APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
DEC. 31, 2012

CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Price called the meeting to order at 9:14 AM. Present were: Selectmen Ron Price, Clint Spaulding, and Brian Jones. Also, Dave Bridges Comp. Plan, Appeals Bd.), Glen Bridges (Sec.), Clint Spaulding Jr., Erna Keller (Treasurer), Cindy Abbot (Town Clerk), and Steve Bennett. Tim Varney (Public Works) and Bob Hermon joined the meeting later on.

REVIEW MINUTES: Ron/Clint moved to approve the Dec. 3 minutes as written.
Brian/Ron moved to approve the Dec. 17 minutes as written. Motions passed.

GENERAL ASSISTANCE HEARING: Brian explained the reason for the hearing is to review and adopt changes to the general Assistance ordinance. The language of Art. 6 was changed, along with the housing limits, which are now $662/month for 2 people, and $979/month for a family of 4. Brian/Ron moved to adopt the changes, motion passed.
Brian asked the Secretary to find the statute, Title 22, Section 4308 [attached].

In the last year, Freedom has given GA as follows:
$1100 for 2 months rent.
$735 for
3 cases for heating for 6 people
$147.50 for help with 2 electric bills serving 5 people
$25 for household supplies for 2 people

In order to receive reimbursement, the applications have to be properly filled out along with purchase orders; also, there is a possibility of “workfare”.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES: Steve Bennett reported that he met with an attorney who thinks there should be two articles before the Town:
1. To abandon the road
2. To accept the recreational easement.

According to his lawyer, all (10-11) abutters would have to agree to this beforehand. The easement would generally follow the roadway except for the section crossing Dave Bennett’s & Erin Bennett-Wade’s land. Steve still needs to convince those two landowners to agree. Steve wants to be sure there is no burden on abutters, such as liability. A road is going to be expensive to build and maintain, and NRCS won’t cost share it all at once.
Ron mentioned that there must be some guarantee that no one will block the road. Steve intends to gate off both ends; Clint said he assumes abutters will all have keys to the gate.
Ron asked if Sallyann Hadyniak will be agreeable to this easement because a few days ago she prevented a resident from walking a dog at the top of Beaver Ridge Road, the route of the future public easement. Steve said he thought she was on board.

FVFD: The “jaws of life” need repair, to the tune of $400-600.

SCHOOL BOARD REP: Ron reported that Heather Perry has a list of goals for RSU 3 and needs citizens to serve on a committee.

TREASURER’S REPORT: Erna reported:

Payroll for week ending 12/22/12.............................$2119.83
Payroll #1 this week, 12/29/12.................................$2121.97
Payroll #2 12/29/12...................................................$520.76

Beginning checkbook balance...................................$489,487.40
A/P this week.............................................................$6410.31
Ending checkbook balance........................................$483,077.09

There will be another A/P after the office closes today. Brian and Clint offered to return to sign that one.
Vernice was here to help with pre-audit accounting; two pieces of paperwork need to be found for the auditor.
Ron/Clint moved to sign the 3 payrolls in the amount of $2119.83, $2121.97 and $520.76; motion passed.

ROAD COMMISSIONERS: Clint reported that truck #7 is being fixed; a new hose and fitting were needed. The garage floor got cleaned, and Bob was sent out to spread sand/salt.

TOWN CLERK: Cindy reminded the Board that the office will be closed Jan. 1, 2013.
She also asked if the Health Official is supposed to have some medical experience.
Glen offered to research that question.

CEO: Dave Schofield was absent, but the subject of the Boynton barn falling collapsing into the stream was brought up. Clint said he would call Janet Boynton’s kids about it.
Glen asked if there are grants available to remove dangerous buildings or “blight”, but the Board pointed out that the Town has to own the property to apply for a grant.

EMD: Ron Price reported that there are several reports from Christine (EMD). The tabletop exercise regarding the emergency plan in case of the earthen dam being breached took place as planned, but Tara Ayotte (DEP) couldn’t make it.
Clint said that the dam needs some basic maintenance, such as trees removed while there is ice on the pond.

ACO; Brian suggested the ACO be paid out of his salary for in Town travel; usually he’s only paid for travel outside Town limits.
Clint mentioned that Albion pays its ACO $1300/year plus $25 for each summons.

HISTORICAL SOCIETY: Myrick Cross dropped off a budget request and warrant article request from the Historical Society.

CEMETERY COMMITTEE: Cindy told the Board that a request had come in for funding from the Pleasant Hill Cemetery Board of Directors. She thought that there is a law on the books that says a Town that supports maintenance of a cemetery can take over ownership of that cemetery. Glen offered to research that. She also pointed out that the PHC Board is spending money needlessly by sending out solicitations for extra donations on custom printed stationery.
Tim Abbott has volunteered to mow and trim all of the 111 veterans’ graves in Pleasant Hill.

COMP. PLAN: Regarding Steve Bennett’s statement that “new houses paying property taxes is good for a town”, Dave pointed out that countless studies have proven the opposite is true. Single-family dwellings are a net drain on a town’s finances. Brian added, “if there are children”.
He also said that it is not in the best interest of the town to get rid of infrastructure.
Glen thought that the Select Board still hasn’t adopted a policy on the status of roads, but Ron replied that the historical policy is that all discontinued roads maintain a public easement.

OLD BUSINESS: Final abatements came up for discussion. One abatement because of a tractor BETA exemption for Addison Chase, two years totaling $1022. A reduced assessment on the Kekac house abated $62.54. Ken Gould was taxed for years for two building lots, amounting to an abatement of $688.50.
Clint/Ron moved to approve the abatements. Motion passed.
The Board agreed to pay the ACO $7.77 for mileage.
Clint/Brian moved to sign the A/P warrants. Motion carried.

Brian reported a conversation with Vernice about the 2% discount on property taxes, which has been coming out of undesignated funds, while abatements come out of overlay. Vernice suggested the Town could raise and appropriate the discount funds, using a 2-3 year average figure. Brian commented that the discount only benefits residents who have money.

Reviewing the task list, Brian said he has not yet called Mary Ann Bennett or talked to Paul Flynn.

Clint reported that he called Mr. Charles, Road Commissioner for Palermo. Palermo plow trucks/sanders are not coming down over the hill to the Town line, but are turning around at the top of the hill. Clint thinks Freedom shouldn’t sand Palermo’s end of the road, but Ron disagreed for safety reasons. Either way, Mr. Charles said he would take care of it. If it isn’t corrected, Clint will meet with the Palermo Selectmen.

Clint and Brian will come back later to sign the final year-end warrant.

The next meeting will be Jan. 14th at 6 PM.

ADJOURNMENT at 11 AM.

Respectfully submitted, Glen Bridges, Secretary


APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
DECEMBER 17, 2012

CALL TO ORDER: Ron Price called the meeting to order at 6:10 PM. Present were Selectmen Ron Price, Brian Jones, and their Secretary Glen Bridges. Also, Dave Bridges (Comp. Plan, Appeals Board), Erna Keller (Treasurer), Jim Waterman (FVFD), and Steve Bennett. Clint was absent.

REVIEW MINUTES: Review of the Dec. 3 minutes was postponed because Brian was absent from the Dec. 3 meeting, and Clint is absent tonight.

FIRE CHIEF: Jim reported again on the false alarms coming from the Mt. View wood pellet furnace. Dennis Turner has written a letter to Superintendent Perry. Brian will call her Friday to discuss the problem.
Twenty-seven Christmas baskets were delivered.
The ditch for the hydrant hasn’t been finished yet. The latest figures for that project come to $7100.
A trailer caught fire at 333 Old County Rd. because of stove ashes/coals placed too close to the side of the building.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES: Steve Bennett reminded the Board that they had said they would discuss his request to make the Beaver Ridge Rd. a private/abandoned road whenever all three Selectmen were present.

Brian outlined the proper way to proceed:

1. Abutters have to be notified, and signed abutter agreements presented to the Board.
2. The legal recreational easement document (for foot traffic only – into perpetuity) has to be presented to the Board for review.
3. Then the Town can be asked to direct the Board of Selectmen to abandon the road.

Steve reiterated that he has to get an agreement from each of the abutters, and that his recreational easement would apply to only non-motorized vehicles. He also described the road improvement as 6” of gravel with fabric underneath. One-quarter mile would have to go over Dave Bennett’s land and Erin Wade-Bennett’s land. Steve said he isn’t sure if Dave Bennett and Erin will agree to let the public use an easement on their properties; they might prefer to maintain control.

Brian asked if Steve has considered having a third party hold the easement, such as the Sebasticook Land Trust. Brian also said he assumes Steve will foot the bill for any legal costs; Steve agreed.

Conversation turned to the question of the best plow truck turn-around; It’s not a good situation at Ward’s, but better at Pottle’s.

Steve repeated his understanding of the Selectmen’s Manual regarding roads:

1. If a road has no maintenance for 30 years before 1965, the road goes to abutters.
2. If a road has no maintenance for 30 years after 1965, then the road is abandoned but retains a public easement.

The conversation ended with the Board assuring Steve that he could have his lawyer draw up the paperwork with their support.

GENERAL ASSISTANCE: A hearing will be held at the start of the next Select Board meeting, Dec. 31 at 9 AM prior to adopting changes to the program. GA cost the Town $1700 for 2011, and $2400 for 2012, $1000 of that to be reimbursed by the State.

CORRESPONDENCE:
1. Information received about the Maine Dam Repair and Revolving Loan Fund.
2. Ms. Redmond wants to hold a meeting in the annex on Jan. 24 to discuss starting a school in the restored mill building.

HEALTH OFFICER: Brian moved to appoint Frances Walker to the open position; motion passed. She’ll now need to get sworn in.

TREASURER: Erna reported:

Payroll 12/10/12.......................................$1573.25
Payroll 12/17/12........................................$1776.87

Beginning checkbook balance.................$484,505.42
A/P this week...........................................$8863.37
Ending checkbook balance.......................$475,642.05

Ron asked Erna to write a letter to the Paris Farmer’s Market asking for a refund for the poor quality tarp.

The Board discussed the future foreclosure on the Lindholm house, corner Rte. 137 and Pleasant St. The foreclosure papers were served on Tingley in New Hampshire, signed by his sister. That property can be foreclosed Jan. 15, 2013.

Sullivan’s credit for November was $781.

Ron moved to sign the payroll for $1776.87. He also moved to sign the A/P warrant for $8863.37, and to accept the Treasurer’s Report. Motions were seconded by Brian and passed.

PLANNING BOARD: Ron reported that Mary Anne Bennett is interested in the open Planning Board position. Brian will call her.

Ron also reported that the Planning Board has submitted two ordinances; he would like to hold a hearing in February, then a referendum ballot vote in March. The Select Board should review the ordinances together as a Board in mid-January (they were each given a copy).

OLD BUSINESS: Jackie Robbins will go over the paperwork one more time, and then the filing job can be started. The Board is tentatively considering Jackie to fill in to replace Brian’s Assessor position. Brian said the Budget Committee will have to be involved because there will have to be a change in compensation.

Glen asked where the time clock is; the Board thought it is at the Town garage.

Glen asked to return to the subject of Beaver Ridge Road, to express some concerns:

1. Steve keeps quoting the Selectmen’s manual regarding statutes on roads, but
Bill Kelly kept correcting him, saying that the 30 years refers to whether the road has been passable in that time-frame. In addition, Kristen told Ron that even the
recent action (Board vote clarifying the status of discontinues roads) qualifies
under the 30 year rule.
2. How would people access the easement if parking is not allowed at the Hadyniak end, and if Bennett and Bennett-Wade don’t sign on to the easement? There would be no access. Brian thinks parking is OK near Hadyniak’s road, but Ron said there isn’t really room. Both Selectmen agreed this proposal would not work unless Bennett and Bennett-Wade agreed to the easement on their properties.

Discussion turned to the numerous beautiful trails that exist on discontinued roads.

COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: Dave reported that he has been talking to good candidates for the Economic Development Committee, which is charged with developing a 10-year plan. Rick Cross has agreed to serve. He has also talked to Tim Varney, Bill Pickford, Doug Van Horn, and he’ll be calling the Grassis, both Prentice and Tony. Also, Frances Walker is interested. Dave said that he can put the committee together, but emphasized that the Select Board should be very closely involved. The Planning Board will put it on their agenda.
Brian recommended adding Paul Flynn to the list, or at least keep him informed.

The next meeting was set for Dec. 31st, 2012 at 9 AM.

ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 8 PM.



Respectfully submitted,

Glen Bridges, Sec.


APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
DECEMBER 3, 2012

CALL TO ORDER: Ron Price called the meeting to order at 6 PM. Present: Selectmen Ron Price (Chair), and Clint Spaulding. Also Sallyann Hadyniak, Scott Holmes (ACO), Rick Cross (RSU 3 Director), Jim Waterman (FVFD), Dave Bridges (Comp Plan), Chris Spaulding, Erna Keller (Treasurer), Glen Bridges (Secretary), Frances Walker, Steve Bennett, Heidi Brugger. Brian Jones was absent.

REVIEW MINUTES: Clint moved to accept the Nov. 12, 2012 minutes as written, seconded by Ron and passed. Clint moved to accept the Nov. 26 minutes (by Sallyann) with one deletion, seconded by Ron and passed.

SCHOOL DIRECTOR: Rick reported the evaluation of the Superintendent will be completed in December. Rick attended a grant writing workshop, and gave the selectmen his notes from that [attached]. RSU 3 has received a $300,000 grant.
1. The Board approved a new Vision Statement, which is on the school website.
2. The cooperative plan between RSU 3 and Thor-Knox Foundation is in the works.
3. Municipal Leaders and Board Members will meet Dec. 13 at 6 PM at the Thorndike Town Office to work on the next budget.
4. The Chamber Singers Concert will be Dec. 14, 7 PM, at the Freedom Church, and at Mt. View on Dec. 20 at 7 PM.
5. The policy Committee will be focusing on the new State “Bullying Policy”.
6. The Drop-Out committee needs a community member and a parent. Daily Advisory Groups are planned, and early ID of younger students that are behind grade level.

FVFD: Jim Waterman reported that Dennis Turner is concerned about late-night calls from the alarm at Mt. View. The wood boiler system has been leaking smoke and setting off the alarm and the half dozen calls or so are costing money.
The Christmas food baskets will be available on Dec. 15th, with 23-24 boxes for Freedom residents.
Intra State will be inspecting fire distinguishers on Dec. 4.

GENERAL ASSISTANCE: Two emergency applications were approved for heating oil. A GA hearing needs to be held; a date was set for Nov. 17th .

ROAD COMMISSIONERS: Clint reported the trucks are all inspected, the Greeley Rd. culvert fixed, and loader sent to pick up extra gravel. Smithton was back-dragged, and will be graded when it dries out.

ACO: Scott reported that Erna told him there was only $23 left in his budget. He submitted $300 in travel expense for travel inside Freedom. Clint moved, seconded by Ron, to pay the $300. Scott further reported that not much has been happening in Freedom lately.

EMD: Clint reported an award received by Christine for good attendance at County meetings.

HEALTH OFFICER: Frances Walker expressed interest in the job of health officer, and the Board agreed to appoint her.

