaver Ridge.
Wilson Hess felt that we should wait and see about monies left over from FEMA.
Jay Guber gave a report and read a
letter related to the Salt Shed after a representative from the DEP had viewed
it. Eric Clark, a recent appointee, sent paper work related to the salt shed. We
are a Number 3 priority. Currently there are no monies available from the State
for any reimbursement so actually we don’t really need to do any thing right
now. What we could do, however is to cover the material with a tarp to prevent
contamination If the site on Mitchell Road were used we would not be eligible
for any money. The selectmen requested that representatives from DOT and DEP
come to a meeting.
Jay also spoke about the Town
garage and felt it definitely was salvageable. He suggested that they strip out
the frame, add supports and insulate. He also felt that the garage door be
fixed. If 12 feet were added to the front and the same line were kept we could
have two working bays. That is not the case now, so Jay’s recommendation was to
save the Garage and add on. It would even be possible to make one bay larger for
larger trucks. Wilson Hess questioned if we should do this by contract or bid.
Jay felt this should be bid out after some specifications were made. He felt it
would cost us around $50 per square foot. He also felt that the State has a
revolving loan fund with a minimum interest rates for towns that don’t have the
funds. Wilson Hess asked him to see if he could get a name for this fund.
Ken Boulier, an electrician, has
not given an estimate yet for the necessary work at the Town Garage.
Jay also found a huge pile, 1000
plus of tires, behind Skidgells. He will be in touch with them since they need
to be removed.
Steve Bennett read a letter from
the Town of Brewer for a "Call to Arms." They have sent a letter to all
municipalities requesting that they meet and be on record that the State not
spend the new revenues. Wilson Hess took a position of wait and see. Steve
Bennett thinks it will force some action.
A letter from KVOG was read
indicating that there was to be a meeting on Wed in Fairfield. The revolving
loan fund would be one of the issues discussed.
OLD
BUSINESS:
The Key Bank CD is up for a
decision as what to do. A motion was made and seconded that we reinvest for the
four-year term with a step-up plan.
Hazard Waste Collection in
Searsmont was briefly discussed. Cost was unknown and at this time no action was
taken.
Steve Bennett reminded everyone of
the Spring Clean up which will be on June 26th.
Recently a conference call
regarding the Audit was held. All those involved found it helpful. Several of
the suggestions to be put into place are to enter transaction in a timely
fashion on the computer and Cindy is attending a two-day workshop to make better
use of the computer. Wilson Hess also spoke concerning management controls of
the Town monies. Joanne Knowlton will be doing the deposits instead of Cindy.
This would be another form of control suggested. Another goal is to have a
profit and loss statement each month.
MMA Action plan needs to be worked
on. Steve Bennett will take it first and then the others so that some of their
suggestions can be implemented.
Tina Freeman had put in a request
for a variety of supplies. Steve Bennett felt that more information was needed
before it was approved.
The old snack shack will be taken
by the Fire Department. Jim Waterman felt that it could be used for supplies. A
motion was made and seconded in regard to this.
Wilson Hess spoke regarding the
Recreation Committee. He had talked with Bruce Peterson and the memorial is
currently down at the carvers. Bruce is donating the slab for it.
Theresa Abbott spoke on behalf of
the Comprehensive Planning Committee. She has a copy of the Brooks Plan. Also
she has a book on land management. The committee is still looking for members.
Names suggested were Maryanne Hayes, Tim Turner, Eric Weed, Tim Biggs, Bill
Pickford. Dick Kershaw will be appointed.
NEW
BUSINESS:
The road commissioner needs to be
asked when the mowing of the road edges will be done. Also there are bushes on
Greeley RD that need to be cut.
Marriners has not been heard from
and they have until July 15 to do the work.
Theresa Abbott requested that one
of the Selectmen get in touch with CMP regarding the streetlight near her house.
Steve Drake is the contact person there. Steve Bennett will do this.
Wilson Hess has taken in the glass
that covers the wetlands on the tax maps for repair.
FINANCIAL
WARRANTS:
Payroll:
$1,162.58
Accounts Payable $
2,182.52.
These were approved and signed.
However in the future the selectmen would like more information on the ones that
are not usual.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:02
PM.
Respectfully
submitted,
Marion
Bowers
June 15,
2004
Those in attendance were 1st
Selectman Steve Bennett, 2nd Selectman Wilson Hess, and 3rd Selectman Steve
Cross. Also present were, Theresa Abbott, Elwin Turner, Wassey Hadyniak, Tina
Freeman, Dave Bennett and Sallyann Hadyniak.
1st Selectman Steve Bennett called
the meeting to order at 6 p.m.
Minutes of the Previous
Meeting
Corrections to the minutes of the
Selectmen's meeting of June 1, 2004 are as follows:
The date of the minutes to read
June 1, 2004, the spelling of Thelma's last name to Ledden and the time the
meeting was called to order to 6:07 p.m. Key Bank, not Phoenix is the bank that
holds the mutual fund CD with the maturity date of June 17th. 1st. Selectman
Steve Bennett requested that it be added to the minutes that Carol Richardson
has not responded to the request from the Selectmen regarding a signed affidavit
stating that she has none of the Town records or such in her possession.
A
motion was made by 1st. Selectman Steve Bennett to accept the minutes as read
with the corrections and it was second by 2nd Selectman Wilson Hess. All were in
favor.
Correspondence addressed to the
Selectmen was read by Steve Bennett . One letter was received from MMA stating
that they offer health insurance for volunteers if there is anyone interested in
it.
Selectmen's Reports
Mr.
Bennett
A. It was reported that Mr. Hess was able to open the floppy disk
that we have in our possession regarding the Comprehensive Plan that was done in
1991.
B. It was reported that Mr. Guber was not able to make the meeting and
to give a report about the town garage. There was a discussion regarding the
garage doors and that Ken Boulier would contact us regarding the electrical work
in the garage. Jay had spoken to the supplier that installed the original newer
doors and they will send us a quote. During an open discussion, the question
asked was, what is the sense to have two doors. Doors are needed on opposite
ends. A house door should be on the end of the building , shelves taken out etc.
Steve Bennett said the discussion should cease due to the fact that Jay wasn't
there.
C. Theresa Abbott said a large truck ran on her lawn and that Roy
insists the plan will not work. The road plans will be started very soon. A
tanker truck barely makes the corner. Mr., Bennett mentioned that someone
suggested putting a sign up saying "Trucks only". The Pleasant Street issue
should be dissolved according to Steve Bennett. All the corners are bad and need
attention.
D. Mr. Bennett questioned," Does anyone know who puts the minutes
on the computer web site" Due to a misunderstanding, Sallyann Hadyniak was
waiting for Mr. Hess to forward her the minutes to put on the web site and Mr.
Hess thought she already had the minutes. It will be taken care of
ASAP.
Mr. Hess
A. The 2003 Financial
Statements (a.k.a. "Audit") have arrived. Nothing out of the ordinary, but the
audit is "qualified" because the Town had not listed its physical "property "on
the books." The Selectmen and the Treasurer have the opportunity to meet with
the auditor on a conference call Friday morning at 10: AM to review the results.
Next Tuesday we will have public copies of the audit available and comment upon
the results.
B. Cindy has been working with the auditor. A large (24,000)
unreconciled balance from last year (referred to in the Management Letter
accompanying the Audit) has now been reconciled. Mr. Hess Has verified this in a
conversation with the auditor. The error was in the computer records and seems
to be from a previous year. There appears to be more adjustments that need to be
made from even earlier years. Because the auditor is assisting us in these
matters, there are expenses being incurred, including an item in the spending
warrant for tonight.. Mr. Hess believes it is money well spent to get the Town
records accurately on the TRIO system.
C. Sandy Pond Dam #3. We have a
proposal from Professional Surveying and Engineering in Belfast to perform the
registry work for $1,000.00. Tina Freeman, the (Animal Control Officer) is also
a paralegal. She has been researching deeds in the Town's possession and is
willing to try to do the work as far as she can take it. She will, of course,
need to bill for her time. The Selectmen need to take a position on which way to
for now.
D. Maine Municipal Association grants were approved $1156.00,
providing equipment for the Fire Department and Town Garage. MMA funds will
reimburse 2/3 of the cost. Our insurance had recommended all these items, so the
assistance of the MMA grant is much appreciated. Acquired were:
Fire Dept. -
- flammable liquid storage cabinet
Town Garage - - flammable liquid storage
cabinet, approved fuel safety cans, spill containment devices for oil drums and
16 traffic cones with reflective markings for Town vehicles.
Our thanks go
out to Mr. Hess and James Waterman for working toward getting this
grant.
Mr. Steve Cross
Mr. Cross had
nothing to report at this time.
Paralegal Tina Freeman gave a
report regarding the Deeds that she checked out that she received from the bank
and Cindy Abbott. The deed is needed to determine who owns the Sandy Pond Dam #3
but it is lost. She cannot find anything that refers to that property. Since she
does not have a book or page number, she would be flying blind and it would cost
the town a fortune
The state wants the owner to be in a plan with the state.
The land was formally owned by Town of Freedom. Sheiker property and Grasse
deeds are public record and have been checked out. Sheikers earliest binder of
records going back 100 years. Tina needs the name of the roads that were known
back then and hoped to find a deed that referenced it. More then likely it would
have to be done by the abutters now or formally owned by the Town of Freedom.
McFarland and Ralph Clemnon owned property around the dam. Freedom Lumber always
took care of it. Theodore Thompson owned the mill known as Freedom Lumber
company (wood mill) according to Steve Cross. Next one was Banton Bros. Tina
requested the deed of Helen and Bruce Ray. They have nothing to do with it. It's
between the town, Grasse and Sheiker. Mr. Hess stated that it's a matter of
water rights. Rod Luhn owns the house across from the mill and land on both
sides so he might have the rights to it. There may be a boundry agreement but
the water rights should be checked out. Mr. Hess questioned if both parties will
agree.
Mr. Bennett feels ownership of the land (dam) is in the best interest
of the town. Mr. Hess stated that Tina will volunteer to do the work but she
should be compensated for her work.
Town Officer's Report-Road
Commissioner
Elwin
Turner
A. Mr. Turner was asked to attend tonight's meeting to discuss the
garage and the roads. 2/3 of the garage can only be insulated. By insulating the
whole garage, snow will stay on the roof and it will not be able to handle a
heavy load. Dave Bennett asked if it were necessary to heat the building because
there isn't any water in there. The answer was no. Mr. Turner was asked when he
was going to get started on the road work. Sallyann Hadyniak told the Selectmen
that David Pottle has already put down dirt on the portion of Beaver Ridge that
the town was going to finish with the finishing coat for 200 feet. They were not
aware of this and Mr. Turner said he would take a ride up there to see what has
been done by Mr. Pottle. We have already received the FEMA Grant money and the
work must be completed. Mr. Turner is waiting for school to be over. He will get
the dirt under the tar and feels a grader that is on all rubber wheels will do a
good job underneath pavement. Mr. Bennett questioned how long it would take to
do the FEMA work and Mr. Turner replied about one month. Mr. Hess said he has
gotten the most complaints about the Smithton Road. There are many pot holes,
driveways are plugged and ditches. Mr. Turner said that they weren't able to
complete the work on the road because the town ran out of money and they were by
Nelson's at the time. He also stated that you can't put gravel on top of
slop
Mr. Bennett said he had the most complaints about Mitchell Road. Mr.
Bennett also said that the town roads need to be maintained. Mr. Turner replied
that there was a grader on every road this past spring. What is needed is a
crew! All that we have now is Clint Spaulding. Mr. Turner will be looking for
helpers and will ask Jay Spaulding because he ran a loader and backhoe. Warren
Spaulding does not want to be involved. Jay really isn't interested but Mr.
Turner will ask him. Clint is still available. The gentlemen that purchased the
old fire truck said he would give 300 yards of gravel or an estimate and has not
come through with anything. Of course it wasn't in writing. Mr. Turner said he
will check on gravel prices on Friday. He must have quality gravel for FEMA. He
mentioned that he may get the gravel from Dennis. He also said that any money
left from FEMA can be used on any roads. Mr. Bennett stated that if the roads
are not completed, the $27,000.00 from FEMA must be returned.
Mr. Turner will
advertise for help by putting signs in Freedom General Store.
B Mr. Bennett
questioned and discussed the safety violation at the town garage.
The 8 X 10
Snack Shack which is 15 feet high is not worth moving . It was mentioned that it
be used for salvage. Dave Bennett will bring it up at the Fire Meeting. Mr.
Bennett made a motion to let the Fire Department decide what to do with it,
therefore rescinding all other offers. It can be used for storage or fire
training. Tina Freeman will talk to her husband and get back to the Selectmen no
later then Thursday.
MMA wants things to be done with oil etc. There is some
containment for this purpose. It was suggested that the 88 be parked outside and
things put in one area. A question came up about the welding machine. Is it
worth salvaging? Dave Bennett and Elwin Turner discussed this and Mr. Bennett
said to render it inoperative immediately.
Dave Bennett said he will check to
see if it is worth keeping but it must be checked by an electrician. Tanks are
empty. Dave Bennett will be there with a crew to clean up/ it was reported that
combust ional items were leaning against the furnace. Nelson moved them all and
discarded unwanted items. The garage is in need of a good
clean-up.
C. Truck Maintanance
There are
no records of truck maintanance to be found. Mr. Turner said records were kept
in the Town Office by Red Mitchell. According to MMA a Fleet Maintenance Program
is required. Dave Bennett requested the 2000 and the 97 GMC Needs Manual. There
isn't any proof of anything being done on the vehicles. Tony Emerson serviced
the trucks before this winter. The Road Commissioner (Elwin Turner) need to give
permission for the truck to be maintained.. The town wants record of personal
files. The bed of all three trucks is rusting, salt is caked up on 1/8 in. of
steel for it was never power washed. Dave will help clean up the trucks and Jim
Waterman will take care of the fire extinguishers. They will be filled and
inspected. The town is relying on safe equipment and we are relying on the Road
Commission Elwin turner. Dennis Jones is in Unity.
D. Road Appointments
David
Bennett and Herb Abbott were appointed to be on the road committee. A motion was
made by Wilson Hess to accept and second by Steve Bennett. All were in
favor.