CITIZENS ISSUES: Steve Bennett attended to the meeting to return to the subject of making the Beaver Ridge Rd. private, and repeated his research and reasons. Heidi Brugger attended to tell the Board that when she was a Selectman, the Board agreed by consensus that the road was abandoned. However there is no written record or minutes of any vote or agreement by consensus to abandon Beaver Ridge Road.
Ron commented that this contradicts Red Mitchell’s historic approach, which was to keep access open for hunting. Clint reminded the Board that they voted to keep the status of discontinued roads as discontinued for maintenance only, and to keep them open as public ways. He is not comfortable with the Board making a decision to abandon a road. He also recited Bill Kelly’s advice, that changing the status of roads is too important to be decided by Selectmen. Steve replied he disagreed with Kelly.
Ron and Clint agreed to wait until Brian is present to discuss this further.

CORRESPONDENCE: Ron reported:
1. An offer to join a Federal Surplus Program for $39 per year. Clint moved to join, seconded by Ron and passed.
2. A service contract offer from Overhead Door. Clint moved to sign the contract. They service the Town Garage doors, and this would probably save money. Motion passed.
3. Resignation letter from Assessor position from Brian (because State Legislators cannot serve as local Assessors).

TOWN CLERK: Cindy reported that nomination papers will be available Dec. 13th. Also, the Freedom Craft Fair is Dec. 8th.

TREASURER’S REPORT: Erna reported:
Payroll Warrant #1 this week……………………………..$3995.79
Payroll Warrant #2 this week……………………………..$1507.10
Beginning checkbook balance………………………………$517,327.71
A/P this week………………………………………………………….$47,678.83
(Includes Dec. school payment)
Ending checkbook balance…………………………………….$469,647.88

Knox paid $2266.67, their 3rd installment. The foreclosure notice has been sent to the New Boston, NH police department to be served to Mr. Tingley.
Clint offered to call RHR Smith to schedule the audit for January. He will also text Ryan to schedule computer repairs and a check of virus protection on the new laptop. Clint moved , seconded by Ron, to sign the payroll warrants. Motion passed. Clint moved to sign the accounts payable (A/P) warrant. Motion carried.
Clint moved to accept the Treasurer’s Report. Motion passed.

COMP. PLAN: Dave reported that he was directed to compile a list of suggested names for two committees, and to create a template of committees to project a 10 year plan. Rick Cross agreed to serve on the Economic Development Committee.
Ron asked what Dave thought of the 11/26 joint meeting; Dave said he was disappointed with the attendance…only one PB member attended (Judy Nilsen).

BUDGET COMMITTEE: The committee needs one member; Willa resigned. Ron reported that the committee got started, reviewed the expense and revenue report. The committee has to figure out how to get something done on roads. The next meetings are Dec. 5 and 12th. However, Clint suggested that they devote one whole Saturday to the work and get it done, with lunch provided. That idea will be proposed.

PLANNING BOARD: On Nov. 26th Judy Nilsen gave each Selectman a copy of the proposed Wind Ordinance and a Commercial Development Review Ordinance.

OLD BUSINESS: The Secretary was asked to write a thank you letter to the quartet, “Buck and a Quarter”, for singing at the Veterans Memorial and for contributing the donation they usually receive to the Veterans Memorial Fund.
Clint predicted that the Pleasant Hill Cemetery Board will be asking for financial help from the Town. Clint said it would be better to ask the Board to turn the cemetery over to the Town, which he predicts will happen eventually anyway. Jon Willette takes good care of Freedom’s cemeteries on a volunteer basis.
Ron reported that he contacted the Paris Farmer’s Union about getting credit for the poor quality plastic tarp. He also contacted Mildred Skidgel, who said she doesn’t want to do anything about selling land until after Jan. 1st.

The next meeting is Dec. 17th at 6:00 PM. Motion to adjourn passed at 7:40 PM.

Respectfully submitted, Glen Bridges, Secretary



Approved Minutes/Freedom Board of Selectmen
November 26, 2012

Those in Attendance were: Chair Ron Price (Selectman), Clint Spaulding, (Selectman) Brian Jones (Selectman) Sallyann Hadyniak (acting secretary) Steve Bennett, Chris Spaulding.

1. The meeting was opened at 7:15 by Ron Price.
2. Dave Schofield was to be contacted regarding a building permit for Pearly Sanborn.
3. Brian Jones cannot serve as an assessor due to being a State Representative.
4. There was a lengthy discussion regarding abatements and supplements,
5. Brian was to meet with Jackie on Monday, December 3, 2012 at 4:00 p.m.
6. Up for discussion is what to do with contigulas lots.
7. Knowlton wants a reassessment.
8. Addison Chase wants to go back 2 year He was abated one year, do we abate him for 3 years? When was it purchased? Tractor?
9. Susan Leman decreased in value,
10. Public hearing Monday, December 3, 2012 to discuss changes to the GA Ordinance. Brian wanted this stated in the minutes, “Selectmen will make changes at the following meeting.
11. Mutual Aid agreement between us and Knox was signed by the Selectmen.
12. A question regarding abatement to Mr. Phillips due to foreclosure on his property. As a courtesy a meeting will be scheduled to meet with the gentlemen.
13. General Assistance gave out $50.00 for heating oil.
14. The Assessor’s will meet at 4:00 p.m. on Monday, December 3, 2012 with Jackie
15. December 10 emergency Dam failure.

TREASURER’S REPORT

1. Payroll Warrant this week is $1,467.07 (this includes clerk, treasurer, cleaning lady and road crew)
2. A/P this week is $6,561.06
3. Beginning checkbook balance $505,949.14
Less A/P this week $ 6,561.06
ENDING CHCKBOOK BALANCE $499,388.08
4. We received a check from Revenue Sharing for November $3,642.11
5. We are at Municipal Labor Law tomorrow in Augusta .
6. What has been decided about Paris Farmers Union bill—It is still in the safe…
7. Expense-Revenue and checking reports are in front of A/P folder

A motion was made by Clint to accept the Payroll and A/P Warrant. 2nd by Brian Jones and all were in favor.

Ron will tend to checking out the cover on the salt and sand pile. The wash out has been fixed on Greeley Road by Tom Clay’s mailbox.

17. The water is rising on Joe Richardson’s side of the road regarding the Beaver dam.
18. Brian will talk to Dave Phillips together with the other two selectmen at Monday’s meeting.
19. The next Selectmen’s meeting will be on Monday, December 3, 2012 at 6:00 p.m.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:45 p.m.by Ron Price, 2nd by Clint and all were in favor.

Respectfully submitted,

Sallyann Hadyniak

Acting Secretary
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APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
NOVEMBER 12, 2012

CALL TO ORDER: Ron Price called the meeting to order at 6:01 PM. Present: Selectmen Ron Price (Chair), Clint Spaulding, and Brian Jones. Also Sallyann Hadyniak, Dave Bridges (Comp Plan, Appeals Bd.), Chris Spaulding, Jim Waterman (FVFD), Erna Keller (Treasurer), and Glen Bridges (Secretary).

REVIEW MINUTES: Brian moved to accept the minutes from Oct. 22, 2012 as written, seconded by Ron and passed.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES: Sallyann announced that Sandy Palmer donated $100 to the flagpole fund.

FVFD: Jim reported an estimated 30 Thanksgiving boxes will be packed this year. Clint’s three sons will be working on that for community service. Jim asked when the Budget Cmte. will want budget figures from the FVFD; not until January, Ron replied.

Jim has looked into purchasing defibrillators (AEDs) for the Town, one for the office, the garage, and the firehouse. The Zoll brand is $600 and is computer assisted. Anyone who uses it should be CPR trained. Jim will request 3 AEDs in his budget for next year.

Ninety-one people attended the Hunters Breakfast; they ran out of some food items.
Eight chimneys have been cleaned.

CORRESPONDENCE: Ron reviewed a stack of correspondence, some of which was obsolete and discarded:

1. The tabletop exercise with the State Assistant Dam Inspector will be Dec. 10th at 8 AM in the office; Clint said the EMD should join the Selectmen for this.
2. Requests have come in for annual donations from non-profits.
3. A past estimate from Pike for tarring Smithton.
4. A paid bill receipt from Lane Gray
5. Contract for credit card machine program.
6. The Waldo County Property Tax form. Brian & Jackie will be meeting at 3 on Friday.
7. An appointment was missed with Joe Richardson regarding his trailer, which was not moved prior to April 1st, so he should be sent a supplemental tax bill.
8. The 2013 State Evaluation has to be filed.

ROAD COMMISSIONERS: Clint reported that rock has to be placed at the end of the new culvert on Greeley Rd. This should have been done previously; now that end has washed out.

Ron moved to have gravel spread over the bump on Smithton to smooth it out, seconded by Brian & passed. Discussion followed about needing a place to stockpile gravel.

TREASURER: Brian complimented the ballots clerks for a job well done. Erna reported:

Payroll for week ending Oct. 29..........................$1423.64
Payroll for week ending Nov. 5...........................$2734.87
Payroll for week ending Nov. 12.........................$2795.76
A/P for week ending Oct. 30...............................$2357.81
A/P for week ending Nov. 6................................$7233.52

Beginning checkbook balance.............................$598,006.49
A/P this week....................................................$92,891.83
Ending checkbook balance.................................$505,114.66

Checks were received from truck excise reimbursement for $40.72 and from 2011 Tree Growth reimbursement for $4634.92.

The Payport system is up and running; the swiper is not here yet, but cards can be processed manually now.

Erna encouraged the Board to switch the Town’s electricity provider to Electricity of Maine.

Erna reported that she has held back the monies from her paycheck and Cindy’s paycheck that make up the raises they each received last March; she will pay it all at one time so they can go shopping.

Brian moved to sign the payroll, seconded by Clint and passed.
Brian moved to sign the A/P warrant, seconded by Clint and passed.

PLANNING BOARD: Meets Nov. 13.

COMP PLAN: Dave asked about having a joint meeting with the Select Board and the Planning Board. Ron suggested November 26. Ron reviewed the Comp. Plan paperwork Dave sent out, and found several things that should be addressed.

RECREATION COMMITTEE: Brian complimented the Committee on the exceptional Veteran’s Day Memorial. Sallyann thanked people for donations of baked goods.

BUDGET COMMITTEE: Doug will be setting up a meeting soon.

PUBLIC WORKS: Clint talked to Clear Span Fabric Structures about a fabric building for the salt and sand pile; a 55’ x 100’ building would cost $74,867.85 installed, with a 20 year guarantee. He’ll also be calling another company. Clint thinks Freedom can qualify for 51% cost sharing from the State.

Erna will ask Ryan to bring the laptop to the office and give the Selectmen a tutorial Wed., Nov. 14 at 8 AM.

OLD BUSINESS: Hague Brochu’s tax bill is still being worked on; Brian will be meeting with Jackie on Friday and will bring it up. Clint said Hague is building a maple house that looks like it might be larger than the footprint of his previous grandfathered building, and possibly larger than his permit allows.

Also, Hague said he would bring in a tax bill proving he paid Letourneau’s taxes, but Clint and Brian agreed that any dispute about that is between Brochu and Letourneau.

Clint pointed out that URIP monies cannot be included in the Town budget; he also would like to see the excise tax monies to be used for road maintenance as excise taxes were originally created for. Ron thought that would drive up the mil rate.

Brian said he has never seen any compelling data about the difference in cost of maintaining paved roads vs. gravel roads. For example, if it costs $55,000 to pave a mile of road that lasts 10 years, how does that $5500 per year compare? Clint replied that gravel roads are much more expensive to maintain and explained that gravel is getting hard to find, and costing $17-18/ton.

Clint reported that the studded tires are ordered for the plow truck.

Brian mentioned the need to have filing done at the office. Clint, seconded by Ron, moved to hire the Secretary for _ day to get the filing done. Brian will contact her to schedule a time when he can show her the filing system.

Ron is still working on creating policies to address changing the status of roads and staff pay.

NEW BUSINESS: Ron reported that Steve Bennett brought in a tax map which he said didn’t include two lots of Steve’s, 24 A and 15A; he drew them in. Brian suggested the deeds be shown to John Miller, the tax map expert, and that he should be taxed for a base lot.

The next meeting is Nov. 19th at 6 PM.

Please note: Other meeting dates: Brian with Jackie Friday Nov. 16 at 3 PM. The Comp. Plan/Select Board/ Planning Board tentatively Nov. 26. Tabletop exercise on dam Dec. 10 at 8 AM.

Motion to adjourn passed at 7:40 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Glen Bridges, Sec.


APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
OCTOBER 22, 2012

CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Price called the meeting to order at 6 PM. Present: Meredith Coffin (UARRC Rep.), Hilary Fleming, Hague Brochu, Myrick Cross, Chris Spaulding, Dave Bridges (Comp. Plan, Appeals Board), Bob & Pam Hermon, Selectmen Ron Price, Clint Spaulding, Brian Jones, and their Secretary, Glen Bridges.

REVIEW MINUTES: Clint moved, seconded by Brian, to accept the minutes from Oct. 8 as written; motion passed.

CITIZENS’ ISSUES: Dave Bridges told of finding a plastic bag containing three turkey carcasses thrown beside Winslow Brook. This was a poaching incident, and the Game Warden was called. Hague Brochu pointed out that “wanton waste” of wild game is against state law.
Hilary said the sign for “blind person” was missing on the west side of their place, and the 35 MPH sign has been vandalized to read 85 MPH. Clint said he would take care of both problems.
Hague Brochu attended to try to clear up his tax bills. He bought one acre from from Petty Letourneau and has a warranty deed, but has been paying taxes on varying acreage, up to 6.9A, and land across the road that he doesn’t own. Several years ago he paid two years of taxes for Willie Letourneau. A long discussion followed. Brian suggested the Assessors find out what happened from 2010-2011, and Ron asked Hague to find the cancelled check that was payment of Letourneau’s taxes.

UARRC DIRECTOR: Meredith, along with her alternate, Hilary, reported, and submitted a written report [attached], that beginning Aug. 1, the new arrangement with Sullivan’s has produced a lot of inconsistencies. Levels of dumpsters were estimated visually (and why would _ full dumpsters be emptied?), dates didn’t match up, and the bill doesn’t match the truck data from Sullivans. Meredith made a request for a meeting with Jerry Sullivan and the Selectmen, and the Board agreed.
Clint suggested the Town could buy its own garbage truck.

CEO: Dave Schofield reported that he met with Hague Brochu, and has been monitoring the progress of the mill restoration. Clint said that a culvert should have been put in on Pleasant Street; he will follow up on that.
Brian reported, in the interest of transparency, that he is building an 8’ x 12’ shed, which doesn’t require a permit, but will be assessed and taxed.

ROAD COMMISSIONERS: Clint reported culverts installed on Greeley and Smithton Roads. Bob Hermon fixed an air valve on truck #7.
Regarding bookkeeping, Clint said URIP monies should not be added into the budget because they are not raised and appropriated.
Brian moved to spend the money needed for a spring helper on truck #8; motion passed. Bob Hermon will follow up and get estimates.
Ron has ordered the laptop for Public Works from Ryan (Belfast Computers) for $400-500.
Dave Bridges asked about the ditch filled in on Mitchell Road; Clint replied that he inspected it, but found it wasn’t interfering with drainage.
The Road Commissioners agreed to accept Dwight Gould’s bid for plowing.

SCHOOL BOARD DIRECTOR: Rick Cross reported Sup. Perry was given the authority to negotiate the sale of the old high school building. Unity will tear it down and build a new town office. A firearms course was approved, and proposed policies were read.
Student trips are available to Costa Rica and Germany, for $2200 and $2800 respectively, which the students have to raise.
Rick was elected to represent the Board at a meeting in Augusta. The teachers signed off on Race to the Top grants.

RSU 3 population is: K-6.........671
7-8..........341
9-12........427
79 students are home-schooled.

Municipal officers met with the School Board to share information and discuss ways of saving money.
Results of the ME School Management Conference:
1. Professional development needs more funding.
2. Teacher preparation programs are needed.
3. Superintendents agreements oppose the Governor’s Commissioner promoting school choice, which could impact public schools.
4. The School Board also opposes virtual (computer) charter schools because they could drain funding from public schools.

TREASURER: Erna was absent, but submitted a report as follows:

Payroll 10/15/12.........................$1819.63
Payroll 10/22/12..........................$3368.68
Warrant 10/19/12......................$1020.00

Beginning checkbook balance...............$581,175.77
A/P warrant..............................................$11,445.79
Ending checkbook balance.....................$569,729.98

A check was received from Maine Revenue Sharing for October for $4537.42
Myrick Cross plans to attend a grant funding/writing workshop in Augusta Nov. 13th.
Also, Erna provided a contract for Clint to give Dwight Gould.

Clint moved, seconded by Ron, to sign the payroll warrant. Ron moved, seconded by Clint, to sign the Oct. 19 warrant for $1020.00. Ron moved, seconded by Brian, to sign the A/P for $11,445.79. Three motions passed.

COMP PLAN: Dave mentioned he sent out an e-mail proposing a meeting with the Select Board and Planning board on Nov. 5.

CEMETERIES: The Pleasant Hill Cemetery Board will be coming to the Town for donations. Clint suggested they should turn that cemetery over to the Town.

BUDGET COMMITTEE: After Nov. 6, the committee will start meeting.

APPEALS BOARD: Dave reported that he and Frances attended a workshop. One important piece of advice for all Boards: Have a lawyer interpret all ordinances.

PUBLIC WORKS: Clint reported that the plow trucks should have studded tires for the ditch side of the road, at a cost of about $500-600 each. Clint will get an estimate.

OLD BUSINESS: Bob Hermon located a used 30’ flagpole for $400 (or less). Brian moved, seconded by Clint to authorize Bob to buy and transport the flagpole for up to $450.

NEW BUSINESS: Brian met with Jackie Robbins about two abatements. Ron moved, seconded by Clint, to approve the abatement for $221. Motion passed.
Brian reported the Property Tax Growth Factor paperwork is done, as is the MMA survey and the 2012 Municipal Evaluation Return.

Ron reported his ongoing research for developing a policy on discontinued roads. Kristin Collins said there is absolutely no obligation to maintain public easements on roads discontinued for maintenance only. Regarding taking action within the last 30 years on a road, Kristen advised that just the Select Board making a decision on a road is considered an action. Kristin advised that the Board should not vote to declare a road abandoned; the Town should vote on that.
Ron explained that on an abandoned road, property owners have the right of access, but some landowners could be put in jeopardy. An abandoned road would belong to the abutting landowners to the center of the road, making it possible for someone to put up a building near the middle of the road, blocking access.
Ron read aloud the May, 2008 and June 2008 Select Board motions and votes confirming the roads open as public ways, votes the Board took following a meeting with Bill Kelly. Ron said he and Kristin are both in agreement that the Town should vote for any change in that declaration. Clint and Brian agreed. Ron will keep working on this and propose a Board policy.
Clint offered his opinion that the Town has a moral obligation to keep roads open for emergency vehicles. Ron pointed out there is no legal obligation.
In the case of the Beaver Hill to Sibley road, Clint suggested the Town could open it up with a bulldozer to address concerns about forest fire.

Ron is continuing research on the duties and job descriptions of the Town clerk and Treasurer. The Town Clerk is in charge of elections; the Select Board appoints the Registrar of Voters on Jan. 1st, every other year. The Registrar can appoint a Deputy Registrar, whose term runs concurrent with the Registrar’s.
Ron will continue work on this and come up with a proposed policy.

The next meeting is Nov. 5, 2012 at 6 PM.

ADJOURNAMENT: Motion to adjourn passed at 8:30 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Glen Bridges, Secretary


APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
OCTOBER 8, 2012

CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Price called the meeting to order at 6:11 PM. Present: Selectmen Ron Price, Brian Jones, and Clint Spaulding. Also Dave Bridges, Pam & Bob Hermon, Erna Keller, Glen Bridges, Jim Waterman.

REVIEW MINUTES: Brian moved, seconded by Clint, to accept the minutes from Sept. 24 as written. Motion carried.

CORRESPONDENCE: Brian reviewed the following:

1. From CMP, the new service is set up and connected.
2. Notice of hazard materials collection (discarded because Freedom has another source for this service.)
3. Letter from Blake & Hazard asking who owns a triangle of land related to Bill Terry’s farm in Montville. Ron will respond to this.
4. A solicitation from NCII Insurance (discarded).
5. Municipal Review Committee seeks members. Brian called Meredith, who was not interested in serving on the MRC Committee.
6. A survey from MMA on the Property Tax Levy Limit; Freedom is covered through June 2013. Brian will respond.
7. Renewal application from MMA for Workmen’s Comp. Brian will take care of it.
8. A request to schedule a “tabletop exercise” of Freedom’s Emergency Action Plan for late Oct. or early Nov. Clint will give this to Christine, EMD.
9. Notice of a “Green School” at UMass.

TOWN CLERK: Angela Eastman weeded The Town Office garden.
There will be a Spirit of America Award ceremony on Oct. 20 in Belfast. Freedom’s Veteran’s Day Memorial will receive an award. The board authorized Cindy to accept the award.
Cindy asked the Board to choose a date for pick-up of the portable toilets. They chose to have them picked up immediately. Ron will call on that.
Choice of colors is needed for the gazebo to be added to the Academy lot; the Selectmen chose the colors of Freedom Academy, maroon and grey.

HEALTH OFFICIAL: Ron will call Annie Jones to see if she will take the Health Officer position.

TREASURER: Erna reported:

Payroll 9/30/12...........................$2199.98
Payroll 10/8/12...........................$2541.05

Beginning checkbook balance.......$593,851.66
A/P 10/8/12................................$19,382.92
Ending checkbook balance............$574,468.74
The A/P for week ending 10/1/12 was $10,985.71. A check was received from MMA, an insurance refund of $1240.
Augusta Business Machines has sent a contract for copier maintenance. (Freedom owns the copier.)
Sullivan’s first bill has arrived since changing their pick-up days, and we have a credit of $622.70. Erna will be reviewing the bill with Meredith.

Clint moved, seconded by Brian, to sign the warrant for $19,382.92. Motion passed.
Clint moved, seconded b Brian, to sign the payroll for $2541.05. Motion passed.
Clint moved to accept the Treasurer’s report, seconded by Brian & passed.

FVFD: Jim reported that about half the piping is installed for the hydrant and covered with sand, and the shut-off valve is installed.
Ron asked how many of the FVFD volunteers have first responders training? Jim replied none, and no one is trained on the defibrillator, and the FD doesn’t have one. Delta Ambulance has to be called. Jim added Albion might have an AED on board.

ROAD COMMISSIONERS: Brian reported that the screen on the dam on Greeley is working; the beavers are gone.
Clint reported that Tony Grassi called with an idea to save the FVFD money by having the Town fix the damaged paving on Mill St. The Selectmen will inspect it.
Also, Clint reported a drainage problem on Smithton road near Sandy Palmer’s place. Alders are bending into the road and water is collecting there.
The sand/salt pile is up and covered but the tarp is poor quality. Ron ordered a 7-mil tarp better than the 6-mil used last year, so he will call the company and see if they made a mistake. Bob Hermon will check the box it came in to see exactly what was sent.
Cold patching is all done for now. The UPM rep was at the MMA conference, and said more cold patch will be available Oct. 26. Bob Herman pointed out the need for a 12’ x 12’ cement pad to store cold patch.
Ron asked if the road crew is equipped with safety vests and signs. Bob Hermon said they can be purchased at Howard’s in Fairfield. Clint said signs and a sign plan are mandated by 2014. We need a count of signs.
Lack of mowing on Waning Rd. was discussed. Clint will call Bo to mow _ mile on Waning.
Brian asked Bob Hermon to look into the cost of a new flagpole and installation for the Town Office and write up an estimate. The Secretary remembered Sallyann Hadyniak had offered to donate a flag.
Dave inquired about a ditch on Mitchell Rd. that was filled in. Clint said a culvert would be required, and he will inspect it.

COMP PLAN: Dave reported that the Canopy Grant Program wouldn’t apply to Freedom.

APPEALS BOARD: Dave reported a training session on Oct. 16 from 4 PM-8:30 PM in Augusta.

PUBLIC WORKS: Clint asked about buying a laptop for Public Works. Ryan advised that a cheap one could be bought for $300, or a stripped down (without games, etc.) version from him for $500. Erna said funds are in the budget from last year for computers. Tim Varney will do the road evaluation with a program downloaded from the State.
Brian moved, seconded by Clint, to authorize the Chairman to purchase a computer for no more than $500. Three favorable votes.

OLD BUSINESS: Clint asked about the proposal to Skidgels. Ron has received no reply, but will call Mildred again, and also Diane.
The snowplowing has to be put out to bid. Ron will ask Cindy to advertize it.
CMP has not yet moved the dangerous wire. Ron will call them.
Brian has one more abatement to resolve with Jackie.
Brian also will take the ambulance off the insurance policy, and search for any missing vehicle titles.
Clint spoke to someone at the MMA conference who told him that taxpayer dollars should not be spent for people to use credit cards, that it is against State law to
spend public monies for private interests.

NEW BUSINESS: Ron asked the Board to consider creating a policy on roads status, and offered to seek legal advice from MMA and Kelly, and come up with a proposed policy. Ron said any changes to road status should be voted on by the Town. Brian and Clint agreed to authorize Ron to proceed.
Ron also pointed out the need to adopt a written policy on paying the Clerk/Excise Tax Collector/Tax Collector and the Treasurer for any work over and above their job descriptions. Brian agreed clarification is needed, and Clint added that the recent conference was not mandated for two people. The Board authorized Ron to do the research and come up with a proposed policy.

ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 7:55, but called back to order for a forgotten agenda item.
Brian moved to go into executive session as authorized by 1 MRSA 405(6) to discuss a personnel matter. The Board returned at 8:21, having made no decisions or votes. Motion to adjourn passed at 8:22 PM.
The next meeting is October 22, 2012.

Respectfully submitted,

Glen Bridges, Secretary


APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
SEPTEMBER 24, 2012

CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 6:07 PM. Present were Selectmen Ron Price, Clint Spaulding, and Brian Jones. Also Jim Waterman (FVFD), Rick Cross (School Board), Meredith Coffin (UARRC), Erna Keller (Treasurer), Dave Bridges (Comp. Plan, Appeals Bd.), Pam & Bob Hermon, Sallyann Hadyniak, and Glen Bridges (Secretary).

REVIEW OF MINUTES: Brian moved to accept the minutes from Sept. 10 as written. Motion passed.

UARRC: Meredith reported the first Sullivan’s bill hasn’t been received yet since they started picking up trash & dumpsters on the same day. The UARRC board is having a problem getting a quorum for meetings. Two towns, Brooks and Dixmont, have no directors. The third baler has been purchased, which will help keep things moving, since plastics take a long time to compress. In the last seven months, Freedom’s recycling has increased.

CORRESPONDENCE: Brian reported the following:
1. A flyer for the opportunity to turn in prescription medications is posted.
2. Info on the Community Development Grant – the Canopy Program -was given to Dave Bridges.
3. A dividend refund was received from MMA insurance for $1240.
4. Unity Barnraisers is holding a day of service on Oct. 13th.

FIRE CHIEF: Jim reported the ambulance sold for $4000, with $500 going to FireTec for commission, and $516 for a new starter. He asked that the vehicle be removed from the Town insurance policy; Brian said he’d take care of that.
A discussion followed about titles to trucks that cannot be found; anything newer than 1995 has to have a title.

TREASURER: Erna looked up Article #13 in the Town report, which says that abatements are to be taken out of overlay; the 2% discounts come out of undesignated funds.
Payroll warrant for 9/17/12 ...................................$1528.52
Payroll 9/24/12.......................................................$2697.56

Beginning checkbook balance.................................$578,826.72
A/P this week...........................................................$20,632.94
Ending checkbook balance......................................$558,193.78

Ryan is coming in at 8 AM to install new virus protection.

A check was received from Revenue Sharing for $1009.08. Also, Erna contacted the police in NH regarding serving foreclosure papers, and was told it is a free service.

Clint moved, seconded by Brian, to pay the payroll warrants and the A/P warrant. Motion carried. Clint/Brian moved to accept the Treasurer’s Report; motion passed.

CEO: Dave said activity in Freedom is quiet. The mill project is on schedule. Soon they will be laying pipe across the stream for a septic system, and the fire hydrant.
Dave needs a pole permit for CMP to be signed by the Selectmen.
Ron inquired about the addition of another mobile home to the Jaranka lot already containing a trailer. Dave said it would need a septic system, or if tying into an existing septic system, the LPI can turn it down. State law says if you add a bedroom, you have to enlarge the septic system to accommodate it. If the second unit is family in need, the owner does not need to subdivide. Once the family situation changes, the Town can make the owner remove the second trailer. Brian pointed out that the property should then be taxed as two improved base house lots.

ROAD COMMISSIONERS: Clint reported the sand pile is going up. A spring is being replaced in the truck, and the Board agreed that a rubber block is also necessary. The cold patch hasn’t come yet.

GENERAL ASSISTANCE: Brian reported one applicant who didn’t qualify.

SCHOOL BOARD DIRECTOR: Myrick thanked the Board for its patience. He has been to one meeting and one committee meeting, and two games, soccer and football.
He is trying to keep up with the paperwork. In Sept. there were two grievances from the teacher’s union.
The agenda is focusing on Standards Based Education, and Independent Study, which basically would be a “school within a school”, allowing for alternative teaching methods to accommodate different kinds of learning abilities. A committee is being appointed to study that.
The Board may be re-visiting the question of school closing going forward to reduce funding and future budgets.
Myrick will be serving on the Policy Committee and the Drop-Out Prevention Committee. He feels the Board is made up of serious, solid members, who work with good spirit.
State funding is going down, mandates are increasing. The Bessey Farm Project is progressing; it will provide agricultural education.
Any complaints can be made to Myrick; he will pass them on to Heather Perry.

PLANNING BOARD: Ron reported that the PB has reviewed about half of the ordinance returned from Bill Kelly. They may not be ready for a vote on Nov. 6.
Brian commented that the PB should have a representative attend Select Board meetings.

COMP. PLAN: Dave asked if there has been any progress on committee appointments. (No.) Dave suggested it would be logical for the Budget Committee to add this to their responsibilities, but groundwork would need to be laid.

BUDGET COMMITTEE: The committee will start meeting after the 11/6 election.

PUBLIC WORKS: Clint suggested the Public Works/Road Commissioners should have their own laptop. Tim Varney is going to need a newer one for the road evaluation program.
Random drug testing was discussed. Clint said truck drivers have to be tested. Brian asked about the Fire dept., if they are randomly tested. Brian will talk to Jim about it.

OLD BUSINESS: The question of the credit card swipe machine was discussed. Clint pointed out that it was already approved, and he feels it is up to the customer whether to use it or not. The customer has to sign an agreement to be sure they are aware of the 2.75% charge. Ron moved to take the question off the table (from last meeting), and moved to go ahead with the swipe machine, seconded by Clint, and passed.

Brian reported that nearly all of the abatements are finished. He went through a neat stack of 16 or more abatement requests and paperwork, each of which the Board signed. Now there will be no problem running over on overlay.
Brian also reported that Jackie Robbins called Nancy Bailey Farrar and left a message, and will follow up on that abatement.
Ron received a complaint from a resident whose property is for sale for $85,000, but was assessed at $112,000.