Animal Control Officer
Tina
Freeman wants money for equipment that she needs as ACO. Right now she is using
gardening gloves, a stick and her own dog leash.
She requested a bite stick,
mace, gauntlet gloves, bite protection, and noose pull (rabies), four Rubbermaid
containers to store or transport thick bleach decontamination glove, muzzles,
and ACC leads.
Jeff and Monica Holmes have a pet bull that is kept off the
leash and Tina has had to deal with that. He runs loose and the neighbors
complained . Mrs. Reynolds complained about barking dogs. The barking dog turned
out to be a big pup that belonged to the Spencer's. The State Police called
about abandond4d rabbit on Pete Miller property. Tina wants reimbursement for
car repairs. She allows them in her car because the kennel makes dogs ugly. She
also states she isn't getting enough of pay. She gets paid 9.02 per hour and 23
cents a mile. She stated that Carol Richardson said she would get and increased
hourly wage of 10.50 and an increase in mileage after she got certified. She
didn't ask for a raise sooner because she said she wouldn't feel comfortable.
This will be something to think about to put on the warrant for next year.
According to the state, the Selectmen should check with MMA and see how much
liability is involved. They will give Tina an answer next week to see how much
and where the money will come from for the supplies.
Steve Bennett asked Sallyann
Hadyniak to call Jeff and Stacey Keating to see if they would be interested in
being on the Comprehensive Planning Board.
Old
Business
Steve Bennett read the Tribute for
Red Mitchell's monument and it was accepted as read by Wilson Hess, second by
Steve Bennett and all were in favor. It reads as follows:
Tribute
In
Memory of Harold "Red" Mitchell
For outstanding dedication to the Town of
Freedom as a selectman, road commissioner and friend to all. Freedom Little
League and the children who played the game through the years.
Thanks for the
Memories Red!
Personal Bio. Information
Born 8/22/10
Avid hunter,
sportsman, master Maine guide, Minor League baseball
player.
New
Business
Gerald Nelson
owes back taxes in the amount $1,000.00. Wilson Hess made a motion to authorize
the Tax Collector to pursue legal action against him. Second by Steve Cross and
all were in favor.
The CD (?) is suppose to roll
over…It will be put on Terminal Hold.
Building Code works in Saco.
Tuition is $75.00 for a member. Jay Guber is and requesting 2 copies of
residential code books. $90.00 will come out of the training account. Thorton
Academy
A motion was made to accept by Wilson Hess and second by Steve Cross.
All were in favor.
The bill for the audit came to $26.00- plus additional
work for $400.00.
Steve Bennett made a motion to
close the meeting at 9:10 p.m. All were in favor.
Respectfully
submitted,
Sallyann
Hadyniak
No Selectmen’s Meeting on
June 8, 2004 Due To Election
MINUTES:
SELECTMEN'S MEETING, TOWN OF FREEDOM
June 1,
2004
Selectmen present: Steve Bennett,
Steve Cross and Wilson Hess.
Also present: Betty Sienkiewiecz, Theresa
Abbott, Sallyann Hadyniak, Thelma Ledden, Pete and Marion Bowers, Dottie Chase,
Jay Guber, and Audrey Williams.
The Selectmen's meeting was opened
at 7:07 PM.
Minutes of the last meeting were
read and corrections made and then approved. Bruce Johnson should have been
Bruce Peterson. Tree group corrected to tree growth. Sallyann Hadyniak's name
was misspelled.
Steve Bennett felt that the town
garage and salt shed should also include equipment as well. Jay Guber felt that
this should be part of Public Works, which would include town roads and
equipment. However the group will look into the equipment situation.
Steve Bennett stated that the
Hearing had been for discussion only. If action were to be
taken it would
need to be posted.
SELECTMEN'S
REPORT:
Wilson Hess spoke regarding the
budget. There was good and bad news. There was no baseline for March 2004. A
monthly budget report needs to be achieved, as this was one of the first issues
the auditors recommended. A draft of financial information was handed out.
The Historical Grant request has been sent in. If approved, the rebinding of
the Town Clerk's book of 1819 would be done. It will cost $565 to do that. In
July we should know about the grant.
Steve Bennett has received a
signed affidavit from Francis King stating that he has none of the Town records
or such in his possession.
Phoenix, a mutual fund company, has a CD with a
maturity date of June 17th. Currently there is $10,255 in this account. Steve
Bennett will follow up on this. .
Correspondence from a software company was
given to Wilson Hess.
Steve Cross was unable to attend the meeting in Waldo.
Steve Bennett has been in touch a with the MMA representative regarding the
car accident off Sibley Road. She felt the town had no liability and will defend
us.
Hilary Fleming will chair the Comprehensive Planning Board until the
first organizational meeting according to Steve Bennett.
He will also attend
the Planning Board tomorrow night to present the Comprehensive Plan to them and
encourage their participation. He will present the three goals of the group.
Also he will encourage them over the next year to do some in depth research on
the discontinued roads, some dating back according to Steve Cross to 1921.
Lastly the need for Ordinances for the town is greatly needed.
The MMA
Action Plan recommendation has been received. A report from us is due back
within thirty days.
A question regarding road maintance was asked of Steve
Bennett. Wilson Hess stated that road patching was done three weeks ago. The
Road Commissioner is back. The work related to the FEMA grant needs to be done
by the first week of August. Marriners Paving should be done by July.
The Road Committee needs to be
formed. Jay Guber suggested that Herb Abbott be asked; other suggestions were
Clayton Larabbee, Denis Jones, Warren Spaulding, Harold Greeley and Fred
Overlock. Steve Bennett will call and see if he can get a group together.
TOWN OFFICER'S
REPORTS:
Jay Guber had contacted Michael
Shafer who does surveying and engineering work. He was referred to Wilson Hess.
Tina Freeman, a paralegal, was asked by Wilson Hess to attend a meeting with him
and Michael Shafer and a quick walk through the area related to the earthen dam.
SALT SHED AND
GARAGE:
Jay Guber, a
state certified code enforcement officer for building standards inspected the
garage today and found a large number of major problems.
1. Front supports
are in desperate need of attention
2. Need for an overhead garage
door.
3. Electrical switch box inadequate
4. Meter is off the building
5. No safety storage for flammable material
6. Poor lighting
7.
Heating problem, no insulation in roof
8. No exhaust fans
9. Center
supports are off set from carrying beams
10. 2X8 roof rafters
11. No
bathroom
12. No exit signs
13. Weather stripping being torn off
14.
Combustibles, and flammables next to furnace
15. Oil leaking out of floor
drain.
Plus other defects not listed here.
His recommendation was that
we fix the garage. It has a good foundation. The first thing that he would like
done is for the Fire Chief to inspect the building. With authorization from the
Selectmen, he will contact the Fire Chief. The authorization was given. Wilson
Hess wondered if we wouldn't be better off starting from scratch. Jay Guber
thought it would take around $40,000 to repair the garage.
Several years ago
several carpenters who felt that it was repairable looked at it. The carpenter,
the road commissioner planned on doing the work failed to do the job.
The
old snack shack will be a temporary help for storage of some of the materials.
Jay Guber felt that if the Salt and Sand Shed were not there, there would be
room for another larger bay. The current location is good for the garage but not
the salt and sand.
He has an appointment on June 2nd with Jim Cassidy from
the DEP for help and direction concerning the current location of the salt and
sand shed. It is located near an aquifer along with a stream and private wells.
The old dumpsite is a possibility to build on or perhaps the land across the
street from it owned by D. Clark. Currently there is $68,000 in the Salt Shed
Fund. The Salt Shed was mandated in the early 1990's. Grant money at this point
is probably not available.
Steve Bennett stated that at this time liquid
brine is being used.
Also of concern in the area is an old water tank near
the Town Garage. Whose property it is on is another question.
OLD BUSINESS:
In relationship to the MMA Action Plan
listing numerous liabilities Wilson Hess made
a motion that the selectmen
instruct the road commissioner to:
1.Immediately.remove oil barrels from the
vicinity of the welding equipment and remove and discard the electrical leads to
the welding leads. Schedule an inspection of the welding leads and then staff
instruction from the gas supplier.
2.To contact Waldo Electric or other
suitable electrician for immediate evaluation of town garage electrical service.
Until such time as this has passed inspection it shall not be used.
3.That
the Selectmen direct one or more persons to install an egress door on side of
the garage at a location to be approved by the Town Enforcement Officer.
The
motion was seconded and approved.
NEW BUSINESS:
Steve Bennett received a phone call to
see if the Town was interested in participating in a Household Hazard Waste Plan
in July. This would be at the Waldo Town Office. There is an effort to involve
more towns in Waldo County. There would be a cost to the town. More information
is needed.
Cindy mentioned shortly prior to the meeting that Gerald {Bubba}
Nelson was in arrears of more than a $1000 for personal property taxes. More
information will be obtained to discuss at the next meeting.
FINANCIAL
WARRANTS:
Payroll:
$661.17
Accounts Payable: $2899.52
The above warrants were signed.
The meeting was adjourned at
8:55PM.
Respectfully
submitted,
Marion
Bowers
MINUTES: SELECTMEN’S
MEETING, TOWN OF FREEDOM, MAY 25, 2004
Selectmen present: Steve Bennett,
Wilson Hess, and Steve Cross.
Also present: Betty Sienkiewicz,
Theresa Abbott, Sallyann Hadyniak, Jay Guber, Pete Bowers, Catherine Gonzalas
and Marion Bowers
Steve Bennett opened the meeting
at 6PM.
The minutes of the last meeting
were read with minor corrections. The corrections were mainly in the correct
spelling of names, Mark Letourneau, Jay Guber. KVGog is actually Kennebec Valley
Council of Government, or KVCOG. The letter from Jay Guber was not attached to
the minutes as stated. Under "A" of the Selectmen’s report, it should read The
Recreation Committee need to get out the set of by-laws instead of the
Selectmen.
Minutes were corrected and
approved.
SELECTMEN’S
REPORTS:
Assessing report by Steve Bennett:
Sixty of five hundred and thirty nine parcels were viewed. Two new houses were
found, John Clark and David Leyland. Also other taxable property was found.
Friday, May 28th the selectmen will meet to do more assessing.
Wilson Hess spoke re: Cama
software for Lotus. He will have a report tomorrow.
Steve Bennett has received a FAX
from Brantner Thibodeau regarding the town a audit. The Town verifying all
requested information has sent a letter. Recommendations will be forth coming
after the letter has been received.
Wilson Hess will have a meeting
next week regarding the jail, otherwise known as the Waldo County Corrections
Committee. At this point it looks like eighteen million dollars is unrealistic
price wise. Currently there is not enough room and we are spending one hundred
and fifty thousand dollars in rent to other facilities.
It appears there will be another
referendum with more cost cutting in the future.
Wilson Hess also stated that the
P.E.R.C. contract has been completed.
The Historic grant will be in by
the June dateline. There should be enough money to do the 1819 Town Clerk’s Book
plus some money for the deputy clerk.
Steve Cross will be attending a
meeting in Waldo on May 29th regarding hot toping and roads.
{Indefinite time of 6PM or 7PM}.
TOWN OFFICER’S
RPORT:
Jay Guber on May 12th
sent a letter to Dave Allen of the DOT related to signs lowering the speed limit
at either end of town on Route137 as well as to do a study lowering the speed.
As of the present he has not received a response.
Building Permits as of 5/11/04 are
as follows:
Robert and Georgia Richardson of
57 Davis Rd.for a mobile home and shed.
Tim and Tammy Turner of 36 Bryant
Rd for a 20X 40 pool, deck and porch.
Charles Amy and Linda Clark of 174
for a retail store 24X 32. This store will sell arts and crafts type materials.
A question was raised as to parking ordinances, Freedom has none related to this
matter.
Roland and Angela Robitaille III
have a trailer which was to be moved by June 1, but because of the wet weather
they may need to have to have their time extended. Currently it is being used
for storage only.
On Greeley Rd a structure was
started at an unknown time, Jay Guber was not CEO at the time. It is unknown if
they had a permit. Steve Cross felt that it was to have been a garage.
A stick building near Judy
Turner’s has collapsed.
Jay Guber became The CEO in March
of 2003. It was suggested that he go to the Planning Board with some of his
suggestions.
TOWN BOARD
REPORTS:
Recreation Committee: Steve
Bennett spoke with Erna Keller and stated that the bylaws need work. Currently
there is no set number to represent them and he suggested a three-year rotation.
They have been busy with games about every other night.
All barrels at the Field were to
be removed and replaced with a dumpster. There is still one barrel on the
grounds. The area is still in need of being cleaned up.
The Red Mitchell monument has
raised more than six hundred dollars. Two hundred dollars are needed as a
deposit for the stone. Bruce Johnson estimated that there is still one thousand
dollars to be raised which would be for carving on the stone and plants.
Any donations are payable to the
Freedom Boosters Red Mitchell Fund.
Wilson Hess brought up the issue
of the ledge. That area needs to be made more attractive and safer. Bruce
Johnson felt that he would need to have a loader and a backhoe for this work.
OLD
BUSINESS:
Steve Bennett has finalized plans
for spring clean up with Jerry Sullivan to be June 26th. This will be
for all goods, brown and white. Articles should be curbside by 7AM. Articles
must have freon removed. Tires in the past were $2.00.
Steve Bennett also stated that in
Troy they charge $10.00 for every appliance plus those with freon an additional
$15.00. Wilson Hess felt that we should not have the additional charge for those
without freon. A motion was made and seconded to send out reminder cards for the
June 26th pickup by Sullivan’s. Sallyann Hadyniak will post a notice
regarding this at the usual places.
Wilson Hess and Steve Bennett
called attention to the DOT schematic on the wall related to Pleasant Street and
High Street intersection. There will still be a hearing on it June
1st. Pete Bowers wondered if this was still necessary. Others felt
that the hearing was still needed.
Steve Bennett had been notified
that last summer someone in a white camper had lived at the town landing. He
inspected the area and there is no one there at the present. There was a
question of having a dumpster at that area, but it was felt that two barrels
with covers would be sufficient.