John Miller spent time in the office doing research for tax maps today.

Motion to adjourn passed at 7:30 PM. The next meeting is October 8th.

Respectfully submitted,

Glen Bridges, Sec.


APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
SEPT. 10, 2012

CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 6:15 PM. Present: Selectmen Ron Price, Clint Spaulding, Brian Jones. Bob Hermon, Rich Spinelli, Donna & Glenn Sporie, Dave Bridges (Appeals Bd. & Comp Plan), Erna Keller (Treasurer), Sallyann Hadyniak, Fire Chief Waterman, Glen Bridges (Secretary).

REVIEW MINUTES: Ron moved, seconded by Brian, to accept the 8/27/12 minutes as written, to be placed on file.

CORRESPONDENCE:
1. KVCOG asking for nominations for new members to join the General Assembly, which sets policy. Brian volunteered. Assembly meets annually, next meeting is Sept 25 at 9 AM at the Alfond Boys & Girls Club.
2. Cindy & Erna will be attending a conference at Sugar Loaf for Elections Officials. Erna is a deputy Registrar. Brian moved, seconded by Ron, to authorize Cindy & Erna to attend the conference.
3. Regarding moving the electric service to the Town Garage, the required information was sent in. Now CMP is requiring a notarized easement deed.
4. Ron communicated with CMP, objecting to paying $2100 for a service (moving the wire from above the sand pile) which being a dangerous situation, should have been free. Brian moved to ask Ron to sign the document for CMP on behalf of the Selectmen, have Erna notarize it, and keep a copy for our records. Ron seconded; motion passed.
5. Regarding the credit card machine: The cost for application to TRIO is $500, $125 to install, and $100 annually. The user fee is 2.75%. Erna pointed out that this has already been discussed. Brian moved to table the subject until the minutes of the original action are found. Motion passed.
6. Brian is trying to set up a meeting with Jackie Robbins. A letter was received from the Waldo County Court of County with form to be filled out called the County Tax Property Growth Factor Form, which he will refer to Jackie. Ron suggested all the Assessors meet with her.
7. There is a General Assistance workshop on October 1 from 9-12 in Thorndike. Cindy would like to attend, and have Joanne tend the office.
8. MMA sent a notice regarding Tree Growth re-certification.
9. A ballot was received for the Waldo County Budget Committee. Brian nominated Ron as a write-in candidate, seconded by Clint & passed.
10. A nomination is needed for a member of the MERC Board; Brian will talk to Meredith.
11. Notice was received that Freedom is a member of 2 class-actions lawsuits, against JP Morgan and Wells Fargo.
12. The Municipal Valuation Survey was received.
13. Notices for Christine regarding Emergency Management.

FIRE CHIEF: A barn was burned at 21 Pleasant St. All the toxic materials were removed. Ron asked about progress on the new hydrant. Jim replied that an earthen berm has been built behind the dam. The pipe will be run within a week or so.
Rich Spinelli reported that he has negotiated with the buyer in NJ on the ambulance, who wants a new battery, and will pay $4000. Jim thinks he can get a battery for $150. Ron asked if the battery couldn’t be charged? He will loan them his trickle-charger. [Note: later a motion passed to buy a new battery]
The Secretary inquired what a homeowner should buy for a home fire extinguisher. Jim said there are two kinds, one that can be re-charged, available from Intra-State. and another, Kidde, that is for single use, from Home Depot.

TREASURER: Erna reported:
Payroll 9/3/12..........................................$1599.67
Payroll 9/10/12........................................$3401.84

Beginning checkbook balance...................$559,679.66
A/P (Accounts Payable)............................$49,172.63
Ending checkbook balance........................$510,507.03

Checks were received from Dept. of Corrections for $10.68, Black Hills Corp. for $39.96, and Knox, for FVFD Capital Improvement Account for $2266.66.
Erna needs to know if Selectmen are going to attend the Annual conference on Wed. and Thurs. October 3-4. Brian can’t attend, Ron will attend, and Clint is thinking about it.
The subject came up that the overlay of $25,000 has already being used up. $12,000 has been for 2% discounts, and $16,000 for abatements. Ron asked why the high figure for abatements? Some are for personal property. Brian said more abatements need to be settled; Brian asked Erna to ask Vernice what account this money should come from-Erna agreed. The Town Report did not specify where the money should come from in the article on discounts, but it was in the budget.
Erna found the July 30 minutes, which have the discussion/decision on the swipe machine.
Brian moved to sign the payroll warrant for $3401.84 and the A/P warrant for $49,172.63, seconded by Clint & passed.

ROAD COMMISSIONERS: Clint has received a complaint about potholes on Waning Road. There is about $12,000 left in summer roads account. Clint can get 23 tons of cold patch for $2700. Grading should cost $2000, culvert on Greeley also about $2000. Ron moved to authorize Clint to purchase cold patch. Motion passed.
Brian moved to go into executive session under the authority of MRSA 405-6A to discuss a personnel matter/road issue. The Board returned in 15 minutes; no decisions were made or votes taken.
Clint talked about wood cut and left in the Town road right-of-way. He said that after 30 days, any one can help themselves to it. Brian suggested having a store of firewood for General Assistance applicants.

GENERAL ASSISTANCE: Brian reported one pending case.

PLANNING BOARD: The wind ordinance has come back from Bill Kelly; Ron passed out copies to the Board. Clint suggested the Board review the document, and Ron added that the PB will probably want to schedule a public hearing.

RECREATION COMMITTEE, BICENTENNIAL, HISTORICAL SOCIETY: Sallyann reported that all three committees are meeting and planning.

CEMETERIES: The cemeteries have been well cared for by Jon Willette.

APPEALS BOARD: Dave Bridges reported that the recent meeting elected new officers – Dave as Chair, Mike Smith as Vice-Chair, and Tim Biggs as Secretary. Frances did not attend the meeting. Her term is up, so if she wants to be re-appointed, she should send a letter to the Select Board.

PUBLIC WORKS: Ron brought up his request to get together with Tim Varney to evaluate the Town roads. Clint suggested getting prices for work this year, but Ron said there is no money for more work this year. Ron said the Town wants to see a detailed plan for road improvements to propose at the next Town meeting. A long discussion followed about how to approach the Town for needed road improvements.
Dave pointed out that the Comp Plan calls for a ten-year plan, and also that the Budget Committee is supposed to add economic development to its charge.

CODE ENFORCEMENT: Dave Schofield is absent, but Ron posed a question regarding the two-acre minimum lot size requirement. Clint pointed out that any lots created before the ordinance was adopted are grandfathered. Ron asked what if, for example, you have a mobile home on a one-acre grandfathered lot, and bring in another trailer. Clint remembered from Jay Guber that the laws are different if it’s family, and thinks that is State law. Brian offered to look into this, and suggested it might be an issue for the Planning Board.

OLD BUSINESS: Ron moved to hire John Miller to update the tax maps back to 2005, and to maintain them yearly. The Board agreed that Miller offered to go back for $500 per year ($3500), and $400 per year going forward. Brian seconded; motion passed.
Brian mentioned that a lot of clerical work has to be done to support Miller’s work, mainly pulling out land splits from commitment book. Ron will pin down the costs when he talks to John Miller.
Abatements were discussed, and Brian had other applications that were more complicated. Personal property excise should be paid by April 1; after that, it goes onto the property tax bill. Brian said the Board needs to make it known to the Town that excise has to be paid by April 1.
Erna mentioned that the abatement for Nancy Bailey Farrar has never been addressed; her property card never corrected. Brian said there is no record of an abatement to Nancy; it is not the Assessors responsibility to contact tax payers. Ron said he will call Nancy.
Rich Spinelli felt that buying a new battery would be necessary to sell the ambulance. Ron moved to authorize the FVFD to buy a new battery; motion passed.
Ron brought up the discussion with Mr. Bennett at the last meeting about his request to make the Beaver Ridge Road private. Ron pointed out that the Board needs to establish a policy on how to handle all discontinued roads, and he would like all the information researched in regard to what this Board and previous Boards have done about this issue, so that an intelligent decision can be made. There also should be guidelines for maintenance on private roads to insure passage by emergency vehicles.
Ron said a few years ago the Board voted on the status of all discontinued Town roads, that they remain open for public access. Clint added that letters signed by one Selectman are not legal.
The Secretary offered to pull together all the official records on this subject.

Erna asked if the Board was going to settle the credit card machine question and pointed out that the Board voted on 7/30/12 to spend up to $1000. Ron replied that it’s tabled for now.

The next meeting will be September 24 at 6 PM.

Motion to adjourn passed at 8:50.

Respectfully submitted,

Glen Bridges, Sec.



APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
AUGUST 27, 2012

CALL TO ORDER: Ron Price called the meeting to order. Present were Selectmen Ron Price (Chair) and Brian Jones, their Secretary, Glen Bridges. [Clint Spaulding was on vacation]. Also present was Fire Chief Jim Waterman, Dave Bridges (Comp. Plan), Sallyann Hadyniak, and Steve Bennett.

REVIEW MINUTES: Brian moved to accept the minutes from August 13th, but to delete the date connected to his upcoming meeting with DHHS; motion passed.

UPDATING OF TAX MAPS: Ron introduced John Miller, who has been doing independent mapping for about 55 towns for 23 years. Prior to that, John said he worked for Sewell doing aerial mapping as a pilot/mapper.
Freedom’s tax maps were originally done in 1979, with some work by Tony Neves since then. Brian suggested Tony be called to see where he left off; John explained that it would only take some research into the tax commitment books picking out ‘land splits’, meaning the lots divided off (i.e. Map 8, Lot 3-2). Discussion followed about past subdivisions, with uncertainty about how many years to go back.
Regarding the cost to the Town, John summarized that he would update the mylars, and create a set of large maps, small copies, and transfer the maps to a PDF computer file, so anyone could access them via computer. He estimated that he could research land splits and bring the maps up to date for $500/year, then offered to do it for $400 per year. Ron replied that the Board’s decision will wait until the absent Board member is back, and he will call Mr. Miller.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES: Steve Bennett’s issue is that his sugar house should be assessed on his Beaver Hill Plantation LLC, which is a 2A base lot, 15A in tree growth, and the sugar house. Brian replied that he has tried to call Jackie to make an appointment.
Steve then returned the subject of turning the discontinued town road from Sallyann’s on Beaver Hill Road to Sibley into a private road. His plan would be to improve the road with cost-sharing from Waldo County NRCS to their standards for woodlot use, although currently there is no funding, Steve hopes there will be in the future. He would put gates at each end, with limited access for landowners, and an easement for non-motorized recreation. The first 600-1000’ would be built on private property. A road association would be put in place for sharing maintenance costs. Steve also suggested that a road would protect the land from forest fire, which he sees as a real threat.
Ron asked how many property owners would be involved? Steve replied, on the north side – Erin Wade-Bennett, Rick Martin, Sallyann Hadyniak, Chuck Hadyniak, Dave Pottle. On the south side – Waller & Clark, Lois Stevens, Beaver Ridge Landowner LLC, Ron Price, Steve Bennett, Ron Price again.
The history of the road and state law was discussed at length, as well as letters from Red Mitchell. Steve said a previous Board, in 1997, had declared the road abandoned in a letter, but hadn’t registered that letter at the county register of deeds. Ron commented that this letter was news to him, and asked to see the 1997 letter.
Steve said that Bill Kelly considered the road abandoned. Sallyann suggested that the Town “wants it both ways”, to use it but not pay to maintain it.
Brian expressed his concern that this is not a money issue, but an access issue. Oak Lane, as an example, is a beautiful trail to walk. To give away the public access and get nothing in return does the Town a disservice, for no gain at all. Some beautiful trails could be closed to public access.
Ron pointed out that people can walk on any land that is not posted.
Brian concluded that the Board should not take any action without a full Board present, and asked Steve to show the Selectmen all the letters he mentioned and noted that it would be helpful if the route of the road was marked with stakes. Brian also wondered if previous Board actions would still be in effect. The Secretary reminded the Board that there was a recent vote clarifying that the discontinued Town roads are all still open to public access; Ron replied the they didn’t add any roads to that vote.

FVFD: Jim Waterman reported that the Fire Dept. has been visiting mutual aid Towns to get a better understanding of what equipment each Town has. This will help improve mutual aid.
Jim got a call from NJ with an offer of $3500 for the diesel ambulance, which is priced at a low of $7500, with 109,000 miles, and runs “great”. About $3000 has been invested in maintenance. After some discussion, the consensus was for Jim to approach Rich Spinelli to see if he would volunteer to handle the negotiating.
Jim reported that there has been some digging by an excavator for the new hydrant. Something has to be done to hold back water behind the dam, then volunteers can help set the piping. The job can be done for under $10,000 (materials were about $4500).
Jim also reported that the Bureau of Labor visited the Liberty Fire Dept., so Freedom might get a visit.

ROAD COMMISSIONERS: Clint mentioned to Ron that Matt Lee has the time to grade the roads. Ron questioned if there is more gravel needed on Smithton; he suggested putting Bob Hermon in charge of that. Also, Bob Hermon needed a set of off-set wrenches for about $100, and was authorized to purchase them.
Lastly, Ron would like the road evaluation done; Brian pointed out that the Town wants to see a detailed report.

TAX COLLECTOR: Ron reported that Beaver Ridge Wind has paid its $157,000 in taxes, and also donated $5000 toward the new fire hydrant.

GENERAL ASSISTANCE: Ron mentioned a problem of a check being sent, but never credited to the intended account.

HEALTH OFFICER: Ron reported that West Nile Virus is an ongoing concern, as is rabies in raccoons, skunks, etc.

SCHOOL BOARD DIRECTOR: Myrick’s wife is not doing well at all; Kathy doesn’t want to continue until September. It’s a wait-and-see situation.

BICENTENNIAL: Sallyann reported they are meeting and working on it.

RECREATION COMMITTEE: The committee is working on plans for a celebration on Veteran’s Day, to be held annually.

PLANNING BOARD: Ron asked if the PB is still working on the water extraction ordinance, but Brian didn’t know. Ron reported that the wind ordinance is at the lawyer’s office. Bill Kelly asked how much time the Board wants put into their critique; Ron requested that it be made presentable for a Town vote. Kelly also asked if there will be a competing ordinance, to which Ron replied ‘not at this point in time’.
A bill was received from Kelly for $305 for a telephone conference with Brian, a meeting with Ron about tax-acquired properties, and review of a foreclosure documents. While not cheap, Kelly & Collins will defend the Board, while MMA will not, Brian pointed out.

CEMETERY COMMITTEE: Sallyann reported a phone conversation with Bob Couturier, who misunderstood her column regarding needing a volunteer to head up the Cemetery Committee. He thought she was referring to the Pleasant Hill Cemetery, but she makes sure to specify Town cemeteries vs. Pleasant Hill.

APPEALS BOARD: Dave reported a meeting will be held Aug. 28th. Sallyann said Mike Smith tried to get sworn in, but there were no appointment papers prepared.

OLD BUSINESS: An offer has been sent to Mildred Skidgel for the purchase of
1/3 acre of land.
Ron apologized for what he termed a “mess” with CMP. They had a truck near the Town garage last fall looking at a wire that crosses the stream, so he talked to them about the dangerous wire that crosses over the sand pile. They said they’d take care of it when they came back, but that never happened. So he called CMP and arranged to meet a representative, who quoted $2000-2100 to move the wire. In the meantime, Ron talked to Tom LaFrenier, who said a dangerous situation should be taken care of for free, and he could arrange that. Then Tom was gone on a job for 2 weeks. When he came back he said the free repair was all set up. Meanwhile, the check had been sent to CMP, and Ron thinks CMP will not want to send it back. Hopefully this can be worked out.
Dave Schofield reported on the waste oil tank on the former Letourneau property, and he will contact the owner, Ron Vals.

NEW BUSINESS: Ron had the opportunity to talk to someone who puts up hoop buildings like they have in Knox, who offered to inspect Freedom’s sand pad and estimate what it would cost to cover it.

TREASURER’S REPORT: Erna reported:
Payroll 8/18/12.......................................$3040.82
Payroll 8/25/12.......................................$1575.70

Beginning checkbook balance...............$518,491.51
Accounts Payable....................................$13,911.38
Ending checkbook balance....................$504,580.13

The A/P for Aug. 16 was $1222 to Registry of Deeds for 71 liens, and 23 discharges of liens. Discharges are caught up now back to 1997.
Receipts: Beaver Ridge Wind sent their $5000 donation. Revenue Sharing was received for $3547.16, and the Veterans Exemptions Reimbursement for $762.
Ron moved to accept the Treasurer’s report, and to sign the A/P warrant for $13,911.38, plus two payrolls for $1575.70 and $3040.82. Motion passed.

ADJOURN: Prior to adjourning, the Board had a brief discussion about a current problem involving the status of a couple of GA checks. Brian will be meeting with Ellen from DHHS on Thursday for an informal audit of Freedom’s General Assistance program.

The next meeting is Sept. 10, 2012 at 6 PM. Motion to adjourn passed at 8:20 PM.

Respectfully submitted, Glen Bridges, Secretary


APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
AUGUST 13, 2012

CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Price called the meeting to order at 6:20 PM. Present were: Meredith Coffin (UARRC), Bob Hermon, Owen Freeman, Fire Chief Waterman, Richard Spinelli, Mike Smith, Erna Keller (Treasurer), Dave Schofield (CEO), Dave Bridges (Comp. Plan), Selectmen Ron Price, Clint Spaulding, and Brian Jones, and Glen Bridges (Secretary).

REVIEW MINUTES: The minutes from July 30, 2012 were approved as written, to be filed.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES: None.

FIRE CHIEF: All of the materials are in for the new hydrant; cost was $4455.10.
The CEO approved using volunteer FVFD labor to help install it. Brian said they are not sure yet if they are going to drain the millpond.
Several inquiries have come in on the ambulance, from Las Vegas and New Jersey. The price listed is $8500, and the Select Board agreed that it should not be sold for under $7500.
Ron mentioned that he still plans to give Jim an inventory of all flammable materials at Ingraham Equipment. Oil is all there is, and no chemicals except hay preservative.

CEO and LPI: Dave reported that he was asked to account for his time spent: He gave out 18 building permits, mostly for outbuildings. Also 11 plumbing permits (5 subsurface and 6 internal pumping).
Dave checked a tank today which looks like it holds used oil. He is going to contact the landowner.
Ron inquired if an entrance road to a subdivision has to meet any specifications?
What width? Jim Waterman thought a road has to be 30’ wide, and cleared above.
Clint asked if a portable canvas structure needs a permit. Yes, because greenhouses do. A permit costs between $15 and $25.

TREASURER’S REPORT: Erna reported:

Payroll August 6..........................................$2581.26
Payroll August 13........................................$1627.85

Beginning checkbook balance.......................$176,795.24
Accounts Payable (A/P)................................$120,685.03
Ending checkbook balance............................$56,110.21

1. Later this week there will be another A/P for liens.
2. The State Elections Convention is coming up for Cindy and Erna, which they are required to attend every two years. The convention is two days at Sugarloaf, and they would like to spend two nights ($154). The cost to attend is $160 for both.

Clint moved to accept the Treasurer’s report, seconded by Brian & passed. Ron moved, seconded by Clint to sign both warrants; motion passed.

ROAD COMMISSIONERS: Clint reported the ditches on Rollins Rd. have been cleaned out. The bid price for salt is $59.96 per ton, delivered. Roads have to be graded, and one culvert replaced, depending on the balance in the roads account.
The Town mower has a broker front axle. Clint would like to look at a commercial mower. Discussion followed about the better quality and warrantee of the Cub Cadets at Ingraham Equipment than Tractor Supply. A commercial mower would be able to mow the old dumpsite, a job we have to pay for now.
Brian moved to authorize Clint to purchase a mower, not to exceed $4200. Clint seconded, and motion passed, with Ron recusing himself.
Clint reported also that 2 new loader tires have been purchased for $815 each. A sandblaster had to be rented to clean the loader wheels.
The beaver cage is built, but the road crew can’t install it with equipment that is leaking oil. Clint recommends hiring a pulp truck to install the cage. Ron moved the authorize Clint to “get ‘er done”. Motion was seconded by Brian and passed.

TOWN CLERK AND TAX COLLECTOR: Paid taxes total $140,427.65, with 121 property owners paying early so far.

GENERAL ASSISTANCE: Brian reported two applications. He will be meeting with Ellen (DHHS) for an informal audit. Brian anticipates more need for heating fuel assistance this winter.

HEALTH OFFICIAL: Ron is still looking for a person interested in this job. He reported that the State is baiting certain areas of Maine with a rabies vaccine. He also warned of the West Nile Virus, carried by mosquitoes from infected birds. Cover up and use a mosquito repellant.

SOLID WASTE: Meredith reported that the agreement (Sullivans x Freedom Selectmen) has been signed. A third baler is being purchased for the recycling center. The issue of penalties will come up in September.

SCHOOL BOARD: Ron reported that Kathy, filling in for Myrick Cross, would like to be finished this month. Ron will talk to Myrick about starting his term on the Board.
No one from Freedom attended the meeting in Waldo regarding the school finances. Kathy Littlefield didn’t think it would be a productive meeting. Ron commented that the funding problems won’t be solved at the municipal level.
Brian sat down with Heather Perry and learned about the budget, which, as he pointed out, is voted on by the 11 towns. The budget is up 7%. In 2004 the State share was 55%; now it is 44%.

PLANNING BOARD: The Planning Board’s wind ordinance has been sent to Bill Kelly’s office for review. Clint would like the Planning Board to review the Town Subdivision Ordinance to see if there are standards for new roads, and if not, to add standards. Clint will contact the Planning Board.
Ron suggested that the CEO should inform each applicant for building permits about the status of their road. Glen suggested a brochure with that info, and more, for new residents.

APPEALS BOARD: Dave reported that Addison is setting up a meeting. Mike Smith and Tim Biggs need appointment papers signed. Mike was in attendance, and was asked by the Board to give them written notice of his interest in serving again.

PUBLIC WORKS: Clint will set up a time to inspect roads with Tim Varney, and to use the State evaluation process. Erna commented that the laptop might not hold a charge for them, but Bob Hermon thought they could use an inverter plugged in to the truck.

OLD BUSINESS: Several projects are in the works: tax map updating, negotiating with Skidgels, and reviewing the Kleinschmidt report on the earthen dam.

Ron raised the issue of the danger of propane tanks speeding through Freedom from a proposed 14 story Liquid Propane Gas tank in Searsport. Discussion followed, boiling down to the real problem being that trucks do not obey the speed limit in the center of Town, and the police do not enforce it. Further, Brian concluded, and the Board agreed, that opposition to the tank project could be petitioned by the Town, but is not an issue the Select Board should address.
The discussion concluded that addressing the existing speeding problem would be appropriate; Ron will call the Sheriff’s office and the State Police to enforce the speed limit.

The next meeting will be August 27 at 6 PM.

Motion to adjourn passed at 8:10 PM.


Respectfully submitted,
Glen Bridges, Sec.


APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
JULY 30, 2012

CALL TO ORDER: Ron called the meeting to order at 6:02 PM. Selectmen Ron Price (Chair), Clint Spaulding, and Brian Jones were in attendance, along with Chris Spaulding, Dave Bridges (Comp. Plan), Scott Holmes (ACO), Rich Spinelli, Jim Waterman (Fire Chief), Dave Bennett, Sallyann Hadyniak, Jerry Sullivan, Gerald Gould, Viola Greeley and Lorraine Overlock (both Historical Society), Erna Keller (Treasurer) and Glen Bridges (Sec.).

REVIEW MINUTES: The minutes from July 16 were reviewed with one correction: Lee Bros. changed to Eagle Rental under “Road Commissioners”, and approved.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES: Hague Brochu said that he owns one acre, and for 5 years has been paying taxes on 4.5 to 5 acres. His acreage is spelled out in his a warrantee deed. He also made a complaint that there is an illegal waste oil tank on the former Petty Letourneau property. Ron replied that the Assessors will study the history and get it figured out within two weeks.

Glen Bridges urged the Board to familiarize themselves with the potential hazard
posed by 144 tanker trucks per day carrying propane from the proposed 14-story propane storage tank in Searsport. As it is, tanker trucks speed through Freedom on the narrow bridge on #137, making it dangerous already. This increase is a safety concern to numerous towns, and they are expressing their opposition to the project.

WASTE MANAGEMENT: Jerry Sullivan and the Board agreed they all are comfortable with the agreement drawn up by Meredith and Sullivans. Brian moved, seconded by Clint, to sign it; motion passed, and all parties signed the agreement.

FIRE CHIEF: Beaver Ridge planned to make their donation for the hydrant as soon as they received Freedom’s letter of acceptance & thank you, which has been sent. Dave Bennett said the cost will be $4255 and $200 estimated for freight. The Board only needs to sign the warrant and provide the Town’s tax-exempt number.

ACO: Scott had a call from South Freedom about a bat in someone’s house. Ron asked him to follow up to be sure no one was bitten. Scott warned to beware of the unusual behavior of rabid animals.

CEO: Dave not present, but said he would start coming to meetings.

ROAD COMMISSIONERS: Smithton Rd. is finished, and the culvert is in on Rollins Rd. Bob Hermon will be working on the screen for the culvert (beaver dam) on Greeley.

Ron moved to inspect Smithton and Mitchell, have Tim Varney run both roads through the state evaluation system, and propose to the Town to tar those 2 roads. Brian seconded, motion passed.

HISTORICAL SOCIETY: Lorraine and Viola explained the need for storage until the restoration on the old meetinghouse is complete. Ron replied that they will try to accommodate that, but that they also need space for an EMD office. Cindy has to be consulted about this.

HEALTH OFFICER: Ron repeated the warning about the increase of rabid animals in the area, and also mentioned that whooping cough is increasing in Maine. Both children and adults should be vaccinated; it is especially dangerous for young children.

SCHOOL BOARD: The Town of Waldo is considering withdrawal from RSU 3 and is meeting with Heather Perry on Aug. 8 at 6 PM. The meeting with Selectmen on July 16 focused on how to mitigate funding shifts, and finding ways to advocate in the legislature.
Ron commented that the school has a good Board of Directors who try to keep cost down. Rather that “shoot the messenger”, this needs to be solved at the State level.

CORRESPONDENCE:
1. The preliminary 2013 State evaluation was received. It totals $59,100,000, up from $57,218,000 in 2012. Ron will call Mike Rogers to see what caused the increase. Brian said the cause is recent sales; our taxation ratio is about 94%, which is good.
2. A letter from MMA Property and Casualty Insurance.
3. Notice of a meeting for Meredith with MERC on August 11.
4. A letter from Dave Rowley offering to help Christine on the evacuation plan for the earthen dam.

TREASURER’S REPORT: Erna reported:
Payroll July 23, 2012...................................$3150.40
Payroll July 30, 2012...................................$1958.86
A/P July 27...................................................$1911.10

Beginning checkbook balance.....................$90,508.92
A/P this week...............................................$41,149.07
Ending checkbook balance..........................$49,359.07

Checks received from the State were $8118 for 2011 Homestead reimbursement, and $6626.39 Revenue Sharing.

Erna urged the Board to attend the 76th Annual MMA Convention Oct. 3-4 in Augusta, which has many informative workshops and vendors.
Also, there are upcoming workshops for Planning Boards (Oct. 10), Boards of Appeals (Oct. 16), and Grant Funding and Writing (Nov. 13).

Legal advice has come in about the foreclosure process. After discussion, Brian moved, seconded by Clint, to follow the Town attorney’s directions.

The Board and Erna discussed acquisition of a credit card machine. The user would pay the fee to use their card. Brian moved to authorize the Treasurer to spend up to $1000 to set up the credit card system, or to come back to the Board if it will cost more than that. Ron seconded, motion passed.

Regarding costs for recent road repairs, Clint said that the bills are not in yet for culverts and fabric, and estimated that the gravel will cost about $13,000.

Ron moved to pay the payroll of $1958.86, seconded by Brian, and passed.
Ron moved to pay the A/P warrant of $41,149.85, but not to pay any bills without a W-9, seconded by Brian, and passed. (Anyone paid over $600 must have a W-9.)

Erna also reported that 13 lien notices sent by certified mail came back. Now they have to be sent again with a certificate of mailing, another $14.95, according to the lawyer.

The tax bills have been mailed out today.

EXECUTIVE SESSION: Clint moved to go into an executive session on a personnel matter with Bob Hermon under the authority of 1 MRSA 405(6) A. Motion passed; the Board returned in a few minutes. No decisions were made nor actions taken.

EMD: Christine attended a regular monthly meeting. There is no FEMA money available. The evacuation plan for the earthen dam has to be renewed.

APPEALS BOARD: The chair has not called a meeting or replied to Brian’s letter. The Vice-chair can call the meeting.

OLD BUSINESS: Brian complimented Clint and the Public Works Dept. for the quality job on Smithton Road.

The Board scheduled a work session for Aug. 7, 2012 at 4 PM.

Ron talked to CMP; there is now a light on the Veteran’s Memorial.

The beaver dam problem on Greeley seems to be solved for now.

Ron asked what the situation is with the loader; Bob Herman replied that it is not leaking.

NEW BUSINESS: The Planning Board Chair sent Ron a copy of the proposed wind ordinance with a request to have it reviewed by the Town attorney. Ron, though he will not vote, said he has the right to express his opinion, and noted that the Planning Board did not use any part of the Selectmen’s ordinance, and that there are errors and typos in it that perhaps the PB should correct first. Brian moved to take one week to review the ordinance and decide at the work session to send it on to the lawyer. Clint seconded, motion passed with Ron recusing himself.

Ron contacted a tax map professional from Newburg regarding updating Freedom’s tax maps every year.

The next regular meeting is August 13, 2012 at 6 PM, and the planned work session is Aug. 7, 2012 at 4 PM.

Motion to adjourn passed at 8:10 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Glen Bridges, Sec.


APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
JULY 16, 2012

CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 6:05 PM. Present were Selectmen Ron Price, Clint Spaulding, and Brian Jones. Also Pam & Bob Hermon, Sara Bicknell, Meredith Coffin (Solid Waste Director), Sallyann Hadyniak, Erna Keller (Treasurer), Joe Richardson, Dave Bridges (CPC), and Glen Bridges (Sec.).

REVIEW MINUTES: Brian moved to accept and file minutes from July 2. Motion seconded by Clint, and passed.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES: Joe Richardson attended to discuss the beaver dam on Greeley Road. He believes the problem is across the road, not on his property. He hasn’t seen the beaver in 3 days. Joe said you can’t remove the dam because there are fish in the beaver pond. He offered to keep the water level down on the downhill side, and the beavers can be trapped. Clint added that the Town will screen the culvert on the other side.