NEW
BUSINESS:
Steve Bennett expressed the need
for a Comprehensive Planning Committee. Work on this has been done in the past
and turned down by the town. He felt it was time to begin to make appointments
to this committee.
Wilson Hess felt that there needed
to be a structure to the plan, 1.Look at how we preserve open space, 2. Special
role of the village and 3. The role of the lake. Steve Bennett agreed with
Wilson on this plan. A motion was made and seconded to appoint Theresa Abbott,
Hillary Fleming, Bruce Peterson, Betty Sienkiewicz and Sallyann Haydniak to form
a Comprehensive Committee to work with the Planning Board and the Code
Enforcement Officer and Selectmen. They are to report back to the Selectmen
before the end of July with work plans. The Selectmen can add additional
volunteers. Special interest will be in 1. preserving the open space, 2. special
role of the village and 3. role of the lake.
There was much discussion centered
on the past attempt to create a Comprehensive Plan. A lot of work went into this
with meetings one to two times a week over the period of about a year. In the
past no planning board members were involved.
Steve Bennett felt that this might
be a good time to look at some ordinances; Freedom has none. Jay Guber stated
that the town has to vote on the ordinances.
Several surrounding towns such as
Unity, Albion and Brooks have them. Also when applying for grants they are a
plus.
Jay Guber brought up the condition
of the garage and the salt shed. The garage is in desperate need of repair. It
was suggested in the early 90’s that a salt shed be built. The present location
is not a good location because of the stream and the nearness of the Spaulding
well. The old dumpsite on Mitchell Rd was suggested as a site for both, but
there was a lot of vandalism there in the past according to Steve Cross. The
salt shed might be all right there, but not the garage. A motion was made and
seconded to appoint a committee to look in to the salt shed and garage
situation. Appointed were Jay Guber, Tim Turner, and Dave Bennett. They are to
make their recommendations to the Selectmen.
John Carroll of the Maine Revenue
Service will be at the town office June 4th for three to five hours
to go over the commitment books of 2002 and 2003. Also he will examine all real
estate transfers, property record cards, and the tree
growth.
Steve Bennett produced a letter
from the Northeastern Insurance Company related to an accident on Oct 26.
Someone unfamiliar with the territory drove down Sibley Rd, did not stop, but
skidded across the road and acquired damage to the front-end of her car. There
was no stop sign at the end of Sibley Road. Debbie from the MMA has been
contacted.
Steve Bennett had an application
for a concealed weapon for Cyril Perry questioning as to any reason he should
not be granted one. This was from the State Police. It was agreed that no one
knew of a good reason why this should not be granted.
Sandy Pond #3 which has an earthen
dam which needs to have corrective action taken per Emergency Management. The
immediate issue is ownership of the dyke. It is a possibility that the town owns
one side of the shore and Prentice Grassi and Pauline Skyka owns the other. The
Town needs ownership of record before proceeding. Wilson Hess suggested that we
engage in a title search to determine the rightful owner. Jay Guber recommended
we hire some one who is a certified to do title research and boundaries on that
land and also abutting land ownership.
Steve Bennett suggested a
surveyor, the typical cost around $ 55.00. This would be less than a title
attorney. Also suggested by Jay Guber was to put it out for bid for someone to
check it out through the registry of deeds.
Wilson Hess felt that if the town
owned it, there were obligations and upkeep that went with ownership. If owned
by a citizen, they would be responsible.
Presently the condition of the dam
is a liability. Contacting the Army Corp of Engineers was not
advisable.
It was finally decided to have Jay
Guber contact a surveyor he has worked with previously and then he will get back
in touch with the Selectmen.
A CD is up for renewal June
26th. This is related to the Smithton Cemetary. The town has
trusteeship of it. Its current value is $3,396.95. It was suggested that some of
it be drawn down for working capital. Steve Bennett will discuss this with the
bank.
Wilson Hess suggested that the
time of the Selectmen’s meeting begin at 7Pm during the summer. This will be
considered.
Wilson Hess also brought up the
Stevens Road and found at the "Y" it was better to turn left if you want to go
to the right. There was much better visibility.
FINANCIAL
WARRANTS:
Payroll warrants of $633.17 and
accounts payable of $728.08 were signed.
OPEN
SESSION:
Steve Bennett discussed the
Freedom Field with Bruce Peterson. He feels there is a lot of potential there
and will bring plans to the Planning and Recreational Committees as well as the
Selectmen.
Jay Guber said that the DEP had
already looked at the area in the past.
Steve Cross had a question related
to the oldest truck as to whether it is usable for which there was no answer. He
was advised to check with the road commissioner. . He also had had a call
related to a skunk. The Town doesn’t deal with wild animals.
Tina Freeman will take the old
snack shack and see that it is moved.
The meeting adjourned at 8 PM.
Respectfully
submitted,
Marion Bowers
Minutes of the Town of
Freedom Selectmen’s Meeting May 18, 2004
Those in attendance were
1st Selectman Steve Bennett, 2nd Selectman Wilson Hess,
and 3rd Selectman Steve Cross. Also present were, Betty Sienkiewicz, Theresa
Abbott, Thelma Ledden, Sallyann Hadyniak, Marbel Hutchins, Basil Barns and Road
Commissioner, Elwin Turner.
1st Selectman Steve
Bennett opened the meeting at 6:01 p.m.
Minutes of the Previous
Meeting:
Corrections to the minutes of the
Selectmen’s meeting of May 11, 2004 are as follows:
Stricken from the minutes was
Culverts on High and Route 137 would be installed.
Steve Bennett requested that
Wagner place be interpreted as Wagner driveway.
June 26th has been
finalized as the date for the brown and white pickup. Dave Allen will send a
copy of some DOT working drawings. Steve Bennett questioned Mr. Hess if he ever
received them and Mr. Hess stated no!
There were no other corrections.
Motion made by Steve Bennett, second by Wilson Hess. All were in
favor.
Selectman’s
Reports:
Mr. Bennett
A. Town trucks and loader have
been washed by Clint Spaulding and Herb Abbott. Mr. Hess stated that a paint job
would be useful. Elwin Turner stated that Jon Willette has a sprayer and that
the trucks should be sanded first. Mark Letaneou has a sand blaster; Mr. Hess
suggested getting cold patch. Elwin Turner stated that there wasn’t any sand in
it only pebbles, so Elwin will check with Pike in
Fairfield.
B. Bill Stewart of Browns
Restoration Archives gave an estimate of $2,300.00 that can be worked into
getting a historic collections grant at a meeting in order to make up a budget
amount to have the 1816 historic book restored. It was noted that there was
frost each month in the year of 1816!
C. It was brought to Mr. Bennett’s
attention that signs should be posted at the Freedom Rec. Park for safety
issues. The Rec. Comm. will send away to have them made up. The ditch was opened
and the electric line was laid and the ditch was filled in by the town loader.
Erna also requested that Cindy Abbott to arrange for a dumpster to be placed by
the field. Also trash cans should be at the boat landing, but Elwin Turner asked
"Who will lift the trash cans"? Dumpsters were used but people decided to dump
their stuff into the dumpsters which is not what they are to be used for. It was
also suggested that the boat landing should be posted. Betty Sienkiewicz stated
that a camper has been parked down there and that in the past Francis King would
check out the landing several times a week. Erna will look into getting the
dumpsters and get rid of the barrels. A lot of work was done by the volunteers
of the Rec. Comm. this past spring and it looks great. Mr. Hess stated that they
have the money in the budget to do it.
Mr. Hess
A. It was brought to the attention of Mr. Hess
that Stevens Road and Rt. 137 is a dangerous spot. We were hoping that DOT would
do something about it but according to a DOT representative, he said it’s a
Freedom road. And to do what you want with it. So, do we close the Y; use the
right and not the left side of the Y? Elwin was asked if he ever drives the road
with the school bus and he said no, but Edie does. It would be difficult to
close one side of the Y because the bus still needs to go on that road. Steve
Cross agreed with Steve Bennett and also stated that there would be better
vision. Mr. Hess brought it up because he was the one that was approached by
some. It was decided that the road committee will look into it.
B. Mr. Hess had a talk with Cindy Abbott about
the first quarter trial balance. Cindy will work with Mr. Hess in order to have
it at the end of the month.
C. Mr. Hess questioned if mailings should be
sent out regarding the white and brown good door to door pickup. Mr. Bennett
called Jerry Sullivan and he keeps saying the 26th is fine but has
not told Mr. Bennett how much the cost for Freon, tires, appliances, etc. will
cost. We need to get this information in order to put it on the mailing cards so
the people will know how much it will cost.
D. Mr. Hess read a letter from Jay Goober to
the Town of Freedom regarding sub-divisions. The letter will be attached to
these minutes.
Mr. Steve
Cross
Mr. Cross had nothing to report
except that there were a few road issues and he contacted Elwin Turner and
discussed them on the telephone.
Road Commissioner Elwin
Turner:
Clint Spaulding will not drive the
truck because he cannot afford the insurance. Elwin will check the price of
excavator. Jamie Marple has a backhoe and does work around the area and will
check the how much he charges per hour for and excavator to see if it’s the same
price as a backhoe. Others are Clayton Larrabbee, Jones and Emerson. The board
feels that the townspeople should be on the road committee. Dave Bennett knows
about shop welding and is willing to learn by being on the road committee. The
Town of Freedom will be looking for volunteers to look at the roads, garage and
road plan. Mr. Fox put in a bid for the firetruck and received it. Mr. Fox
stated that if he wins the bid on the fire truck, he would donate 300 yards of
winter sand or gravel. Elwin will volunteer to see Mr. Fox and question him
about it. John Penny in Knox works for him. Roads should be graded! There is a
rental machine that you can hook on a bucket dump into it and will hold the
gravel. It hooks onto a grader or loader. Cy Reynolds is getting anxious because
a culvert (Stevens Road) has not been put in it’s place.
We need volunteers to work and
learn.
Selectmen’s
Reports:
A. The Selectmen need to get out the set of
by-laws. They are in the Selectmen’s office and they are needed in order to
create a set of board members. It would be a good idea to stagger the
officers.
B. The garbage on Carey Lane is still there.
Only one side of the garbage was taken away. Hopefully it will all be gone by
next Thursday.
Correspondence:
A. Steve Bennett met with the planning board.
KVKog turned over the comprehensive plan of years ago on disk and will give it
to the secretary together with the full plans that both Theresa Abbott and Betty
Sienkiewicz have.
B. The assessing program on CD was received
this afternoon. The total cost for it is $10.00
C. Steve Bennett passed information out
regarding the School District. The state will be paying 100% for the new school
and will not come out of the taxpayers providing it will be built on the
abutting site. Mr. Bennett also spoke about the Future
MSAD3.
D. Gary Fuller retired from DOT and is
offering his services of which he has 38 years of
experience.
E. List of Transfers-Steve Bennett, Wilson
Hess and Steve Cross will meet on Saturday at 9:30 to go and look at buildings
around town to see if there are any changes.
F. An application was received for work zone
safety signs and materials. The approximate cost for each package is $1,500.00
and the local share (match) will be approximately $375.00 (25% of the total cost
per package). The market value of the package is approximately $3,000.00 if our
town were to purchase these items directly. In order to apply, the application
must be postmarked by June 11, 2004 and sent to the Maine Local Roads Center.
(DOT)
Old
Business:
A motion was made by Wilson Hess
that the 1st. Selectman, Steve Bennett be authorized to sign the
Charter Municipality Waste Disposal Agreement with the Penobscot Energy Recovery
Company and the Schedule E, Agreement with the Municipal Review Committee, Inc.
Regarding Acceptance of the MRC Bylaws and the Payment of Performance Credits
and any other documents needed to execute these
agreements.
New
Business:
None
Open
Session:
A. Basil Barns and Marbal Hutchins requested
that a culvert be placed on Beaver Ridge Road where the open field is. He needs
to go in there and spread the manure before the grass gets too tall. He would
like to have it done within the week. He has a 16-18 inch culvert that he is
willing to supply the town with in order for them to place it there. The board
of Selectmen will authorize Elwin Turner, Road Commissioner to do the work and
Basil will contact Elwin. All were in favor!
B. Betty Sienkiewicz is still waiting for an
assessment/abatement regarding her trailer on Rt 137. The property measures 200
x 200.
C. Sallyann still waiting for the password for
the minutes to be put onto the computer. Wilson Hess has contacted Francis King
but has not heard back from him.
The meeting was adjourned by Steve
Bennett at 7:30. All were in favor.
Respectfully
submitted,
Sallyann
Hadyniak
Tuesday, May 11,
2004
The regular Selectmen’s meeting
was cancelled due to having an
Open discussion regarding Pleasant
Street.
MINUTES: SELECTMEN'S MEETING,
TOWN OF FREEDOM
May 4,
2004
Selectmen present: Steve Bennett,
Steve Cross, and Wilson Hess.
Also present: Theresa Abbott, Betty
Sienkiewicz, Sallyann Hadyniak, Wassey Hadyniak, Thelma Ludden, Pete
Bowers,
Floyd Blaisdell, and Marion Bowers
Meeting was opened at 6PM by Steve
Bennett. Minutes were available to be read.
Wilson Hess requested that a
correction be made in the minutes of April 13, 2004 and the minutes of May 4th.
It was moved and seconded that the minutes of April 13 should be changed to
read, "Minutes of April 13th should be changed to read, Risk Management People
from MMA stated that it may not be a safe liability for volunteers to do the
work.
Corrections in the minutes were
made in the minutes of May 4, 2004.
Mr. Turner did not attend the sand and
salt meeting.
Steve Bennett, not Steve Cross, will respond to the
pre-application preservation grant.
Mark Philbrook has been on the list for a
septic grant since 2003. Stanley McDonald an even longer length of time. Steve
Bennett, not Wilson Hess, said that a new application needs to be made out this
year.
Wilson Hess, not Mr. Wilson completed the Boundary Survey.
The
Selectmen would like to have a trial balance for the first quarter that ends the
end of May.
Mr. Hess, not Mike Turner, has not contacted Jay Guber yet on
Mr. Turner's behalf. Planning Board minutes were given to Mike Turner during the
meeting. .
The minutes were accepted with these
corrections.
OLD BUSINESS:
Plumbing inspector: Steve Bennett spoke
with the town clerk in Unity regarding Donald Harriman. They have been satisfied
with the relationship.