Sallyann was concerned about her tree-growth tax status; Ron looked it up and said everything is up to date as of 2009-10. The Town has to notify the landowner when their tree-growth is running out.

CORRESPONDENCE: An invitation [attached] from Heather Perry for a meeting with Selectmen on July 18 from 1-3 PM. She asked for an RSVP in case enough people don’t plan to attend and it should be cancelled. A letter was received from Sandy George suggesting that the cost of RSU 3 is too high to be sustainable, and advocating for 2 new School Board directors to represent taxpayers. [Attached]

SOLID WASTE: Meredith gave the Board the recent UARRC minutes [attached], and reported that the need for a new plastics baler. She met with the Sullivans, and together they came up with an agreement that would help avoid any PERC penalty, and also reduce costs for Freedom. Sullivan’s would pick up dumpsters on the same day as trash, bill the Town for the entire tipping fee, and deduct the dumpster tipping fees from the bill to the Town. That way Freedom will be credited for all the tonnage arriving at PERC from Freedom. Ron moved to accept the agreement [attached], motion seconded and passed. Ron will invite Jerry to the next Board meeting.

TREASURER’S REPORT: Erna reported:

Payroll July 9, 2012......................................$2567.79
Payroll July 16, 2012....................................$3253.02
A/P for week ending July 13..........................$7516.16

Beginning checkbook balance.......................$122,601.86
Accounts Payable (A/P)................................$58,474.71
Ending checkbook balance...........................$64,127.15

Ron moved to accept the warrant, including the July RSU 3 payment, seconded by Brian & passed. Clint moved to pay the payroll of $3253.02, seconded by Ron and passed. Half of the county tax is still due.

ROAD COMMISSIONERS: Clint reported that tomorrow work will start on the Smithton Road. DigSafe finished last spring; there are no concerns about the pipeline. Three trucks will be in use, with an excavator rented for seven days from Eagle Rental for $67/hour with an operator. The source of surface gravel will depend on the price. A hand laborer and flagger will be needed. Paperwork has been sent to FEMA. The Board was agreeable with Clint’s plan for Smithton.

The salt bid has been sent to KVCOG, and the sand will come from Winship’s. Clint would like to get the sand/salt pile up as soon as possible.

Ron reported that the survey was completed for the property around the Town garage for $2000. Brian moved to go into executive session as authorized by 1 MRSA 405 (6) (C). Motion seconded and passed. The Board returned in a few minutes. Brian moved to appoint Ron to negotiate the purchase of approximately .39A of property from Mildred Skidgel.

Clint will get Bob Hermon started on a screen for the Greeley Rd. culvert.

Ron has contacted Tim Varney to pick out, according to the State analysis, one or two roads in most critical condition for future road improvements.

HEALTH OFFICER: Ron reported a rabid skunk in Thorndike.

PLANNING BOARD: Ron asked Cindy to post the open position; he’ll make sure it gets done this week.

REC. COMMITTEE: The swing set is put together, but a couple of parts are missing.

CEMETERY COMMITTEE: Clint reported rumor of possible disruption on the Pleasant Hill Cemetery Board due to new members on the Board. Discussion followed about plots for veterans.

HISTORICAL SOCIETY: Sara Bicknell asked if the group could store some belongings in the annex temporarily until next June or July: 2 file cabinets, a small organ, 2 plastic bins. Clint pointed out that the annex is not heated, and that the EMD office will be built into the annex. Ron moved to try to accommodate the storage, seconded by Brian, and passed.

OLD BUSINESS: Ron reported that he is meeting with CMP at 8 am Tuesday about moving the wire over the sand pile at the Town garage. At 8:45 he meets with another rep from CMP about a light for the Veterans Memorial. Clint said CMP will charge the Town if the light is on or not at night.

Ron reported a new entryway cut into a field on Sibley Rd., without the required culvert put in. Clint offered to look at it, adding that the culvert would have to be 18”, or 15” minimum for the grade of Sibley.

Brian listed a few jobs that he still needs to do: read the Kleinschmidt report on the Sandy Pond earthen dam, talk to Frances Walker. No news on the snack shack robbery. Work needs to be contracted on the tax maps.

Ron reported that the foreclosure information is with Kristin Collins. Ron suggested a policy be adopted for dealing with foreclosures.

Brian said Becky at MMA said the policy adopted regarding requests to listen to tapes of meetings is “fatally flawed” [message attached]. He moved to throw out the policy, seconded by Ron, and passed.

Brian raised the issue of someone who wants to fish Sandy Pond at night, and use the boat launch. Following discussion, Clint moved to keep the boat launch road posted as before. Ron seconded; motion passed.

NEW BUSINESS: Brian handed out the completed tax commitment form [attached]. The mil rate will be 16.25/thousand, an increase of 1.35 mil. Only one-half of the school increase needs to be covered this year. Clint moved to accept the tax commitment and set the tax rate at 16.25 mils.

The next meeting will be July 30, 2012 at 6 PM.

Motion to adjourn passed at 8:05 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Glen Bridges, Sec.


APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
JULY 2, 2012

CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order by Chairman Ron Price at 6:10 p.m.
Those in attendance were: (Selectmen) Brian Jones, Clint Spaulding, (Fire Chief) Jim Waterman, (ACO) Scott Holmes, (Acting Secretary) Sallyann Hadyniak and Donna and Glen Sporie.

REVIEW MINUTES: The minutes from the June 4, 2012 meeting were approved and Brian Jones made a motion to place them on file and Ron Price second the motion. Motion made and carried.
The minutes from the June 18, 2012 meeting were approved and Ron Price made a motion to place them on file and it was second by Brian Jones. Motion made and carried.
There were two sets of minutes to approve because the meeting of June 3, 2012 was recessed to a later date.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES: None

FIRE CHIEF: Jim Waterman reported the State laws regarding fireworks with regulations. After a lengthy discussion, this year didn’t seem to be much of a concern due to the fact we had a lot of rain and it was very wet. Since fireworks have become legal and anyone over the age of 21 can purchase them at any time, it can become a threat in the future. Maybe an ordinance should be written up regarding this matter. Maybe we can work on this matter and present it to the town at the Town Meeting in March. In the meantime we will stick with the Statues of the State of Maine. If fireworks are being used after hours, call the sheriffs office to report it. If it’s a dry season #5 fireworks should not be sold at the locally. Starting at #1, very wet, #2 o.k., #3 o.k. #4 not good, #5 bad!
An electrically operated valve had to be replaced on the Tanker truck and it cost $1,400. Also a few hoses had to be replaced because they had holes in them.
Jim is the addressing officer for 911 (Emergency Services Communications Bureau) data base. All towns are required to have one.
The Freedom Volunteer Fire Department wants to go to all automobile accidents that occur in town. Cell phone 911 is automatically dispatched to State Police and if there are injuries, Delta Ambulance will be called as first responders and since they are connected with Albion, they will be notified also. If the Freedom Volunteer Fire Department arrives first and see that medical attention is required, they will call Delta.

ACO: Scott Holmes reported that there is a missing kitten/cat. Otherwise it’s been quiet.

TREASURERS REPORT:

1. Payroll Warrant this week is…………………………… $2,149.85
2. Payroll for week ending 6/25/2012 was……………… $1,743.84
3. A/P this week is …………………………………………. $8,839.35
(Checks are done and in the safe.
4. Beginning checkbook balance………………………….. $116,809.52
5. A/P for week ending June 26, 2012 was…………………$1,735.00
Less A/P this week………………………………………… $ 8,839.35
(This is BMV)
6. We received a check from Unemployment-Refund $88.90 and Revenue
Sharing for June $4,476.31.
7. Would like to have a work day on Friday July 6, 2012 at 2:15 p.m. Swing set
Swing Set has come in looking for volunteers to help put it together. Need to
Set up area for playground equipment, set up boards-dig area around area
So we cab add mulch after equipment is set up.
8. I have a letter for Meredith about the fuel surcharge for May-question for
Sullivan’s (May 3 & 9 we were over .099 cents but May 17th under .10 and
May 25-31st. under .20).
9. We received our new bill for MSAD 3. Our payment has gone up and is now
$43,656 - $34, 918 = $8,728.00 more a month. (First payment is $43,651.32
Then goes to $43,646.00)
10. Have you done anything yet with the property that had been foreclosed on?
11. Barbara VanDeventer called about the bill that was sent MSAD 3 to pay for ballot clerks/registrar… She says it’s too high and they will pay half. “I said, we expected that they only paid half last year”. She asked why we had so many people doing the elections (now a longer day people work in 2 shifts usually). I explained that if she looks at it some only had 2 hours. I explained that Cindy has to start and go to the school meeting in case there are any new voters there to be signed up, she has to hang all the papers, be available all day during voting and be there during counting, be available for absentee ballots and set up election hall. Instead of Warden (Thressa Abbott) I called her a moderator-so I had to explain that was an error on my part.
12. Our current budget voted at Town Meeting is $1,063.354 - $473,980.51 (Debits) = $588,469,71 (unexpended)
Brian Jones made a motion to accept the treasurer’s report as presented and to be placed on file and Clint Spaulding seconds it. Motion made and carried. All those in favor of accepting the treasurer’s report and the signing of the warrant raised their right hand, all three raised their hands.
CEO: Ron Price spoke to Dave Schofield and request that he issue a semi annual list of building and plumbing permits that were given out. Dave checked with the Boynton’s regarding the barn that is falling into the river and they stated that they are trying their best to get the stuff out of the building and just as soon as they emptied the building it will be taken down, and that the 5 gallon buckets were taken care of. The building located on Mitchell road did have a plumbing inspection and there is a septic on site.
ROAD COMMISSIONER: Clint Spaulding requested an executive session; therefore Brian Jones made a motion and read they will go into exec. Session under1MRSA SECT. 405, 6, XA at 6:45 p.m. (Personal matter) and Ron Price seconds the motion. Motion made and carried. They returned back from the executive session and no decision was made at 6:50 p.m.
There is a bad culvert on Greeley Road that needs to be replaced (rotted out), Between Packetts and Anderson’s.
If the operator is available next week of the 9th, they will start the work on Smithton Hill project. An F7 or S7 form needs to be filled out, signed and sent out tomorrow. The approximate cost of the washout is $60,000.00.
Safety vests need to be ordered for the Public Works Department in large, 2 and 3 extra large, (approximately 12 vests). Even numbers of each one cause it’s cheaper. If the logo is free, it will say Freedom Public Works Dept. on the back. The boys have bee out cold patching and doing a good job.
GENERAL ASSISTANCE: Nothing to report
HEALTH OFFICER: Ron Price stated a reminder of the army of tick’s and mosquitoes being an issue and if you have old tires or anything like that, get rid of the water for that’s where they breed. No rabies has been reported...
SCHOOL BOARD REPRESENTATIVE: Cathy Cunningham is attending the school board meetings in the absence of Myrick Cross who really appreciates it.
EMD: Clint Spaulding reported that Christine is doing much better and on the road to recovery.
BI-CENTENNIEL COMMITTEE AND REC. COMM.: Sallyann reported that both committee’s are working hard to make both the events a success and that volunteers are needed to help with the plans and with the activities. Ion Friday, July 6, 2012 there will be a work session for the Rec. Comm. to put together the new equipment for the playground.
PLANNING BOARD: The Planning Board is still looking for a member to fill a vacancy. Brian will check with Cindy to see if it was posted. Gunner Wood wanted to remain on the Planning so Brian Jones made a motion for Gunner to be reappointed and Ron Price seconds it. All in favor.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: CPIC: The CPIC IS looking for volunteers also and two meetings were held and several cancelled. When Dave gets back from vacation, a meeting is scheduled.
CEMETERY COMMITTEE: We are still looking for someone to head the committee, and it will be posted together with looking for a volunteer for the Planning Board.
APPEALS BOARD: Ron Price called Addison and it seems Addison wasn’t that interested in the Appeals Board so then Brian Jones read a letter that he sent to Addison Chase regarding the appeals board. As of this meeting, there was no response.
Clint Spaulding spoke about the Historical Society and the old town house building being an asset to the town and we should put more money into our assets. The Society has worked hard to get the building to look the way it is and it does belong to the town.
CORRESPONDANCE: Brian Jones reported that Glen Bridges drafted a note to BRW thanking them for their generous contribution of $5,000.00 toward the fire hydrant in the village. He would like the Selectmen to sign it and he will mail it out. He read the letter out loud and it was a simple but very nice thank you.
A message was received from Ron Smith that there will be a letter coming with our audited financial statements that will be mailed July 1, 2012...
OLD BUSINESS:
The attorney regarding the foreclosure of 200 acres on Sanford Hill wants copies from Cindy and some information of any conversations she has had with the owner. It’s very fortunate that it is only land and a building is not involved. The sale of the property has to go out for bid and we will issue a quick claim deed to the new owner. The lawyer stated it would be a good idea for the town to establish a policy regarding foreclosures etc. Brian and Clint will take a ride up there and see what the property looks like.
Brian had a conversation with (Becky) MMA regarding
1. The Freedom of Access Request Policy and it basically needs to be adjusted. It seems that the public can listen to them, copy them, etc. and pay just for the bland cassette. Etc. Brian suggests that they go back and review this ruling.
2. The Boat Landing, we can regulate the use of the boat landing between dusk and dawn. This issue will be revisited also/ (next time)
3. The Beaver Dam. The town does not have the authority to enter private property to remove the dam without the owner’s permission. If permission has been denied, and it has been declared a public nuisance, you must take it to court. Chances of recovering any loss are probably slim. The owner has lowered it some the down hill part of the dam. Ron suggested that Brian talk to the owner and see if they can come to some agreement regarding the dam, and if they can’t, Brian will tell him to expect a letter from the town lawyer. This has to be settled one way or another. We will give him one more chance for it has been going on for far too long.
MINUTES:
A lengthy discussion was held regarding the taping of the minutes, there are several questions that Brian will ask MMA.
1 Brian will ask MMA if they have a sample policy and wants to recess for 7 minutes, Ron agreed.
1. Brian will throw everything back into the legal file when he is done with it all.
2. There is no word on the breaking in of the Snack Shack.
3. Ron will check on the boiler.
4. Brian needs to read the Klein Schmidt stuff regarding the upper dam.
5. When Christina Spaulding is back on her feet, she will working on the emergency plan.
6. Brian did not check with Frances Walker regarding the web site.

7. Ron did not find out too much regarding the G. I. S. Therefore it will be discussed at the next meeting.
8. Nothing was discussed regarding the tax maps. Brian had questioned it but no one responded.
9. Brian presented a “There is a Town Of Freedom Policy Use Of Municipal Facilities”. The Selectmen of Freedom wish to encourage the use of the municipal complex facilities when they are not in use. In all cases scheduled functions shall have priority in the use of facilities. It will consist of:
1. General
2. Application for and scheduling of municipal complex facilities
3. Categories of groups
4. Fees
5. Payment of fees
6. Agreements of building use
7. Use for private gain.
Brian suggested that Ron and Clint read it over and they will come back to it another time.
SULLIVAN: Regarding the dumpsters and annual tonnage needs to be reviewed with Jerry. Meredith game the Board a letter with information. Ron wants the Board to meet with Jerry and review this.
Clint will call Jerry.
Ron will read the literature regarding the information that was given to him by Brian, in regards to the boiler.
Brian suggested tabling the CPIC until the next meeting when David Bridges will be there.
Jackie needs to tidy some things and will meet on Tuesday July 10, 2012 at 4 p.m. Brian will call Jackie If she can’t do it on Tuesday then we will meet in the evening or morning but better in the evening.
The survey of the Public Works garage is completed and the cost was $2,000.00. It actually came to $2,700.00.
The next meeting will be July 16, 2010
Ron made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:05 p.m. Clint seconds the motion. All in favor!