He also spoke with Donald Harriman who stated he
would accept the same deal as last year which would be for 75% of the fees
collected, 25 % goes to the state for DHS: plus he wants a stipend of $500 in
addition. This is for travel, phone calls, letters and checking on septic
systems that are not working. There was much discussion particularly related to
the $500. Steve Cross had talked to someone in Morrill who felt we would be
getting a good deal, as they have to pay a $1000 stipend. Wilson Hess, in
reviewing the figures from last year, found that we were paying out more than we
were receiving. The Town has not voted to raise money for the Plumbing
inspector. A warrant for a town meeting related to the stipend of $500 was
suggested by Steve Bennett. Steve Cross also felt this was a possibility and to
pass over it if not needed. In discussing the situation, a motion was made by
Steve Bennett. Wilson Hess felt that Donald Harriman had missed the date
regarding this $500 stipend and that this discussion should have taken place
four months ago, not now. The motion did not pass. Steve Bennett will call
Donald Harriman to further discuss the situation.
Steve Bennett spoke with Tom Odle
regarding Mr.Philbrick's request for a septic system. The request had to have
been in by Jan 31, 04. The current system is to close to a neighbor's well. He
will also check into the septic system for Stanley McDonald as well. He will
check with Cindy as well as getting in touch with Richard Green.
Wilson Hess presented a
certificate of appreciation to the cub scouts and their leaders for the outside
work. This was signed by the three selectmen.
Steve Bennett produced a copy of a
town report from 1956, article 34, in relationship to Rollins Road. This was one
of five roads that were discontinued as town roads. Rollins Rd. is a town road
as far as the Wagner Driveway. The closed roads could stay open as a public way,
but would not be maintained by the town.
Wilson Hess stated that the grant
from the Maine Library Of Geographic Information has been submitted. The grant
request is for $1,617, the town's contribution would be $1078. Later this month
we should know the results.
Also the MMA Risk Management Grant has been
written as two grants, not one. Both have been submitted.
Pleasant Street Hearing by the
selectmen will be at a regular meeting on June 1, 04. This is in relationship to
whether Pleasant Street should be one way or two ways. All views will be heard.
Wilson Hess felt it would be wise to obtain advice from the appropriate people,
such as a safety engineer at DOT. This would provide background information to
the selectmen and having them come to the meeting would be helpful. Steve
Bennett said that in the past, information made available to alleviate the
situation was: 1. remove the house on the corner, 2. put in a light or 3.
reroute traffic. Jay Guber had been involved with a group in the past related to
this matter. Wilson Hess will check with him regarding this. Some of those in
the prior group were Lissa Widoff, Jay Guber, Ken Boyer and Chris [unknown last
name].
Steve Bennett read a letter from
Attorney John Carver to Marriner Paving in relationship to the poor paving
asking that corrections be made by July 15. Also the question was asked in the
letter as to when they would start work.
A Warrant as amended and written
by Wilson Hess and Cindy for a Hearing related to P.E.R.C. and MRC will be
posted to tomorrow. Motion was made and approved. This will include an agreement
for 14 years, until 2018. Sallyann Hadyniak will post these in the designated
areas.
The snack shop situation has not
been resolved. Mr. Hess had not contacted Tina Freeman, but will do
so.
Roadside pickup, going
door-to-door will be on June 26th pending the availability of the Sullivan
Brothers and acceptance by them. This will be for all goods, brown and
white.
Fire truck bids were opened; there
were three. The bid was awarded to Midcoast Gravel of Searsport for the sum of
$750. They have one week to respond. If Midcoast does not accept, Floyd
Blaisdell of Albion bid of $705.99 would the then be
accepted.
NEW BUSINESS:
Wilson Hess spoke about a historic
record preservation grant Cindy had learned of. This is a one to one grant. The
town spends a certain amount of money and the remainder is from volunteer
services. There is $2000 in the budget [Restoration of old books] for this work
and he would like to see us get this amount. Motion w was made and seconded to
apply for this grant.
Read Brugger, postmaster, had
spoken with Steve Bennett to see if the selectmen were agreeable to allow the
postmasters to use our meeting room for May 25, 2004 from 10:30AM to 2:30PM.
There will be seven or eight of them. This was agreeable to all selectmen.
Steve Bennett learned that the
computer is not working properly. Wilson Hess will look at it after the
meeting.
A letter was read by Steve Bennett by Lissa Widoff.
He also read
a letter from George Butler relative to a conversation he had with Wilson Hess.
He, Mr. Butler, wrote about a meeting he had with Red Mitchell discussing his
boundaries and acreage. It was alleged that he had abandoned 13 thirteen [13]
acres. He owns 22, not 35 acres. No action was taken. The letter will be
attached to his property card.
Wilson Hess stated that there was
an old town record book dating back to 1819 in the vault
Wilson Hess stated that assessing
needs to be begun for 2004. Steve Cross suggested to him that this needs to be
done in a timely fashion since it is needed for this summer to do taxes. In the
office there is a Marshall and Swift book that would be helpful. A training
session in assessing was done in February and will be done again in August of
this year. Steve Cross has the most experience regarding assessments.
The
selectmen decided to meet this Saturday, May 8th, from 8AM to 10 AM. to have a
work session in relationship to assessing.
Wilson Hess gave several pieces of
material, some related to comprehensive planning, to Steve Bennett for the
planning board.
Steve Cross spoke about an area on
Ayer Ridge Rd that needed repair because of snowplow damage. He felt that cold
patching the area would be appropriate and he will see that this gets done.
FINANCIAL
WARRANTS:
Warrants from Cindy were presented
for payroll of $1,439.55. Steve Bennett and Wilson
Hess will be paid on a
monthly basis over a period of nine months. Steve Cross will be paid on an
annual basis.
Steve Bennett presented a warrant with a list of bills. Total
expenditures were $6,073.42
Both warrants were signed.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:58
PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Marion
Bowers
MINUTES:
SELECTMEN'S MEETING, TOWN OF FREEDOM
May 4,
2004
Selectmen present: Steve Bennett,
Steve Cross, and Wilson Hess.
Also present: Theresa Abbott, Betty
Sienkiewicz, Sallyann Hadyniak, Wassey Hadyniak, Thelma Ludden, Pete
Bowers,
Floyd Blaisdell, and Marion Bowers
Meeting was opened at 6PM by Steve
Bennett. Minutes were available to be read.
Wilson Hess requested that a
correction be made in the minutes of April 13, 2004 and the minutes of May 4th.
It was moved and seconded that the minutes of April 13 should be changed to
read, "Minutes of April 13th should be changed to read, Risk Management People
from MMA stated that it may not be a safe liability for volunteers to do the
work.
Corrections in the minutes were
made in the minutes of May 4, 2004.
Mr. Turner did not attend the sand and
salt meeting.
Steve Bennett, not Steve Cross, will respond to the
pre-application preservation grant.
Mark Philbrook has been on the list for a
septic grant since 2003. Stanley McDonald an even longer length of time. Steve
Bennett, not Wilson Hess, said that a new application needs to be made out this
year.
Wilson Hess, not Mr. Wilson completed the Boundary Survey.
The
Selectmen would like to have a trial balance for the first quarter that ends the
end of May.
Mr. Hess, not Mike Turner, has not contacted Jay Guber yet on
Mr. Turner's behalf. Planning Board minutes were given to Mike Turner during the
meeting. .
The minutes were accepted with these
corrections.
OLD
BUSINESS:
Plumbing
inspector: Steve Bennett spoke with the town clerk in Unity regarding Donald
Harriman. They have been satisfied with the relationship.
He also spoke with
Donald Harriman who stated he would accept the same deal as last year which
would be for 75% of the fees collected, 25 % goes to the state for DHS: plus he
wants a stipend of $500 in addition. This is for travel, phone calls, letters
and checking on septic systems that are not working. There was much discussion
particularly related to the $500. Steve Cross had talked to someone in Morrill
who felt we would be getting a good deal, as they have to pay a $1000 stipend.
Wilson Hess, in reviewing the figures from last year, found that we were paying
out more than we were receiving. The Town has not voted to raise money for the
Plumbing inspector. A warrant for a town meeting related to the stipend of $500
was suggested by Steve Bennett. Steve Cross also felt this was a possibility and
to pass over it if not needed. In discussing the situation, a motion was made by
Steve Bennett. Wilson Hess felt that Donald Harriman had missed the date
regarding this $500 stipend and that this discussion should have taken place
four months ago, not now. The motion did not pass. Steve Bennett will call
Donald Harriman to further discuss the situation.
Steve Bennett spoke with Tom Odle
regarding Mr.Philbrick's request for a septic system. The request had to have
been in by Jan 31, 04. The current system is to close to a neighbor's well. He
will also check into the septic system for Stanley McDonald as well. He will
check with Cindy as well as getting in touch with Richard Green.
Wilson Hess presented a
certificate of appreciation to the cub scouts and their leaders for the outside
work. This was signed by the three selectmen.
Steve Bennett produced a copy of a
town report from 1956, article 34, in relationship to Rollins Road. This was one
of five roads that were discontinued as town roads. Rollins Rd. is a town road
as far as the Wagner Driveway. The closed roads could stay open as a public way,
but would not be maintained by the town.
Wilson Hess stated that the grant
from the Maine Library Of Geographic Information has been submitted. The grant
request is for $1,617, the town's contribution would be $1078. Later this month
we should know the results.
Also the MMA Risk Management Grant has been
written as two grants, not one. Both have been submitted.
Pleasant Street Hearing by the
selectmen will be at a regular meeting on June 1, 04. This is in relationship to
whether Pleasant Street should be one way or two ways. All views will be heard.
Wilson Hess felt it would be wise to obtain advice from the appropriate people,
such as a safety engineer at DOT. This would provide background information to
the selectmen and having them come to the meeting would be helpful. Steve
Bennett said that in the past, information made available to alleviate the
situation was: 1. remove the house on the corner, 2. put in a light or 3.
reroute traffic. Jay Guber had been involved with a group in the past related to
this matter. Wilson Hess will check with him regarding this. Some of those in
the prior group were Lissa Widoff, Jay Guber, Ken Boyer and Chris [unknown last
name]..
Steve Bennett read a letter from
Attorney John Carver to Marriner Paving in relationship to the poor paving
asking that corrections be made by July 15. Also the question was asked in the
letter as to when they would start work.
A Warrant as amended and written
by Wilson Hess and Cindy for a Hearing related to P.E.R.C. and MRC will be
posted to tomorrow. Motion was made and approved. This will include an agreement
for 14 years, until 2018. Sallyann Hadyniak will post these in the designated
areas.
The snack shop situation has not
been resolved. Mr. Hess had not contacted Tina Freeman, but will do
so.
Roadside pickup, going
door-to-door will be on June 26th pending the availability of the Sullivan
Brothers and acceptance by them. This will be for all goods, brown and
white.
Fire truck bids were opened; there
were three. The bid was awarded to Midcoast Gravel of Searsport for the sum of
$750. They have one week to respond. If Midcoast does not accept, Floyd
Blaisdell of Albion bid of $705.99 would the then be
accepted.
NEW
BUSINESS:
Wilson Hess
spoke about a historic record preservation grant Cindy had learned of. This is a
one to one grant. The town spends a certain amount of money and the remainder is
from volunteer services. There is $2000 in the budget [Restoration of old books]
for this work and he would like to see us get this amount. Motion w was made and
seconded to apply for this grant.
Read Brugger, postmaster, had
spoken with Steve Bennett to see if the selectmen were agreeable to allow the
postmasters to use our meeting room for May 25, 2004 from 10:30AM to 2:30PM.
There will be seven or eight of them. This was agreeable to all selectmen.
Steve Bennett learned that the
computer is not working properly. Wilson Hess will look at it after the
meeting.
A letter was read by Steve Bennett by Lissa Widoff.
He also read
a letter from George Butler relative to a conversation he had with Wilson Hess.
He, Mr. Butler, wrote about a meeting he had with Red Mitchell discussing his
boundaries and acreage. It was alleged that he had abandoned 13 thirteen [13]
acres. He owns 22, not 35 acres. No action was taken. The letter will be
attached to his property card.
Wilson Hess stated that there was
an old town record book dating back to 1819 in the vault.
Wilson Hess stated that assessing
needs to be begun for 2004. Steve Cross suggested to him that this needs to be
done in a timely fashion since it is needed for this summer to do taxes. In the
office there is a Marshall and Swift book that would be helpful. A training
session in assessing was done in February and will be done again in August of
this year. Steve Cross has the most experience regarding assessments. The
selectmen decided to meet this Saturday, May 8th, from 8AM to 10 AM. to have a
work session in relationship to assessing.
Wilson Hess gave several pieces of
material, some related to comprehensive planning, to Steve Bennett for the
planning board.
Steve Cross spoke about an area on
Ayer Ridge Rd that needed repair because of snowplow damage. He felt that cold
patching the area would be appropriate and he will see that this gets done.
FINANCIAL
WARRANTS:
Warrants from
Cindy were presented for payroll of $1,439.55. Steve Bennett and Wilson Hess
will be paid on a monthly basis over a period of nine months. Steve Cross will
be paid on an annual basis. Steve Bennett presented a warrant with a list of
bills. Total expenditures were $6,073.42 Both warrants were signed.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:58
PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Marion
Bowers
MINUTES: SELECTMEN'S MEETING
TOWN OF FREEDOM
April 27,
2004
Selectmen present: Steve Bennett,
Steve Cross, and Wilson Hess.
Others present: Theresa Abbott, Betty
Sienkiewicz, Sallyann Hadyniak, Pete
Bowers, Elwin Turner, Wy Hadyniak, Jon
Willette, Jim Waterman, Audrey Williams and Marion Bowers
Minutes of the last meeting were
read. There was one correction made by Mike Turner. Mike Turner asked that the
statement made by Jay Goober that the selectmen check out the sub division of
Mike Turners, which was made years ago be included in the minutes. With this
addition they were approved.
SELECTMENS
REPORTS:
A motion was
made and approved to send a letter to each of the outgoing selectmen recognizing
their service to the town.