Respectfully submitted,

Sallyanne Hadyriak, Acting Secretary


APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
JUNE 18, 2012

CALL TO ORDER: Brian called the meeting to order at 6:02. Present were Brian Jones, Clint Spaulding, Dave Bridges, Scott Holmes, Richard Spinelli, Sallyann Hadyniak, Erna Keller, and Glen Bridges. Arriving later were Ron Price and Jim Waterman.

GENERAL ASSISTANCE HEARING: Brian called the hearing to order, and explained that the Town has to adopt changes made at the State level. Assistance has been cut by 10%, and the income level to qualify has been cut by 10%. The Town will spend the same monies, but be reimbursed less by the State. Now a family of four will have to have an income under $979/month to qualify. We have no choice but to adopt the changes.
Clint moved to accept the amended General Assistance Ordinance, seconded by Brian, and passed.

REVIEW MINUTES: Review of minutes was tabled until notes are added from the continued meeting on June 6th.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES: Dave Bridges asked if there will be any progress on the roads in the wake of the negative referendum vote. Brian replied that is on the agenda and will wait until Ron arrives.
Dave also raised the issue of a few residents who continually cause trouble by being disruptive at meetings and petitioning recalls, etc. It is destructive and disruptive, and needs to be addressed with a positive effort to bring people together. One example was the reconstruction of the Commercial Development Review Ordinance. The Selectmen felt a mistake was being made, decided to correct it, which is within their rights, and people caused a great deal of trouble over it, rather than deal with it in a constructive manner. Dave queried, “How am I to ever get the Comp Plan off the ground if the Town is always suffering from negative actions from grudges and personal vendettas?” Brian agreed that disagreement doesn’t need to be made personal. Clint added the example of criticism of road conditions, which are not the fault of Road Commissioners, but from not raising and appropriating enough money.
Brian suggested attending each other’s meetings might ease the tension between the Boards. Clint said volunteer boards and town officials should be working as a team.
Sallyann asked for an example. Glen pointed out a good example of this behavior was the April 23 meeting, which should have been an adult conversation about compromise, but had the tone of a lynching party, which had been orchestrated with phone calls and e-mails.

Glen observed that someone sent out a letter calling themselves Committee for Responsible and Ethical Government, but weren’t responsible or ethical enough to sign their own letter. Clint said the post office shouldn’t have allowed it without a return address. Brian also had a problem with that letter, which he said was dishonest in quoting misleading figures about taxes going up.

Scott asked how the investigation is going into the robbery at the snack shack. Clint explained the grill, food, and a deep fryer was stolen. The lock was jimmied, but there is no progress in the investigation.

TREASURER’S REPORT: Erna reported:

Payroll 6/11/12...........................................$2273.52
Payroll this week.........................................$5200.24

Beginning checkbook balance......................$151,489.97
A/P this week (includes school payment).....$44,406.20
Ending checkbook balance..........................$107,023.77

Payment of the second half of the county tax was put off.
Brian asked what the legal fee was for. Clint replied that it was to review and settle the question of Ron having a conflict of interest. Brian thought Ron shouldn’t be represented personally by the Town attorney; Clint pointed out that he was being advised not personally as an individual, but as a Selectman who was accused of having a conflict of interest, and citizen’s requested he get legal proof that he did not. A long discussion followed about the role of the Town attorneys. Glen mentioned that the lawyers would have been the first ones to say that it wasn’t appropriate (if it wasn’t), and added that this Town has many “arm-chair” lawyers who are busy misinterpreting statutes. Brian suggested the citizens making the accusation should have had to hire a lawyer.
Brian moved, seconded by Clint, to sign the payroll warrant and A/P warrant. Motion passed.

ACO: Scott picked up a feral cat and a dog.

FVFD: Jim Waterman asked, representing someone (unnamed), if the boat-landing road could be opened at night because this person wants to take his children fishing at night. Ron said the road is closed at night because the privilege has been abused. Clint moved to keep the road closed at night, seconded by Ron, and passed 2-1, with Brian opposed.

CEO: Dave asked if the CEO could be asked about the old trailer that has appeared on the Jaranka property on Mitchell Rd. Does it have a septic system? Glen suggested it would be good if Dave Schofield would give the Board a yearly list of permit like Jay Guber always did. Ron will call Dave & ask him to attend meetings.

PLANNING BOARD: Meets tomorrow, June 19.

COMP. PLAN COMMITTEE: Will meet again in July.

REC. COMMITTEE: Sallyann reported she sold over $250 worth of raffle tickets on Election Day.

APPEALS BOARD: Discussion came up about the Board not being legal if they don’t follow their ordinance and meet once a year. Brian will write a letter to Addison Chase.

CORRESPONDENCE: Ron read an estimate from Kennebec River Surveyors offering to do the necessary work for no more than $2000. Brian moved, seconded by Clint, to authorize Ron to sign the agreement to hire Kennebec River Surveyors. Clint seconded; motion passed.
Clint mentioned the boundary dispute between Montville and Freedom over the line at Jeff Richardson’s property. Towns are supposed to perambulate their lines every ten years.

OLD BUSINESS: Brian announced that Beaver Ridge Wind has donated $5000 towards the pressurized hydrant for the Town and FIFED. Brian moved to accept the donation and direct the Secretary to write a thank you letter to BREW. Clint asked if the FVFD is going to move forward with the hydrant. Ron thinks they have to; they’ve been directed by the Town to go forward. Ron seconded Brian’s motion; motion passed.
The boiler is leaking water every time it is turned on, so needs to be looked at.
The five gal. buckets on the old Town garage property are gone.
Brian will contact Kendall Marden again about the beaver dam on Davis Road. Clint said the culvert is completely plugged.
Brian reported they sat down with Jackie Robbins and will meet again in 2-3 weeks.
Brian also met with the representative from Revenue Services, who took information back to his office to work on.
Brian found the file and report on the dam from Kleinschmidt Associates, but hasn’t had time yet to study it.
Glen gave the Board a packet of information from MMA, and State statutes, regarding how to handle dangerous buildings, noting that one statute appears to be an easier process, allowing the Select Board negotiate a consent agreement with the owner.
Brian moved to refer the current foreclosure case to the Town attorney. Ron seconded, motion passed. Ron will take care of that.
Brian reported that someone is interpreting a State statute as saying that the Town cannot charge for someone to listen to tapes. He printed out the statute. After reading it, Glen disagreed with that interpretation because everything in the statute talks about payment for staff time, and says “inspection of records”, not ”listening to tapes”, and that we do not charge for inspection of the official records-the minute, as determined by Selectmen.

NEW BUSINESS: Ron started the discussion on roads by noting that the Road Commissioners are not authorized to spend any more on roads than has already been budgeted, which is $68,000 including URIP funds. Clint mentioned we just spent $2500 on cold patch; we’ve spent $13,000 on grading.
Smithton has two sections that need to be rebuilt totaling about 1300’. The middle has been rebuilt. Clint thinks that 1300’ can be rebuilt, but not paved, for about $30,000. Brian suggested prioritizing gravel roads; Clint said Rollins would be the next in line. After Smithton, Rollins can be fixed. In fact, the Board made a commitment to the Rollins Road residents that it would be fixed. If an ambulance won’t go down Rollins, a fire truck might not be able to either. The sides need to be cut back on Raven Rd., and a section re-done where it comes into Ayer Ridge; there is fabric under that hill.
Ron said the Town wants to see a more detailed plan on where road monies will be spent, so for now, Smithton and Rollins. Brian repeated for Ron that the figures in the anonymous political letter were misleading. It lumped the school and county together, and was just dishonest.
Ron moved to have the Public Works Committee (Tim Varney and Dwight Gould) meet with the Road Commissioners and to use the State program to assess roads over the course of the summer. Brian seconded the motion; motion carried.
Clint suggested that excise tax monies should be dedicated to roads, and pointed out that our summer road budget should be 20% higher than winter roads. The cost for plowing and sanding winter roads is $3300 per mile.
Erna informed the Board that $68,000 is available for roads.
Discussion turned to getting the work done economically, and figures for hiring it out were much higher than renting the equipment and using Town employees. For example, $120 per hour for an excavator vs. $67 to rent one and have it operated by Town employees. Brian moved, seconded by Ron, to get started on Smithton ASAP, and to rent equipment and have Town employees do the work. Ron seconded; motion passed, with Clint recusing himself.

The next meeting is July 2, 2012.

Motion to adjourn passed at 8:25 PM.

Page PAGE 1 of NUMPAGES 4
June 18, 2012


APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
JUNE 4, 2012

CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 6:10 PM. Present: Selectmen Ron Price, Clint Spaulding, Brian Jones. Also, Glenn & Donna Sporie, Erna Keller (Treasurer), Jim Waterman (FVFD), Jerry Sullivan, Ralph Sullivan, Gerald Gould, Sallyann Hadyniak, Bob & Pam Hermon, Dave Bridges (Comp. Plan), Tim Biggs, Meredith Coffin (Solid Waste Director), Hilary Fleming, Glen Bridges (Secretary).

REVIEW MINUTES: The minutes were amended on page two, the word “owner”, top line, changed to “agent”, and accepted by unanimous vote.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES: Meredith commented on the vandalized sign on Palermo Road being cleaned up. Also, Jon Willette is doing a nice job on the cemetery maintenance.

FIRE DEPARTMENT: Jim reported that he is still working on listing the ambulance with FireTec; he needs to take pictures.

SOLID WASTE DIRECTOR: Meredith met with Sullivan’s in an effort to find the best way for Freedom to get credit for all its trash tonnage. Meredith handed out a proposed agreement, which she later decided to revise.
Jerry explained that a yard of trash equals 250 lbs. He picks up bagged trash on Thursdays, and dumpsters on Mondays. The dumpster tonnage goes to Freedom as a credited tipping fee.
In Knox, he picks up both trash & dumpsters, and deducts the dumpster tipping fee from the town bill.
After a long discussion, Meredith thought it best to revisit the subject in 6 months, and she will re-write the proposed agreement.
The bill for door-to-door clean up was $7357.13.

PLANNING BOARD: The next meeting has been rescheduled for June 19th.

GENERAL ASSISTANCE: Brian reported the overall maximum allowable award decrease by 10%, and is limited to 9 months of housing assistance. The ordinance has to be amended by July 1st. Brian moved to hold a public hearing on June 18th on amendments to the GA Ordinance. Ron seconded, motion passed.

HEALTH OFFICER: Ron reported on the increase of mosquito-born encephalitis and advised to use repellant.

SCHOOL DIRECTOR: The school budget was raised from the floor to include $21,700 to increase a part-time Phys Ed position to full time. The budget is flat; State subsidies are down $750,000. The formula used by the State is not at all beneficial to rural schools.

EMD: Christine reported that she is working on a new hazard plan for Freedom, attending monthly county meetings, and now they are gearing up for hurricane season. Town employees are all up to date on training. Christine is talking to Tom Clay about HAM radio needs for the Town. She inquired about the progress on an office for her use.

COMP. PLAN COMMITTEE: Dave gave each Selectman a letter outlining the responsibilities of the Implementation Committee, which requires:
1. Appointment of a Conservation Commission.
2. An Economic Development Committee.
Brian asked about the process, does it require ordinances to create committees? Dave replied that he will give the Board copies of the State statute that authorizes municipal conservation commissions.

RECREATION COMMITTEE: Volunteers are needed to put playground equipment together.

CEMETERY COMMITTEE: Jon is at work on cemeteries.

ROAD COMMISSIONERS: Ron suggested the Board meet and write up an in-depth appraisal and plan for road improvements, to be sent out before the June 12 vote. 7.8 miles of road need to be paved @ $55,000 per mile. Clint said culverts will be needed, and that the cost of re-building dirt roads is not covered by the proposed loan. The meeting was set for noon on Wednesday, June 6, and will be a continuation of tonight’s meeting [to be recessed].
Clint said he was appalled that he was criticized for not coming to the hearing when his wife was ill; Bryan added that it was hurtful.
Clint pointed out that there was a long-range plan in 2005, but was not funded. He suggested that an article be proposed at next town meeting to put excise monies and URIP funds into roads.
Tim asked how Knox raises money for their roads; Ron explained that their excise goes into the General Fund, which he has seen get as high as $700,000.
Clint said that dirt roads are more expensive to maintain than paved roads; they have to be resurfaced every year.
Clint reported the Public Works Dept. needs another 24 tons of cold patch @ $115 per ton. Brian added that it should be hauled as efficiently as possible. If Clint or Christine’s company hauls the cold patch, there may be accusations of conflict of interest, but the consensus was that if the other two Board members agree, and Clint abstains, there is no conflict. After discussion about the most efficient and economical ways to haul it, Ron moved to buy 24 tons of cold patch and hire Family Trucking to haul it. Brian seconded. Motion passed, with Clint abstaining.
Clint also reported that a conversation is needed with a landowner on Rollins Rd. regarding overhead cutting; the Town does have a 25’ easement from the center of the road.
The boat launch road has been graded, and could use some added gravel.
Brian moved that the Public Works employees do all Town lawn mowing. Ron seconded, motion passed.
Ron moved to hire Bo Spaulding for roadside mowing, seconded by Brian, and passed, with Clint abstaining.
Ron mentioned that the Town approved the purchase of a plow truck. Ron & Clint looked at one that they thought was overpriced.

OLD BUSINESS: Ron moved, seconded by Brian, to accept the written policy on access to records of public meetings. Motion passed.

TREASURER’S REPORT: Erna reported:

Payroll 5/29/12....................$1800.96
Payroll this week..................$4190.67

Beginning checkbook balance........$215,829.61
A/P this week (includes ? county tax)....$75,539.12
Ending checkbook balance...........$140,290.59

Erna reported that she is working on liens that were paid but never discharged. Discussion followed about how that process works; Erna gave the Board a folder containing all the information. The Board will discuss this at the noon meeting Wednesday.
Checks received:
1. Town of Knox $2266.67
2. State Revenue Sharing for May $5454.16.

Ron moved to accept the Treasurer’s report; motion passed.
Clint moved to sign the payroll; motion passed.
Clint moved to sign the A/P warrant; motion carried.

NEW BUSINESS: The office boiler is leaking water; Ron will look into it. Meanwhile, it’s being kept shut down.
Brian suggested the Public Works Dept. be asked to dispose of the 5 gal. buckets left on the old tractor garage lot on Stevens Road.
Ron will call Dave Schofield to contact the Boynton heirs about the barn that looks about to fall into the stream.
Brian is expecting Kendall Marden to come to Freedom about the beaver dam on Davis Road; discussion will be about damage to the road and how to remove the dam. Brian will call Kendall.
There are complaints on Rollins Rd. because the Post Office will not deliver mail, either because of ruts in the road or mailboxes that are unstable.
Brian plans to sit down with Jackie Robbins to bring property transfers, etc., up to date so tax bills can go out shortly after the June 12 vote.
Erna asked if work will be done on tax maps; monies were raised for that. Ron will get an estimate.
Ron mentioned that the earthen dam problems have to be resolved. Brian will search for the Kleinschmidt report and try to research it.
Ron is waiting for a reply from the surveyors with a more reasonable estimate for the work needed.
Brian asked about hooking into the Skidgels well; Ron thought that could be done along with the Skidgel transfer.
Ron mentioned that CMP should move the wire over the sand pile; he will call them.
Donna Sporie asked if anyone found out who discharged a gun in her neighborhood. (No, but Ron did talk to people).