Mr. Bennett presented the
following items:
Sand and Salt Bid: Mr. Cross and
Elwin Turner attended a meeting in regards to this. The tonnage is cheaper with
multiple towns.150 tons will be ordered.
Plumbing inspector: Mr. Cross
approached Donald Harriman regarding the position of plumbing inspector. His fee
would include all plumbing fees plus $500. There was considerable discussion
regarding this. In the past, two thirds of the fee were evenly divided between
the state and human services and the remaining portion, one third went to the
plumbing inspector. No decision was reached. Cindy will be contacted as to what
has been done in the past. Mr. Bennett will check with Unity and see what kind
of a relationship they have with Donald Harriman regarding his
fees.
Old Snack Shop: This has been
discussed as to the disposition of this building in the past. It was felt that
Tina Freeman did not want to keep it on a permanent basis. Mr. Hess felt that it
needs to be gotten rid of. Elwin Turner felt that he could use it for his own
personal use. No other departments have expressed an interest in it. In the end
it was decided to have Mr. Hess check with Tina and if she did not want the
building Elwin would take it. It would no longer be a liability to the town.
Formal action would be required on this at a future
meeting.
Pleasant St. MMA road manual
states that the selectmen have the authorization in deciding whether this should
be one way or two way. Mr. Hess stated that a public hearing should be held to
further discuss this issue. Sallyann Hadyniak stated that this had been
previously discussed. Mike Turner felt that there were people who need to be
present to discuss some of the negatives, such as inability of large vehicles to
navigate up the hill on 137 when they come from High St. particularly when the
road is slippery. Mr. Bennett mentioned issues of safety and convenience. A
motion was made and seconded to have a hearing to discuss the Pleasant St.
situation, with all views to be presented on June 1, 2004. Mr. Hess asked
Salllyann Hadyniak to put this in the newspaper.
Marriner Paving: Mr. Bennett
stated that Attorney John Carver has been contacted again asking that a letter
be sent requesting that they repair the roads in Freedom as they said they would
by July 15, 2004. This letter is not to mention any threat. It will be about $75
to draft this letter.
Public Hearing on P.E.R.C. Mr.
Hess has been in contact with Greg Launder from the Municipal Review Committee,
[MRC], Gary Stacey from P.E.R.C. and someone from Sullivan's. They will all be
present at the hearing on April 28, 2004.
Credit Card Machine: A request has
been made for such a machine to be in the town office. This would cost money;
there is a fee involved. Mr. Hess was not in favor of such a
machine.
Personal Property List from Rent
way will be put in the file for Mr. Hess.
Coca Cola Letter: Unable to fill
out form, as one was never sent with the letter. Mr. Hess will also look into
this.
FEMA Grant: A check for $27,556.67
has been received from the Federal Gov't. After the paper work is finished there
will be another $5,000 coming from the state of Maine.
A warrant for payroll from Cindy
was approved for a total of $837.67.
Cindy Abbott and the Cub Scouts
will be recognized and thanked for their work outside the Town Office. Motion
made and approved to do this. Mr. Hess will compose this letter.
Recreation Committee: Mr. Bennett
stated that he had received e-mail from the Killers. This was an update on the
work that had been accomplished. They would appreciate any help they could get.
They will also be having a dance on Friday night.
MMA Workers Comp: Loss ratio, 2
claims with $463 being paid out. This is a good loss ratio According to Mr.
Bennett.
Ed. Ponder, at some time, sent a
certified letter just prior to the elections. No one knows anything about this.
It may deal with the old Mark Mitcher property.
Chris White would like to mow
lawns for the town. Herb Abbott has been doing this and will continue to do the
town office if this is agreeable to him. . The members of the fire department do
around the fire department.
MMA letter, re: Palesky
Referendum: MMA feels this would be devastating to the State of Maine. This
referendum refers to the tax cap on property of the 1996 rate or a 10-mil cap.
Mr. Wilson suggested that no action be taken.
Letter from Jim Waterman: Ann
Snyder from the MMA Risk Management discussed blood borne pathogens with the
fire department and fleet safety. They will be applying for a grant proposal for
liquid storage material. $773 includes shipping with 66%
returned.
Mr. Bennett bought up the subject
of by-laws and their approval. It is the responsibility of the selectmen to
approve by-laws. In this case it is referring to the by-laws of the Recreational
Committee.
WCCSA has applied for a
pre-application preservation first time grant. This is for the low income and to
help make betterments in substandard housing. It needs to be supported buy the
town. A response is due by May 5th. Mr. Cross will respond to this
letter.
Town Committee Reports:
Mr.
Bennett would like regularly scheduled reports on a quarterly basis the first
Tuesday of any month. Particularly after the close of the quarter. Also there
needs to be a liaison between the different departments. Mr. Wilson will be the
liaison with the fire department. Mr. Bennett will be the liaison with the
planning board and Mr. Cross with
We have a bid on the old fire
truck but that cannot be opened until May 3rd.
Mark Philbrook has been the list
for a septic grand for years. However because the information was not send into
DEP in a timely fashion, the money we might have received has been forfeited.
Mark Turner also stated that Stanley McDonald had been on the list for a long
time. A new application this year needs to be made out according to Mr. Hess. He
will also check with Richard Green regarding this fund.
Mr. Wilson completed the Boundary
Survey. The form was sent in Monday according to him.
Mr. Bennett is still working to
learn phone numbers; those that have been ascertained are: Audrey Williams,
382-6130; Tina Freeman 382-6610 and Bruce Peterson 's is still missing.
Assement for the Town of Freedom
county taxes is $ 52, 529.54 up from $40, will wait until August as all of the
information is not in. This will need to be signed by the selectmen as
assessors.
PUC Survey was made for
underground Wires was with CMP, Fairpoint, and Exxon- Mobil. This was approved
and signed by all selectmen.
Town Officers
Report:
The audit,
where is it???? Was a question asked by Mr. Hess. Would also like to have the
trial balance for the first quarter that ends the end of May, Mr. Hess also
spoke in regards to the password for the Website that he will have to find. The
pass work, now in code, for Sallyann to enter the minutes of the town meeting is
yet to be found according to Mr. Hess.
Mike Turner is still looking for
the minutes from 2003. He has not contacted Jay Guber yet.
Cemeteries: Viola Greely and
Lorraine Overlock are in charge of them. There is a grant, which can be applied
for with Lucas Tree. This would help in the work on cemeteries. They have limbs
of the trees that interfere with the electric lines. Perhaps something could be
worked out for them to do some, the private cemeteries. It would be worthwhile
to pay them $40/hr for 2 men and a bucket truck, Wilson Hess will pursue this
possibility, Theresa Abbot t will organize a workday. There may be a possibility
that some of the senior students will do this as part of their community
service. A grant from the Lucas Tree will look into this. As it is now, the
company gets $40.oo an hour for two men and a bucket truck. Mr. Hess will look
into the possibility of obtaining a grant from them.
Historical Society: Is this a
separate entity or does it fall under a town committee? On the second Wednesday
of May the group has a meeting and this will be discussed.
Jim Waterman, fire chief gave a
report on the recent MMA Risk Management. Much of this information has already
been discussed previously in this report. However there are several firefighters
that would like to have the Hepatitis B vaccine for their safety in caring for
those with this virus.
Town Roads: Elwin Turner reported
that he had a call that the Rollins Rd had washed out badly. Part of this road
has been discontinued. According to Mike Turner the discontinuance of the road
was after the Wagner Barn. Currently this has not been the situation. There are
three families living there, some very elderly. The fire department has been
down to them several times. The road is narrow and wet at times according to Jim
Waterman. The discontinuance goes back to 1955 and the wording maybe interpreted
in different ways. Mr. Hess will look into this.
Dig Safe Violation: This occurred
sometime last summer. Elwin Turner stated that he had called and they had come
out and marked the areas safe for digging. Training of four hours will eliminate
the fine. Classes are from 8-12 on Wed and need to be taken by August.
Road Commissioner: There was a
long discussion related to roads, employees and the quality of the roads. Steve
Bennett felt that a plan of action needs to be developed after noting the
condition of all the town roads. He suggested to Elwin Turner that he get a
group of people who had some expertise in this area, such as Clayton Larrabee,
Buddy Spaulding, Junior Emerson, Ron Lee, and Dennis Jones and create a plan.
Mike Turner said this had been done several years ago and they were not able to
present it before the selectmen. because they were informed it was illegally
posted. Mr. Bennett felt that a motion to create a committee for the town roads
and the town garage is needed. The garage is in poor shape and the question
becomes repair or demolition. In the past there have been several people who
thought they might be able to do some repairs on it, but none were done. It was
suggested that perhaps Jim Little, a contractor would be willing to look at it
and asses if the garage is salvageable or it needs to be replaced. An area on
the Mitchell Rd. might be a possibility for a new garage.
Mr. Bennett
inquired as to how Elwin Turner was paid. Mr. Turner replied he is paid $18.12
per hour. He makes sure the work is done, supervises, and also works on the
road. He also works with the equipment as well. Hourly wages: common laborer
$9.03, truck drivers $11.50. Mr. Bennett felt it made more sense to pay a couple
of laborers versus paying $18.12. When Elwin Turner drives in to get parts he is
paid mileage as well his hourly wage.
The time cards are given to Cindy that
Elwin has initialed. Currently he has one driver, Clint Spaulding but needs
three others. They must pass drug screening and have an annual physical. The
town really needs some on-call drivers and laborers. There is even a question
that in the future we will have to contract the work out if we can't find
eligible candidates. It was suggested that Matt Shaw, who formerly worked for
DOT might be interested. He is well known to Jim Waterman. All in all a public
works committee needs to be formed.
Salt removal off the trucks is in the
process.
Elwin Turner will be going under medical treatment over the next
few weeks and Herb Abbott would probably cover for him.
No Selectmen’s Meeting on
April 20, 2004
Minutes of the April 13,
2004 Town of Freedom, Selectmen’s Meeting
Those in attendance were Selectmen
Steve Bennett, Wilson G. Hess, and Steve Cross. Also included were Thelma
Ledden, Betty Sienkiewicz, Jon Willett, Lisa Woodoff, Theressa Abbott, Bruce
Peterson, Jay Guber, Mike Turner, Tom Fleming, Jim Waterman, Audrey Williams,
Mr. & Mrs. Gerald Hartley, Peter Bowers and Sallyann
Hadyniak.
Mr. Bennett requested that
Sallyann take the minutes.
The meeting was called to order
By 1st. Selectman,
Steve Bennett at 6:01 p.m.
Mr. Bennett requested the
telephone numbers of Audrey Williams, Bruce Peterson, Elwin Turner and Betty
Sienkiewicz to have on record.
A motion to accept the minutes of
the April 6th meeting as read was made by Steve Cross and passed by
Wilson G. Hess.
Appointments:
Steve Bennett announced that Nancy
Bailey Farrar was the Chairman of the Planning board, Helen Tirone, co-chair and
Judy Bennett Secretary.
The Appeals Board remains the
same.
Appointed to the Budget Committee
were Audrey Williams and Betty Sienkiewicz.
The Freedom Rec. Committee was
having their meeting on the 14th and will elect their officers and
will present the information regarding the by-laws to the
Selectmen.
Steve Bennett made a motion that
Steve Cross should get in contact with David Harriman, Plumbing Inspector set a
meeting date and sees what his fee is for that position. It was second by Wilson
Hess.
A motion was made by Steve Cross
to appoint Jay Guber as building inspector and CEO. All were in
favor.
A motion by Steve Bennett to name
Marion Bowers as Health Officer. Motion made and carried. All in
favor.
A motion by Steve Bennett to name
James Waterman as Civil Defense Officer Second by Wilson
Hess.
For constable, it was noted that
the position was not necessary; therefore the motion for Christine Bessey was
not carried. Wilson Hess moved to have the position vacant and it was second by
Steve Bennett. It was unanimous.
It was noted that all appointments
must be sworn in.
Wilson Hess gave a report
regarding FEMA.
There were eight roads that needed
to be completed, Beaver Ridge, Burnham Hill, Smithton, Davis, Deerhill, Greeley,
Rollins and Sibley roads. $20,000.00 has already been expanded, half due to
storm and for work in the summer. The selectmen should work with the Road
Commissioner to make sure the work is done right.
Audit
Report:
Internal Control
Observation
Town audit for 2003 Final
statement in the next several weeks. One reconcile trial balance be taken and
revised quality (March). A lot of work needs to be done. The Selectmen set a
date with the treasurer. Trial balance produced 12/31/03. State auditor and
treasurer from 2002 said it was not done and should be done. All of the other
control stems from that. Wilson Hess stated that the trial balance comes from
Trio—not correspondence to the paper ones. Original kept in paper form and
harder producing. The work on the computer must be kept up. Cindy wants
additional training and would rather do paper work. Cindy signed up for training
with Trio already.
Steve Bennett asked if Audrey
Williams if familiar with Trio. Wilson Hess stated there wasn’t any money set
aside for the accessing work for Trio. Hamlin Associates IRS in Augusta wrote an
assessment program which was cheaper. Steve Bennett asked a new member of the
Budget Committee to look into Cindy’s program and to give her a boost. Audrey
Williams stated she will help to see how it works. Wilson Hess said he is
confident that Cindy can do the work.
Jay Guber thought Trio is being
paid on annual fee and we should ask them to help. Cindy spent a lot of time
with Trio for support. Trio will come out for assistance. Wilson Hess would
rather Cindy ask for help if she needs it instead of just sending someone to
help her.
Road
Report:
Steve Cross and Wilson Hess were
scared to death all the way while checking roads on Saturday. Steve Cross got
more information today, (Tuesday) and checked out the town
lines.
The Waldo County Selectman’s
Association wants the town to send a representative to buy sand. Last year it
was purchased and it was good sand. Steve Cross will attend the next meeting on
April 29. Steve Cross is to contact Elwin Turner, Road Commissioner to find out
how many tons of sand the town needs. Steve Bennett and Wilson Hess might be
able to go, after checking, Steve Cross and Wilson Hess is very interested in
going. They all agreed to get the same amount of sand as last year. The meeting
is in Waldo County and starts at 7 p.m.
Ayer Ridge, Mitchell Road has
drainage problems; the trouble with the new paving is that it should be sealed.
Smithtown is bad on top of the hill, ditching needed on Smithtown Road or big
erosion will occur. Rocks should be placed to slow down the water, a tree on
Ayers Ridge Road should be cut down for it can fall and it is dangerous. Beaver
Ridge Road was also checked.
Bushes should be cut on some
roads. CMP has Lucas doing a lot of work under the lines and possibly have the
Lucas boy do some of the work that we need to be done regarding the bushes, etc.
Elwin Turner is to be contacted to attend the next meeting (April 27) this is
his job. Sullivan went off Sibley Road and according to Wilson Hess, Freedom
does not run a towing service. Jon Willett contacted Elwin to look into stump.
Snow plow was responsible. Dig Safe was there today and Jon felt he could get
rid of the stump. Jon volunteered to do the job. At that point, Steve Cross
stated that Jon has done a lot of work for the town and as a resident of Town
House Road; Peter Bowers said it looks great! Jon was warned by Wilson Hess and
second by Steve Bennett to be careful. The stump is 17 feet from the phone lines
and the stump is three feet.
Steve Bennett read a letter from
the Waldo County Comm. dated April 7 and said it looks like a bill for
5,252.??
$52,664.94 is Freedom’s share and
should be raised to defray the unusual necessary charges to D. A. Parkman,
Treasurer of the County of Waldo.
Last year it was $45,403.00 and
was due in 60 days. This year it is up by 7,261.94.
Francis King stated that he
updated the minutes on the computer and I, (Sallyann Hadyniak) volunteered to
post the minutes on the computer.
Follow up conversation, Mr. Stacey
and Mr. Linden will be available to attend meeting August 28, at 7
p.m.
Wilson Hess read a letter he
drafted up to send to the outgoing Selectmen reminding them to return all town
documents etc and those they shouldn’t have any town property. It also included
a thank you for their dedication to the job.
Mike Turner wants the minutes of
the Planning Board to check out to check out something about the law and the
only minutes found were from February to August. It was discovered that some
minutes were not in the office. September to December weren’t available. CEO
information to be given to Mike Turner. He will charge for copies of $25.00 and
$30.00 for all minutes.
Wilson Hess received notification
that the Homestead was ??????Mill Rate was overstated. $23,325.00 deemed for
18,000 was 17 plus change and a decrease of 1/3.
$4,952.00 must be paid by April
30. The figure was sent in before the taxes were paid.
DEP a grant balance of 305.00.
They will disencumber to other projects. 4/1/2004 notify small comm. grant
balance letter dated 3/9/04.
Lisa Woodoff gave her opinion
regarding the Pleasant Street one way sign. Also was stated that the one way is
being violated by others and by residents of that street. It is up to the
Selectmen to decide whether it will remain a one way or two ways. They will
discuss it.
Town Offices
Reports:
Steve Bennett met with the
Planning Board. Discussions were held regarding the building ordinance, roll of
Planning board and CEO. Steve Bennett‘s opinion is that the CEO and the Planning
Board should work closer together. Permits should go to the planning board and
not the Selectmen.
Cindy will be making copies of
permits. Bringing the Comprehensive plan back to light. The people didn’t have
time to do their homework during their 5-6 year period to continue comprehensive
plan. People that have the time are needed for Comprehensive planning and
committees for sub-divisions.
Steve Cross gave the Hartley’s
their abatement and they left immediately.
Steve Bennett will be the liaison
to the Planning Board. Wilson Hess has a stack of papers to be handed over.
Need to do something about 2 acres
passed at town meeting. 1 Bldg. permit given to Shawn and Barbara Weave for a 48
X 28 garage.
Robbtal nixed their idea at the
moment decided the Rollins Road was not suitable at this time. (Road and
property) to place the trailer. Jeff Scott Lot 5-Kenshaw Richardson Map 3 sub
division wants information regarding sub division. Jay Guber needs documentation
soil test, 300 feet back on the lot. Steve Shaw does not have a published
number. Jay will see him regarding the documentation.
Representative from Freedom =to
attend meeting in Augusta regarding new highway in Augusta.
Jay Guber and Mike Turner
discussed not seeing any permits, sub division. Steve Bennett called discussion
to a halt. Jay gave what he had. Mike Turner wanted to know what the original
complaint was and who made it.
OLD
BUSINESS:
Wilson Hess drafted a letter to
outgoing Selectmen. Steve Bennett read letters and will add documents to be
signed by the outgoing Selectmen, namely Carol Richardson and Francis King.
Wilson Hess made the motion and Steve Cross seconds it. Motion made and
carried.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING: April
28, 2004 at the Town Hall starting at 7 p.m. to revise a prepared agreement with
PERC. The present one expired 3/31/04 and a new contract is needed. It must be
posted 7 days before at Freedom General and the Post Office. Steve Bennett made
a motion and Wilson Hess nominated Steve Bennett to post. The Clerk will be
instructed to word this poster in preparation of this notice. Wilson Hess made
the motion and Steve Bennett seconds it. Motion made and
carried.
The Hartley’s had a deed and
abatement and no reason to be reverted. Wilson Hess made a motion to reinstate
lot size 2.0 or ………..2.4 instruct treasurer. The………..is determined by the
assessors. All in favor!
Mariners
Paving
Steve Bennett did not get a phone
call from John Carver regarding breach of contract. Verbal torte law contract.
Mariner said they will restore it by July 16, 2004. Wilson Hess will follow up
from Steve Bennett and put it on hold, if not, Wilson will do
it.
Freedom Rec Comm to place a portal
pottie and dumpster in the Freedom Rec. Park.
Special Town Meeting on May 5,
2004 to vote on PERC 7 p.m. at the Grange. Second article possibly redesign the
Freedom Rec. Comm by-laws.
NEW
BUSINESS:
Assign Selectman to see that work
gets done by FEMA. Steve Bennett wants road commissioner to oversee a road plan
and to develop a plan. Also look at the whole Public Works
department.
Tire on loader needs to be taken
off and taken care of. Jon Willett is willing to take the tire down to have it
fixed and he together with the help of Elwin Turner will put it back. (Tire to
be repaired) Jon will call Elwin.
Risk Management people from MMA
stated that it may not be safe liability for Jon to do the work. Steve Cross
will represent Selectman with Road Committee.
AUDIT:
Wilson Hess asked Cindy Abbott
when they can have a trial balance for the end of the first quarter. A motion
was made by Steve Bennett that May 15th the treasurer will provide
the trial balance to the Selectmen and Wilson Hess seconds it. All were in
agreement. Motion made, carried and passed.
OPEN
SESSION:
Lisa Woodoff spoke of reasons why
Pleasant Street should remain one way. Emergency vehicles are exempt! The
decision lies with the Selectmen, all opinions are heard and safety issues were
discussed. It was agreed that the left turn was not safe. Audrey Williams agreed
to look at the whole and not one part when making a decision. It will be
discussed and see what DOT alternatives are. Look at all
alternatives!
Peter Bowers wanted to know about
Pickup Brown and White goods. There should be one in October. That will get
checked out. The budget had a smaller amount then last year. Peter stated that
it is hard for the elderly to take their items to be dropped off and that door
to door is best.
Jon Willet stated he had someone
who will take the junk culverts tomorrow and got the approval of Steve Bennett
and Wilson Hess.
Theresa Abbott wants something
done to the streetlights that go on and off!
Steve Bennett made a motion to
close the meeting at 8:39, motion made and carried. Meeting
closed.
Respectfully
submitted,
Sallyann
Hadyniak
TOWN OF
FREEDOM SELECTMEN’S MEETING: APRIL 6, 2004
Steve Bennett, Steve Cross and
Wilson Hess, Selectmen
Also present: Sallyann Hadyniak,
Theresa Abbott, Betty Sienkiewicz, Audrey Williams, Dottie
Chase, Thelma Ledden, Tina
Freeman, Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Hartley, Beau Selleck, Mike Turner,
Erna and Kevin Keller, Jeff
Holmes, Jim Waterman, Drew Fales, John Willett, Bruce Peterson,
Peter and Marion Bowers.
Meeting called to order by Mr.
Bennett.
Mr. Bennett read the minutes of
the last meeting that were written by Mr. Hess. With one correction they were
accepted and read. That correction should have been Smithton Cemetery instead of
Pleasant Hill Cemetery.
Selectmen’s
Reports:
.
Mr. Hess reported on his
discussion with a representative of PERC. Our multi-year contract expired on
3/31/04. A fourteen- year renewal was offered. In the future we may be able to
join in an expanded charter town pool. Currently we are not in one. These towns
currently receive a rebate of $20 per ton. We currently pay a tipping fee of $65
per ton. If they extend the charter town pool and we join we would share in
profits, around $10 per ton. Tipping fee would allow us to dump 250 tons of
garbage yearly plus other benefits. Quarterly payments of the profits would be
paid to us. Mr. Bennett stated that the revenue stream comes in the form of a
rebate from the PERC profits. We would also be allowed a 25% overage on
contracted amounts without changing the terms of the contract. As it is now
garbage has to go somewhere, either PERC or to a landfill. If offer not taken we
would go back to the former agreement. A meeting with MRC is needed to learn
more and this needs to be done soon. Our other options are to have a short-term
agreement with PERC, or use a landfill. A hearing with those involved needs to
be scheduled soon.
Mr. Hess stated that the auditor
had been to Freedom. We don’t meet the requirements necessary to file an A133.
In relationship to transit payment
there will be no bonus for Freedom since we do not have this system.
Department of Labor noted that we
had no violations and no facility. Form filed.
Forms turned in on Assessors Day
will be acknowledged.
Mr. Bennett spoke regarding the
paving situation done by Marriners on Greeley and Bryant Road in 2002. There are
multiple bare spots. Steve Cross, Elwin Turner and a representative of the
company, Lee Andrews met and it was agreed that it would be fixed before
snowfall. It was never done. A letter was sent by Attorney John Carver to the
Marriners requesting that this be repaired. Job was so poor, that repaving is
needed on 3.1 mi of road. The response from them, was that they would repair by
lining off areas that were bare. This was to be done by 6/15/03. Marriners gave
excuses to the attorney as to why it had not been done, but said that it would
now be done by 7/15/04. Our situation now is do we wait and see if it is done
without further action or do we hire an attorney to sue. Cost to hire an
attorney to file a suit and represent us can range from $7, 500 to $30,000, plus
a fee for an expert would be from $3,000 to $4,000. For $75.00 we can have
Attorney Carver send a letter to fix the roads, requiring that they do a
workman-like job. Letter should also state that the repairs be made to the
standard of an original surface. Also to include that a penalty would be
negotiated by attorney if not done by stated date.
Tina Freeman inquired if the
attorney generals office had ever been contacted for mediation. Mr. Bennett will
check with attorney John Carver for his opinion on this.
Mr. Bennett had met with the risk
evaluator from MMA. They toured the town office, garage, town house and snack
shack area. Required insurance forms from Freedom had not been mailed back to
them by the due date of 3/31/03 and they were interested as to why this had not
been done.
Town house, historical building,
is worth actual cash value. May change with $10,000 grant from MBNA. The
inspector was impressed by what had already been done. If intensive work is to
be done in the future, i.e., wiring, a builders’ risk policy would be needed.
Mr. Bennett noted that there was
rot on the gable line and some roof deterioration.
There was a question of the
support for the chimney. Drew Fales stated that it was supported but not to the
first floor. This will be addressed. He also stated that there was a lot more
work that needed to be done. Brian Mitchell had been contacted for roof repair
but it was too late in the fall. The foundation work has been done and the roof
is next.
The recreational area was the next
inspected. Bleachers on the right are okay, the older ones nearer the town
office have planks that look and are rotten. They will require replacement. The
height of the back of the bleachers is a potential problem. It was suggested
that there be some kind of back support. It may be necessary to contact the
underwriter and Mr. Cross has his phone number.
The old snack shop needs to be
moved. At one time it was to be used for storage behind the town office. Tina
Freeman also expressed an interest in taking it and using if for storage but
still having the town have ownership of the building.
The new snack shop will have water
and a grill outside. There will be no bathroom facilities.
Insurance on the dugouts is not
necessary.
There is a risk around the swing
sets, some have been damaged and need replacement.
Hanging bars are not smooth,
splinters present.
Tot swing cracked.
Safety surface paint needed on
platforms to prevent slipping.
Wasp nest needs to be removed.
Also suggested was a railing at
the top of the slide that youngsters could hold onto until they were seated.
Jeff Holmes stated that they would
be putting chips under the swings.
The town garage had multiple
problems that were not gone into.
We will be receiving a letter out
lining the findings.
A grange hall certificate needs to
be on file for anyone wanting to use the facility such as the Historical
Society, Freedom Recreational Group, Fire Department, etc.
Florence Wheeler is the contact
person.
Insurance coverage for Workman’s
comp 8%, Property damage 49%, nearly half of that in claims. In 2001 there were
5-6 vehicle claims.
It was suggested that a defensive
driving course for all operators of the town vehicles be done. The course is
free and is 2.5 hrs long.
Mr. Hess met with the auditor who
had completed the fieldwork. In reviewing and discussing the Recreation Funds,
they are to receive a refund of $683.12. This comes from $480 the previous year,
and $203 last year.
Gail Chase, state auditor, reports
that control issues are a problem in a letter.
Mr. Bennett stated that the town
had received a violation notice from July 22, 03 on Smithton Rd. It was a
probable violation of Maine State Law. Northland and the town did ground work
without the approval from DigSafe. The penalty is a $500 fine and mandatory
training. Thirty days are allowed to respond. We have the option of appealing or
consent to the agreement. This will be checked with Elwin Turner.
John Willette spoke about
inaccurate information they had received in the 2002 from Dig Safe. Wires were
not where they said they were.
Mr. Bennett requested that you
call Dig Safe and they mark the site; this should prevent fines.
Mr. Willette said that he had
recently cut a wire and had not called prior to his work. The cut was made with
a shovel. He notified Dig Safe after the fact and they came out and spliced the
wires. He was told by whomever did the repair work, that it was up to that
individual’s description as to whether there would be a fine.
Town Officer’s
reports:
Jim Waterman had a request that
Mr. Bennett presented, put the 1974 pumper out
to bid. Formal action to place an
ad by the clerk to post and publish this announcement was taken.
Mr. Bennett stated that the hours
for the selectmen to be in the town office will be posted in the window. One of
them will be there everyday.
The planning board needs a
definite time to meet with the selectmen. All will remain on the board with the
exception of Clayton Wentworth whose term has expired. The term is for 5 years.
Drew Fales felt that some of the terms had been for three years.
Mr. Cross had been called
regarding a problem found by the surveyor in one of the sub-divisions on Ayer
Ridge. The owner of the sub-division, Walter Gurchick, has not recorded the
plans, but the town has the sub-division on the tax map. The sites in question
are on town map, #9, lots # 26-2 through 26-8
This is a planning board issue.
The subdivision has not been legally approved.
It needs to be researched by the
planning board if there is a violation. Also need to find out why it is on the
tax maps. The registry of deeds may be helpful according to Tina Freeman.
Mike Turner wanted to see the
minutes of the planning board. They are in the custody of the clerk.
Jeff Holmes, President of the
Recreation Committee reported on his group.
Other members are Tim and Tami
Turner, Erna and Kevin Keller, and Monica Holmes.
There will be a water spigot
eventually which has been ok’d by the church. There is electric work to be done.
In the future there will be improved parking since there are times the church
and the recreation group both need space for parking. There are trees marked
with yellow tags, which will be taken down this year. Their goal is to make a
safer and more appealing area. Hopefully in the future they will require less
funds from the town. There is a concrete wall and a hole, which present a safety
issue. Mr. Cross stated that there was a well also.
Bruce Peterson said that the Army
Corp of Engineers might be helpful in the future. Also there is a berm at the
site of the Freedom Academy. Some people would like to see this leveled, but it
was felt that graduates of the Academy and the Historical Committee might have
different feelings. Mr. Cross stated that at one time this was a level area.
May 1st will be a
workday to clean up the area. Posters will be up regarding this and Sallyann
Hadyniak will be including this in the Freedom news.
Since this committee is part of
the town, equipment that the town has might be useful to them and should be
utilized.
Mr. Hess had questions related to
the bylaws. There is nothing in them relative to the size of the committee or
the length of term they serve. Other questions, such as how do you become a
member, who can be a member, are they appointed?
Next Wed, 4/7/04 the group will
revisit the bylaws as to some of the questions raised.
OLD
BUSINESS:
Mr. Bennett informed everyone that
the locks on the doors for the selectmen and the clerk’s office and the vault
door had been changed.
There will be a letter sent to all
out going selectpersons asking that all town files, documents and any other town
records be turned in. This letter will also thank them for their service. It
will require them to sign this and return the letter. This is for the protection
of them as well as the town. It is a criminal offense to keep any town
records.
Mr. Bennett asked that a date be
set for a public hearing related to PERC. The motion was made and approved for
April 28, 2004 at 7PM at the town office for this to take place. All parties
related to this should be present including a representative from Sullivan’s,
and MRC.
Appointments that were necessary
were next on the selectmen’s agenda.
Planning board had two people to
consider, Bill Pickford and Bruce Peterson. Bruce Peterson was nominated and
approved.
Animal control officer, Tina
Freeman was nominated and approved.
Budget Committee had four people
to consider the two positions: Audrey Williams, Ellie Hess, Betty Sienkiewicz
and Tina Freeman. Audrey Williams and Betty Sienkiewicz were nominated and
approved. Mr. Bennett suggested that they meet on a quarterly basis instead of
just prior to town meeting. Doug Van Horn is the chairman.
NEW
BUSINESS:
Mr. Bennett asked that a special
town meeting to deal with PERC after the hearing be made. Also to include
Marriner Paving problem. The date for this was set for May 12, 2004 at 7PM at
the Grange Hall. This was approved.
The position of deputy clerk
responsible for taking minutes at the selectmen’s meeting had two people
interested, Sallyann Hadyniak and Marion Bowers. Marion Bowers was nominated and
approved.
Mr. Hess acknowledged Sallyann for
her faithful attendance and service. She was asked to continue coverage of the
Freedom news.
Carol Richardson had e-mailed Mr.
Hess and was interested in any deputy clerk position should there become one
available.
Jim Waterman briefly touched on
the service of Delta Ambulance. They have a quicker response time than Unity
Ambulance. He stated that you can call 911 and they will note your preference.
Mr. Bennett thought that it would
be a good idea to have a representative from Delta in a future meeting.
Mr. and Mrs. Hartley had returned
as requested last week in regard to an abatement on land they did not own. They
own 2.0 acres, not 2.4. Mr. Cross had been out to the area and the tax map was
incorrect. In 2000 they had received an abatement but the paper work and the tax
map had not been corrected for on- going years. Mr. Hess would like to view the
problem, but feels there is not a problem in the abatement and feels that the
abatement will be reinstated and carried forward.
Mr. Bennett suggested that there
be a day of service. This is a work day that other towns have in which there is
a mix of young and old beautifying their community. Other groups in the town may
also be interested in doing this. High school seniors are required to do this
and all who participate are considered volunteers.
OPEN
SESSION:
Beau Selleck came in to discuss
several things.
The Mitchell Cemetery has been
neglected for years. Mr. Bennett agreed
that this was the case with many
of our cemeteries. It is against the law
to neglect a cemetery that a Maine
Veteran has been buried in. This needed upkeep is one of the things the
selectmen will be considering in the future.
Mr. Seleck was also concerned
about ambulance service down roads in poor condition during certain times of the
years. Jim Waterman stated that during the past ten years, the fire department
and rescue have always been
able to get where they were
needed. Sometimes even backing a truck in.
Mr. Seleck also spoke about spots
on Smithton Rd that are beginning to disintegrate. This was work done by Lane
Construction and done during a wet season.
His last concern was about
property he had bought on Smithton RD. He
was told that there was no water,
but some run-off. Jay Guber told him there was a stream. The DEP viewed the
property when the run-off became a stream. He has had to get variances, put in
culverts and spend a lot of money to comply. Since there has been roadwork done
on Mitchell Rd, ditches and culverts, and the storm damage part of his property
has become wetland. He was also under the impression from the road commissioner
that at some point the remainder of Mitchell RD and Smithton road would be
paved.
Mr. Bennett informed him this
currently was not in the plan and we had yet to finish paying for paving already
done before could consider any new paving.
Mr. Hess and Mr. Cross will assess
the situation.
An unidentified lady came in to
have help with her tax abatement form. This will be taken care of after the
close of the meeting.
Sallyann Hadyniak suggested they
check out the Beaver Ridge Road. She also was there on behalf of her son Chuck
who will be a coach for the Freedom Farm Team and wanted to know when he would
receive payment of $150 for this. Mr. Bennett suggested that she check with the
town clerk, but it was doubtful if he would be paid until tax money begins to
come in late in the summer.
There will be no April
20th selectmen’s meeting since Mr. Bennett and Mr. Hess will be away.
This was voted on and approved.
The meeting closed at
9:04PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Marion Bowers
FREEDOM SELECT BOARD MEETING
MINUTES
Board Members
Present: Steve Cross (SC), Carol Richardson (CR), Francis King
Others
Present: Thelma Ledden, Jon Willette, Thressa Abbott, Salyann
Hadyniak.
Date reviewed and accepted as
amended: 03/23/04
Meeting held 03/16/2004
1. Meeting called to order at
5:59
2. We received notice that County taxes are being raised almost $7,000
to 52,664.94
3. FEMA will be reimbursing us $35,327.03 for the December rain
storm. Supplied documents outline where the money has to be spent and the
process to follow.
4. Jon Willette reported on the work done at the garage
this week. The old red truck is now empty of salt and sand. The oil has also
been changed in the diesel trucks.
Jon also reported that the culvert going
across Erna Keller's driveway is plugged. Jon was advised to ask Elwin about
using the steamer to clear the culvert.
5. SC brought up that he had
contacted MMA and it appears that any citizen can post the town warrant.
6.
Jon also reported that he used a few wrenches when he worked down to the garage
but he is not charging the town $25/hr for that.
7. 06:10 went into Executive
session.
8. 06:40 out of Executive session
9. Audrey Williams came in and
asked about the valuation of the Arlene Jackson property.
CR requested that
she come in tomorrow.
10. Steve asked about the accounting of Carol's salary.
Since she got paid each month but that only part if it was paid in 2003.
11.
0655 adjourned.
FREEDOM SELECT BOARD MEETING
MINUTES
Board Members
Present: Steve Cross (SC), Carol Richardson (CR), Francis King
Others
Present: Thelma Ledden, Thressa Abbott, Sallyann Hadyniak, Jay Guber, Jon
Willette, Erna Keller
Date reviewed and accepted as
amended: 03/16/04
Meeting held 03/09/2004
1. Meeting called to order at
6:05
2. CR reported on a judgement against the town in the amount of $100 for
failure to report a workplace accident which happened on January 31, 2001.
3.
Moved, Seconded and Passed to pay the judgement.
4. CR reported on the
Thurston Perpetual Care Fund. Apparently there are funds in an account that is
in the town's name, but which the Town treasurer does not have access to. These
funds should be deposited in a town account.
Moved, Seconded and Passed to
write a letter to Lorraine Overlock asking her to transfer the money to a town
account.
5. Letter was composed for Town clerk as
follows:
Dear Ms. Overlock:
Please contact Bangor Savings Bank and
inform them that the treasurer of the town has full access to the Town of
Freedom (Philip Thurston Perpetual Care Fund.) Account #
1447514626.
Thank you
6. Jay suggests we get a letter
from MMA concerning the law on this issue and enclose it with our
letter.
Moved, Seconded and Passed to do so.
7. Jay reported that the
Subdivision ordinance does not involve the CEO in enforcement. He will address
this issue with the Planning Board.
8. SC reported that a 55 gallon oil had
been bought by Elwin from Sam's club - Rotella.
9. Jon Willette reported that
the old truck still has sand in it.
Jon indicated he would be willing to
assist in getting the truck fixed and the sand out.
10. Erna reported that we
need to provide our own insurance for any events to be held at the Grange
hall.
Erna reviewed how the Rec committee is co-sponsoring events at the
Grange with other organizations, and the proceeds are split between the two
organizations.
She also asked if waivers from parents would be adequate to
cover volunteer work being doen by their children.
CR to investigate these
issues with MMA insurance company.
11. CR reported that we will be hearing
within the next day or two what the total amount of reimbursement from FEMA will
be. Seventy five percent will come from FEMA, 15% from MEMA and the town is
responsible for 10%.
12. Audit was delayed again. Audit will be folded into
the town reports as separate sheets. It is schedled for next Tuesday.
13. SC
mentioned that the front left loader tire needs to be fixed. CR will ask Elwin
to take care of it.
14. 0655 adjourned.
FREEDOM SELECT
BOARD MEETING MINUTES
Board Members Present: Steve Cross
(SC), Carol Richardson (CR), Francis King
Others Present: Jon Willette,
Thelma Ledden, Betty Sienkiewics, Thressa Abbott, Sallyann Hadyniak, Sean and
Melissa Turner, Jay Guber, Steve Bennett
Date reviewed and accepted as
amended: 03/09/04
Meeting held 03/02/2004
1. Meeting called to order at
6:00
2. Issue of plows turning around at the end of Davis Rd was discussed –
Perhaps the Tirones will let the plows use their driveway.
3. FEMA will be
coming tomorrow and they will want copies of the bills from the flooding. Those
bills are currently missing. The practice of bringing home town documents was
discussed. Jay Guber suggested that the important paper documents be scanned
into the computer.
4. Jay Guber presented some copies of documents that are
of concern to the town.
5. Roland and Angela Robitaille called Jay about a
permit to move their trailer onto another lot, given to them by the
Robitaille's. They had wanted to hook their septic system into the parent's
system. But later, because the roads are posted, they were unable to move the
trailer.
6. Steve asked if all the deposits were made for the town money. CR
did not know.
He also was wondering whether there was any oil down at the
town garage.
7. CR was asked if there was any money left in the truck fund.
There is a little over $2000 left in this account at this time.
8. Brief
discussion of whether unexpended monies from the truck fund should go back to
surplus.
9. 06:37 adjourned
FREEDOM SELECT BOARD MEETING
MINUTES
Board Members
Present: Steve Cross (SC), Carol Richardson (CR), Francis King
Others
Present: Thelma Ledden, Jon Willette, Betty Sienkiewics, Thressa Abbott,
Sallyann Hadyniak, Jay Guber
Date reviewed and accepted as
amended: 03/02/04
Meeting held 02/24/2004
1. Meeting called to order at
6:01
2. Jay reported on one building permit. Jay also reported that he has
reference books on various topics - he will bring them in.
3. CR reported
that one of the truck drivers had been billing us for $25/hr for 16 - 20 hours
each of the past two weeks.
Elwin to check on this and adjust the
bills.
4. James Waterman presented a Draft Hazard Mitigation Plan for Waldo
County. JW is a member of the team producing the Hazard Mitigation Plan. Three
areas of concern: flooding, wildfires, and stowm damage. If towns elect not to
participate in the formulation and implementation of the plan it is possible
that future disasters will not be reimbursed by FEMA or MEMA.
5. Steve
announced that he will be attending a WCSA meeting on this coming Thursday
evening on Fire chiefs and animal control officers. There is going to be a
meeting with the DOT on the six year plan following the meeting.
6. Minutess
of previous meeting were read.
7. Adjourned at 6:49
FREEDOM SELECT BOARD MEETING
MINUTES
Board Members
Present: Steve Cross (SC), Carol Richardson (CR)
Others Present: Thelma
Ledden, Theressa Abbott, Betty Sienkowitz, Maurice "Elwin" Turner, Timothy
Turner, Steve Bennett and James Waterman
Date reviewed and accepted as
amended: 02/24/04
Meeting held 02/17/2004
1. Meeting called to order at
6:07
2. Because Second Selectmen France King was absent, Carol Richardson
asked Sallyann Hadyniak to take the minutes of the meeting.
3. According to
1st. Selectmen Carol Richardson, Elwin Turner and she went together to Belfast,
and filled out papers last Thursday to get more money from FEMA. We have 21 days
left to get everything to FEMA. Mrs. Richardson stated that we are also getting
back 90% of the bill and a map must be turned in of roads that need to be done.
FEMA will also pay 90% of the work that will be done. Representatives of FEMA
will be back in the spring to check the roads.
4. A thank you and a request
from Galen Larabee were read by Carol Richardson regarding the six year road
plan. He wants to be in agreement with the Freedom DOT Pack. There will be a
meeting on February 26th. The packet was misplaced and Steve Cross will call Mr.
Larabee for another one.
5. Cindy Abbott wants to post the District 3 School
Board Meeting for the public.
6. Perc has called twice and sent copies of
articles for town report. The town must vote on a charter.
7. Carol will call
MMA about article. Selectmen cannot vote. There will be two copies, one for the
file and one for the public.
8. Fire Chief James Waterman announced that the
Freedom Field Day will be held on Saturday August 7, 2004. The reason for the
change of date is due to the rain we have had the last two years. The Grange
will be reserved, just in case.
9. Mr. Waterman also spoke about the Ward La
France truck that is parked outdoors is without insurance and is town property.
He wanted to know if the town wants to put it out for bid, or wants to take off
the electrical parts and just scrap it. The truck is unsafe and can be a
liability to the town. It cannot be used to fight fires. Mr. Waterman will write
up an article for the warrant. Mr. Waterman stated that a Forestry unit truck is
available from Fisher, Minn. for the amount of $12,000.00. It was listed at $13,
00.00 was offered $12,000.00 and accepted. Mr. Waterman requested that the money
be taken out of the Firemen’s Truck Fund to purchase a Pumper GMAC Sierra Grande
4 X 4. Mileage is 8,190 PTO pumps 500 gallons and has a 300 gallon aluminum
storage tank on board. It was previously owned by H G in Minn.
10. The Fire
Truck Fund was established in 1990. In November of 1993 a bid was submitted to
buy a big tanker. In January 1994, approximately $8,290.00 was taken from the
fund and since there aren’t any records in any of the town reports, it appears
that the fund is being operated as a Capital Improvement account but not labeled
or designated as such. A Capital Improvement Program gives the selectmen the
authority to release money from that account without the vote of the
people.
11. First Selectmen Carol Richardson found it hard to believe that
money could be taken out of that account without the vote of the people. Steve
Bennett said it does not make sense for the people to vote again since they
voted already to use that account strictly for fire truck purchases. Mr.
Waterman stated that he called MMA and spoke to Michael Stultz (attorney) on
2/17/2004 at 3:30 p.m. and he said that because the Fire Truck Account is being
perceived as a Capital Improvement Account, there is no need to have the town
vote to take out the money for a fire truck. Mr. Stultz stated that it is within
the power of the selectmen to release the money.
12. Mr. Waterman wants to
submit an article changing the name of the account from the Fire Truck Fund to
the Capital Improvement Account because if the name isn’t changed, the town will
have to raise money to purchase firemen equipment and does not want to put the
burden on the residents. They were advised to strip the vehicle because it is
unsafe.
13. 1st. Selectmen (Carol Richardson) asked 3rd Selectmen (Steve
Cross) how he feels about this and he responded that he felt that it should be
used for the fire truck 1st. Selectmen Carol Richardson therefore made a motion
that the $12,000.00 be taken out of the Fire Truck Fund to purchase the pumper
and 3rd. Selectmen, Steve Cross second it. Motion made and carried.
14. Carol
will ask Cindy to cut a check and Dot Waterman will pick it up tomorrow.
15.
The audit will be on Friday and the Budget committee meeting will be held on the
28th of February. An article on the warrant will be resubmitted to participate
in another grant.
16. Mr. Waterman will have the truck imported by sending 2
men out to pick it up. It will get inspected, registered and insured.
17. The
Fire Department gets all their bills from H. L. Keays and pays for them out of
their own account.
18. There will be a meeting a week from Thursday in Waldo
County for the selectman at 139 Waldo School. The Fire Chief is asked to
attend.
19. A motion to close the meeting at 6:55 was made by 1st. Selectman
Carol Richardson and 2nd. Selectman Steve Cross seconded it. Motion made and
carried. Adjourned.
FREEDOM SELECT BOARD MEETING
MINUTES
Board Members
Present: Steve Cross (SC), Carol Richardson (CR), Francis King (FK)
Others
Present: Thressa Abbott, Betty Sienkewiecz, Thelma Ledden, Kevin Malady, Mr and
Ms Chase and Mr and Ms Williams, Jon Willette, Sean & Melissa
Turner
Date reviewed and accepted as
amended: 02/17/04
Meeting held 02/10/2004
1. Meeting called to order at
6:00
2. Kevin Malady was granted an abatement on his above ground pool
($1000)
3. Jay Guber: turned in some paperwork on various issues.
Jay
reported on a change in the building ordinance that would change the fine
structure.
It must be presented at the public hearing to be held by the
planning board.
Various options for getting the needed notices out were
reviewed. the planning bd will have to post the notices 10 prior to the meeting
(2/23/04).
Jay turned in paperwork concerning Flood plains for FEMA.
Two
"intents to harvest" came in for woodlands. Jay turned them in.
Jay will turn
in a summary of all the building permit issued in town.
4. CR reported that
we have heard from FEMA and that they will help pay for the damage to the roads
from the recent flooding.
5. Johnny Ludden spoke with CR about the drug
testing and gave her the contact information for enrolling in the program.
6.
Dottie Chase turned in a petition asking for an Article on the Warrant to change
Pleasant St back to two-way.
7. 6:56 Executive Session
8. 7:06 Executive
Session ends
9. Jon Willette complained about one occasion when Clint
Spaulding hit a tree and a stone on his road - he feels Clint is plowing too far
over onto his land.
10. Thressa Abbott asked about getting a vacuum cleaner
for the town.
Moved, Seconded and Passed to get a vacuum cleaner for the town
up to $150.
11. 07:22 Adjourned
FREEDOM SELECT
BOARD MEETING MINUTES
Board Members Present: Steve Cross
(SC), Carol Richardson (CR), Francis King (FK)
Others Present: Dan Lee, EdD,
Supt of Schools SAD #3, Thelma Ledden, Thressa Abbott, Sally Hadyniak, Tim
Turner, Read Bruegger, Jay Guber
Date reviewed and accepted as
amended: 02/10/04
Meeting held 02/03/2004
1. Meeting called to order at
6:02
2. DL: I am here to meet with you about the school district. Two schools
were recently cited for progress by State Dept of Ed.
First - capital
needs:
Mount View: Out of date - no sprinklers, not Hanicapped accessible,
inappropriate for today's children and programming.
3 Legs: HS, MS, ES.
To
renovate the ES would cost $5M - at 0% interest that wd be $223K/Yr for 10 yrs.
Too expensive.
Distributed worksheet and explained it
Dr Lee explained his
view that because the circuit breaker limits our yearly payment to 0.5 mill of
the SAD valuation, we should build ASAP and as much as possible
Currently
there is no place large enough for graduation; this could be addressed in the
new facility.
CR asked Dr Lee about joining in with their drug testing
program.
DL said he will ask Johnny Ludden for info.
All agreed that it
would be good to have another meeting after the school design decisions are
further along.
3. CR read letter from John Carver to Marriners for us.
4.
CR read a note from ET concerning sections not paved needing paving to prvent
further damage. this was submitted in support of an article asking to fund the
work at the town meeting.
5. CR presented a letter to Northeast Insurance
Company.
6. The audit is scheduled Feb 17th.
7. 7:27
Adjourned
FREEDOM SELECT BOARD MEETING
MINUTES
Board Members
Present: Steve Cross (SC), Carol Richardson (CR), Francis King (FK)
Others
Present: Thelma Ledden, Thressa Abbott , Betty Sienkiewicz, Sally Hadyniak,
Steve Bennett, ElwinTurner
Date reviewed and accepted as
amended: DRAFT
Meeting held 01/27/2004
1. Meeting called to order at
6:02
2. Cindy arranged to have the audit done on Feb 17th at 0800.
3. CR
suggested we have a shortened Selectman's meeting on February 10th, followed by
a budget committe mtg from 1900 until 2100.
4. CR will invite the BC members
to this meeting.
5. CR to talk to Cindy and get the best report possible
showing expenditures by category versus budgeted amount.
6. Reviewed bills
for work on the roads carried over from last week. Based on the sizes of the
equipment the charges are in line with our state rate charts, therefore we
agreed to pay the bills.
7. SC reported that Flora at the Hilltop Store
wanted to buy some dump stickers at $0.90 each and sell them at a profit. MSP
not to do that.
8. Read a note from Sally Hadyniak requesting that the
Freedom Rec filed be named after Red Mitchell.
9. SC also reported that the
Animal Control Officer wanted the town to buy a truck for her to use.
10.
Sally asked if the town would add more to the surface of Deer Hill Rd in the
event that we get FEMA money.
11. It is reported that FEMA will be paying out
on the flooding.
12. CR reported on what actions are needed to respond to a
request for documentation for an emergency event like the recent flood.
13.
FK reported that he had spoken to John Carver's office and they have prepared
the letter to send back to Marriners.
14. Steve Bennett said that the recent
flooding would have caused much more damage if Sibley Rd had not been paved this
year - the whole road would have been washed out.
15. Adjourned
1908
FREEDOM SELECT BOARD MEETING
MINUTES
Board Members
Present: Steve Cross (SC), Carol Richardson (CR), Francis King (FK)
Others
Present: Sally Hadyniak, Thelma Ledden, Elwin Turner, Timothy
Turner
Date reviewed and accepted as
amended: DRAFT
Meeting held 01/20/2004
1. Meeting called to order at
6:20
2. Reviewed a brochure received from Rubb Building systems on Salt/Sand
Storage sheds.
3. Reviewed two abatement requests on business
equipment.
4. CR produced a letter from the Department of Defense, Veteran’s
and Emergency Management, dated 06/03/1998, which had the words in it "our
records indicate that you are the owner of the Sandy Pond Dam." The letter was
addressed to Joseph Sandowski of 634 Old Town Rd, Hudson, ME 04449. This
ownership of the dam was reviewed.
5. Reviewed and processed several other
abatement requests.
6. Reviewed bills from the Animal Shelter and from
MMA.
7. Elwin Turner presented some bills for work done on the Town trucks.
The Board agreed to pay Timothy Turner $25/hr for the work he did on the plow
blade.
8. It was Moved, Seconded and Passed that we set a date for the audit
and arrange to have it done no later than February 10th.
9. Adjourned
7:35
FREEDOM SELECT BOARD MEETING
MINUTES
Board
Members Present: Steve Cross (SC), Carol Richardson (CR), Francis King
(FK)
Others Present: Sally Hadyniak
Date reviewed and accepted as
amended: 01/20/2004
Meeting held
01/13/2004
1. Meeting called to order at
6:00
2. Discussed letter from North East Insurance Company (NEIC) concerning
a supposed accident that is said to have taken place on October 23, 2003.
CR
reported that we had not heard anything about this accident.
Wrote a letter
responding to NEIC.
3. Discussed bills from WTW on the recent road repairs on
Beaver Ridge Rd and other locations.
4. Tabled for further info.
5.
Reviewed MMA membership dues $1096 for 2004.
6. Reviewed letter from KVCOG -
requested payment for 2004 of $791.
7. Reviewed agenda for School Board
meeting on Jan 15th.
8. Reviewed letter from Branter, Tibodeau and
Associated, concerning our annual audit.
9. The Board requests that the Town
Treasurer attend the next meeting to discuss the audit schedule.
10. James
Waterman attended and reported on the fire that occurred today in
Montville.
Jim also asked if the town knew who owned the large earth dam -
the town turned it down as a gift.
11. As the Greeley and Bryant roads were
not paved according to good practices, and Marriners has acknowledges this, and
as the roads were and are in very poor condition after Marriners paved them, and
as Marriners has alleged that the town has agreed to a spot patch and repair
method of addressing these deficiencies,
It is Moved, Seconded and Passed
that the Board of Selectmen authorize John Carver to proceed with litigation
against Marriners paving if Marriners does not agree to fix said roads to the
satisfaction of the town.
12. Adjourned 7:36
FREEDOM SELECT
BOARD MEETING MINUTES
Board Members Present: Steve Cross
(SC), Carol Richardson (CR), Francis King (FK)
Others Present: Sally
Hadyniak, Thelma Ledden, Thressa Abbott, Betty Sienkiewicz, Sean Turner, John
Clark, Elwin Turner, Clint Spaulding, Ingrid Robitaille, Audrey Williams, Peter
Bowers, Dottie , Lendell Chase
Date reviewed and accepted as
amended: 01/13/2004
Meeting held
01/06/2004
1. Meeting called to order at
6:07
2. CR: Showed a fax that was sent to MEDEP concerning two septic systems
(Stan MacDonald and Philbrick/Odle) requested $14,000. Also attached the 3 bids
for Stan MacDonalds as supporting docs.
CR reviewed the bills from the work
and showed the paperwork that had been submitted to the State.
3. CR reviewed
some materials on abatements
Abatements were reviewed and signed for 5
properties.
4. Jim Waterman reported on the new fire truck. Federal funds
were not deposited because the truck savings account is a CD, and Wire transfers
cannot go into CD accts.
It will take a week to get the $121,500 transferred
in to the town checking account.
Jim wants a check made out for $132,110 in
advance of January 14th to have ready for the Firetruck sales rep.
Truck will
be here on the 14th of January.
A full day's of training will be on Thursday
January 15th.
5. Ingrid Robitaille had questions about her taxes. CR reviewed
the assessment.
6. Entered Executive Session: 06:42
7. Restart Meeting at
7:26
8. CR: Article 28 of Town Report does not set wages for snow removal
plow truck drivers. MSP to pay truck drivers $11.50/ hr for winter
plowing.
9. FK reported on discussions w/ Mr Carver on the Marriners paving
issue.
10. Elwin Turner: How far are we going to go on the FEMA Reds? We
should have estimated $40,000 and CR will contact them again and revise up the
estimate of $15,000 she already gave them.
11. John Clark asked how much of
Beaver Ridge Rd was going to be fixed? ET replied that just the section just
above the paving would be fixed. SC mentioned that we might
h