Brian moved to recess the meeting until noon on June 6. Motion passed at 8:26 PM.

The next meeting, after the Wednesday continuation, will be June 18, 2012 at 6 PM.



JUNE 6, 2012 MEETING RECONVENED a t 12 noon:

The Board signed a warrant for the Rec. Committee for a swing set and a cotton candy machine.

Clint was authorized by a vote of the Selectmen to proceed with the work on Sibley Rd.

The Selectmen developed a plan for road repairs, along with figures on the proposed loan, which will be sent out to all the Town residents.

The beaver dam on Davis Road was discussed: once the culvert is cleaned out, it should be screened off.

The Assessors will meet with ME Revenue Services next Wed. at 9 AM to discuss the State valuation.

The next regular Select Board meeting will be June 18, 2012. Meeting adjourned.


Respectfully submitted,

Glen Bridges, Sec.

Page PAGE 1 of 4
June 4, 2012


APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
MAY 21, 2012

CALL TO ORDER: Ron Price called the meeting to order at 6:10 PM. Present: Selectmen Ron Price and Brian Jones. Also David Bridges (Comp. Plan), Dave Bennett, Meredith Coffin (UARRC), Scott Holmes (ACO), Rich Spinelli, Jim Waterman (FVFD), Erna Keller (Treasurer), Cindy Abbott (Town Clerk), Glen Bridges (Secretary).

REVIEW MINUTES: The minutes from May 7 were accepted with the 1.5 mil increase estimated on page 2 deleted and replaced by estimated 2.3. increase in parenthesis. Brian added that the county tax will represent an increase of .3 mil.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES: Dave Bennett, representing the FVFD, said he had asked the Board to put on the referendum, to “raise and appropriate $13,000” for a pressurized hydrant, but when informed by the Board that monies couldn’t be raised on a referendum question, Dave said he left it up to the Selectmen. However, he had no intention, nor did the FVFD, of taking the funds out of the FVFD Capital Improvement Fund. Rich Spinelli argued the same point.
Ron remembered the conversation differently; that he had said he wasn’t sure where the monies would come from, possibly that monies would have to come out of the Capital Improvement Fund (CIF), and Dave responded he didn’t think the FVFD CIF could afford the expenditure. The Board discussed where the money should come from; it was consensus that it should come from the FVFD Capital Improvement Fund, which should currently amount to about $11,000 & $6600 & $15,000 [total $32,600], with another $7500-8500 expected from the sale of the ambulance. Ron agreed that he & Clint were aware that the FVFD didn’t want it to come out of the Capital Improvement Account, and are certainly willing to listen to the FVFD’s reasons. Ron responded that the FVFD can come and vote their preference at the June 12 election, and there will be a public hearing also. Brian assured the FVFD that if they spend their CIF monies down, the Select Board would step in.
Rich & Jim W. both thought the decision was because of comments made by a budget committee member, but the Selectmen disagreed. Scott objected to the FVFD CIF having to be used for everything they need.
Brian replied, “The Fire Department is the Town; you can’t create this ‘us and them’ way of looking of things”.
Rich thinks the CIF’s purpose is to replace durable goods, and that it should be allowed to grow, maybe to afford another fire truck in ten years.
Dave Bennett said the opportunity for the hydrant is going to go by, but Brian pointed out that he just talked to Toni Grassi, and he is willing to install the piping, so it is not that time sensitive.

Rich Spinelli asked why the Town doesn’t mow the FVFD grass. Erna said it takes 4 hours of mowing and 2 hours of weedwacking, including the town office, FVFD, and ball field, for $10.30/hour. Brian preferred a contract, but Ron pointed out that a requirement for insurance, etc. would be required with a contract. The Board agreed to hire Scott until there is a better plan.
Jim asked how the Board would feel about Jim being the authorized agentr of the ambulance, to be able to sign a marketing agreement with FireTec. The Board authorized Jim to sign the agreement.
Ron heard from Galen Larrabee, who said Knox wants to review their fire protection agreement; their interpretation of the agreement is worrisome, and they’d like to have it revised. Ron asked Galen to submit changes they are interested in.

SOLID WASTE DIRECTOR: Meredith handed UARRC minutes to the Board; She mentioned that Aaron wants another baler for increased amount of plastics. Meredith spent time with the Sullivans discussing ways to reduce costs and options for how the Town should be credited for about 40 tons from dumpsters.
The GAT letter has been sent off, asking to reduce Freedom’s tonnage from 250 to 150 per year. GAT may negotiate some of that.

TOWN CLERK: Cindy had a number of agenda items:
1. Signatures on nine school ballots.
2. Copies of school warrant. Referendum at school is May 23, 2012.
3. Signatures on agreement with Pete Curra.
4. BETE program form for Addison Chase. Brian will call Revenue Services.
5. Regarding the program for credit card use. Ron read the material, and is uncomfortable with all the charges being on the customers. Ron will deal with Dustin Biggs, salesman for InforME.
6. Set date for public hearing: May 30, 7 PM. Second choice May 31. Need to find a moderator. Posting should be done Wednesday, May 23. A mailing will be sent out.
7. Cindy passed on a list/description of LDs enacted or under consideration by the legislature.
8. January to May 21 cash receipts total.
9. Pre-30 day 2011 lien notices go out tomorrow. There are 114 accounts.
10. One personal property tax bill account for the Board to look at, which may have had a name change. Brian will call Jackie about it.

ACO: Scott reported one dog at large, and gave a written 30-day warning. Some goats were loose on Bryant Road; Scott called Unity about it.

TREASURER: Erna reported:
Payroll warrant May 14……………….…………$1426.06
Payroll this week…………………………………..$3230.80
Checkbook balance……………………………….$197,678.15
A/P this week……………………………………….$7637.53
Checkbook balance……………………………….$190,040.62
Ron moved to accept the Treasurer’s report, to pay the payroll warrant for $3230.80. Brian seconded; passed. Ron moved to sign the A/P warrant for $7637.53; motion passed.

Discussion followed about the State directing Cindy and Erna, at a training, to always send uncashed checks to the State Treasurer’s unclaimed property fund, and not to put it back into Freedom’s general fund.

GENERAL ASSISTANCE: Brian reported one poverty abatement application. The GA Ordinance needs to be amended to reflect state limits on housing assistance and 10% overall reduction in assistance.

SCHOOL DIRECTOR: Ron reported that with Myrick Cross’s wife very ill, Kathy is willing to remain in the position until Myrick can take over. Brian moved to appoint Kathy as interim School Director; seconded and passed.

EMD: Brian said the emergency plan has to be revised in case the upper dam fails; Ron will talk to Christine about that.
In 2007, the State granted Freedom ownership of the dam. Brian wants to research this history.

ROAD COMMISSIONERS: Erna made a serious complaint about Smithton Road; she has ruined two tires on it. Ron said they could probably cover the rocks with material, but that would be a waste of money if the road is only going to be dug up anyway. The Board agreed to wait until Clint is back. In the meantime, Ron will go with Bob Hermon to look at it.
A plan and appraisal for road improvement needs to be prepared for the public hearing.
Scott asked if the boat launch road could be graded; Ron will talk to Public Works about that.

PLANNING BOARD: Their next meeting is scheduled for Election Day, June 12. Ron will ask them to change that.

COMP. PLAN: A Conservation Commission needs to be appointed, along with an Economic Development Committee. With long-range plans in place, many misunderstandings and emergencies, such as road repairs, can be avoided. What is needed is better communication and cooperation from groups such as the FVFD. If the FVFD had a long-range plan, many recent disagreements could have been avoided.
Dave and Brian agreed that the Implementation and resulting committees will have to work with a spirit of cooperation.
Often, all of this is the responsibility of the Planning Board. Dave corrected the recent newspaper article, which said the Planning Board had written the Comp. Plan over a period of five years. The Comp. Plan started up in 2004, the PB didn’t get involved until 2009, and two of their members refused to participate.

RECREATION COMMITTEE: A volunteer worked on the garden. More work is needed. Volunteers are also needed to put playground equipment assembling.

APPEALS BOARD: Ron talked to Addison about holding the required yearly meeting, but Addison wasn’t enthusiastic about it.

OLD BUSINESS: Ron spoke to the surveyor about running lines on town garage property for a reasonable fee.
The Board established policy for use of Town buildings:
1. No charge for Town sponsored groups.
2. $25 refundable deposit for school/youth/service organizations.

3. $50 for a profit-making organization, also with a $25 refundable
deposit fee.
Brian will write this up.

Ron moved to pay _ of the county tax bill on the next warrant. That will reduce the undesignated funds to $140,000. Motion seconded and passed.
Policy for access to Town records was settled. The proposed policy was accepted, with the following changes:
1. Add to title, “For Public Meetings”
2. Request will be made to Town Clerk.
3. Secretary’s hourly rate will be payable to Town Clerk.
The Secretary will type up the final version.

Brian talked to the biologist (Kiel) about the beaver dam on Davis Road

There is a vacancy on the Planning Board; Gunner Wood would like to be appointed for another term. Cindy should be asked to post that vacant position.
Brian moved to appoint Gunner Wood; motion seconded and passed.

Marcus Ballou from MMA Property & Casualty Pool had several recommendations:
1. FVFD had $300,000 listed in contents, which is too high.
2. This was changed to $25,000 contents, and $275,000 mobile equipment.
3. Repairs have been done to the Town garage, now it is undervalued. They could re-appraise the building.
4. Coverage for non-supervisory positions has been removed for sexual misconduct defense coverage.
5. Recommend adopting written employment policies for all departments.

Brian mentioned an issue of tax-acquired property; the Board should sit down with Jackie, and be ready right after June 12 to get tax bills out.

The website is still not up to date. Personal phone numbers are still listed, and also Baldacci and Piotti are still in office. Brian will talk to Frances.

The next meeting is June 4th, 2012.

Motion to adjourn passed at 8:20 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Glen Bridges, Sec.


APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
MAY 7, 2012

CALL TO ORDER: Ron Price called the meeting to order at 6:03 PM, with the following present: Selectmen Clint Spaulding, Ron Price, and Brian Jones. Also Scott Holmes (ACO), Rich Spinelli, Tim Biggs, Dave Bridges (Comp Plan), Pam & Bob Hermon, Chris Spaulding, Sallyann Hadyniak, Ken Boulier, Glen Bridges (Sec.), Erna Keller (Treasurer), Jim Waterman (FVFD), Hilary & Tom Fleming.

REVIEW MINUTES: The minutes from April 23, continued April 30, 2012, were accepted as written, to be placed on file.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES: Scott thought that too many people squeezed into the Town office on April 23, that it was a safety and fire hazard, and in the future should be moved to the annex.
Dave Bridges apologized for any inappropriate behavior on his part at the April 30 meeting. He also asked if the construction on Mitchell Rd. has a permit. Clint said the owner had come in for an application.

FIRE CHIEF: Jim Waterman reported that the ambulance, according to a FireTec appraisal, is worth about $7500-$8,500. One like Freedom’s sold for $15,000 with half the mileage. Freedom’s has 100,000 miles.
Jim said the parking lot would be washed down with the power washer.
Ron questioned Jim about the condition of the hydrants and how many we have; Dave Bennett had said they were all broken. Jim said they can use the ones near Avian Haven and Jim Little’s, and they are all OK. There’s one on Knox Ridge. He’d like to have one at the end of Rollins Road.
Ron explained that the Board agreed to put the request for a hydrant for $13,000 on the upcoming ballot, but that he is not sure how the Board will vote on where the money should come from, possibly some from the FVFD capital improvement account. Jim described how the hydrant would work.

ACO: Scott announced that all the dogs in Town have been licensed, there are still some fines not paid. He advised to be on the lookout for raccoons.

TOWN CLERK: Cindy needs to have all the information for the ballot by Saturday.

SOLID WASTE DIRECTOR: Hilary reported that she & Meredith have been researching the idea of a transfer station. We’d like to get more people to recycle. The opportunity to negotiate the GAT agreement is open from May 3 to July 6.

COMP. PLAN COMMITTEE: Dave reported the implementation committee has met once, and plans to meet every other Monday.

APPEALS BOARD: Dave said the AB should meet annually, and Addison was chair several years ago. Ron will call him to request they call a meeting.

HISTORICAL SOCIETY: The group is still trying to sell their usual items to raise money.

TREASURER: Erna reported:
Payroll this week……………………………………..$2481.00

Beginning checkbook balance…………….…..$239,052.09
A/P this week……………………………………………$43,002.95
Ending checkbook balance……………………….$196,049.14

Ron moved to accept the Treasurer’s Report, and to sign the payroll warrant and A/P warrant. Motion seconded and passed.
Vicky Larrabee has asked to use the annex on June 9 for a candle party. Cindy suggested she use the main office because the annex will be set up for voting. Ron moved to grant the request, but to come up with a policy by the next meeting addressing use of space, seconded by Clint and passed. Brian said he isn’t comfortable with commercial enterprises using Town buildings. Erna said most Towns have a policy letting residents use space; this event might involve 8-10 people.

OLD BUSINESS: Ron and Clint surveyed the roads. About 8 miles need to be repaved: Ayer Ridge, Mitchell, Bryant, and Greeley. Smithton and Rollins need major repair work. Paving now costs $55,000 per mile. There is only $50,000 in the summer roads budget, which probably wouldn’t even cover fixing the Smithton Road.
Ron suggested that we do it right, borrow money and make payments for five years. If $500,000 were borrowed from Key Bank at 2.5%, the yearly payment would be $107,623 per year, or about 1.8 mil. [See Treasurer’s report attached]. Bangor Savings would charge 2.85 % interest.
The town is looking at about a $140,000 increase in our school payment, amounting to about 2.3 mil increase.
The time frame for roads could be a problem, since it’s already May, and this won’t be voted on until June 12.
Brian thought that borrowing at 2.5% might provide a long-term savings for the Town. Tim Biggs thinks the Town supports this idea.
Culverts also need replacing; Clint said the Town can do culverts for half the cost of contracting them out. Some roads also need ditching.
Brian moved to request authorization from the Town on the June 12 referendum for upgrading, repairing, and tarring roads by borrowing $500,000 at 2.5% for 5 years. Motion seconded by Clint, and passed unanimously. Ron suggested having a written appraisal of work needed to present at a public hearing.

Ron presented the new proposed Recall Ordinance, which limits recalls of elected officials to one official at a time. This is modeled on the new State Statute. He read aloud the requirements for a recall, which requires evidence for specific allegations of unlawful or unethical conduct. Brian said he would defer to Ron & Clint, because they’ve been through it, but while he feels there should be no requirements for recall, he also understands the need for this. Ron asked the Secretary if the ordinance includes a ‘once a year’ provision. She will review it and add it if necessary. Tim said he’d like to see the threshold raised for signatures required. Clint reminded the Board that the current ordinance has to be repealed. Ron moved, seconded by Clint, to place adoption of this ordinance on the ballot, seconded by Clint, and passed with 3 votes.

Ron has been in touch with the surveyor, who sent an estimate for more than expected, but for now he is on vacation until May 16.

NEW BUSINESS: Ron reported a request from a citizen for copies of tapes from 2 meetings. MMA rules say the we do not have to make or furnish copies, we do have to allow people to come into the office to listen to tapes, under supervision. The Board needs to establish a policy addressing this. Discussion followed about availability of tapes and minutes. Dave Bridges suggested it is important to establish that the written minutes are the official record of the Select Board.
Ron moved to establish policy that the tapes be available for listening under supervision, that the Secretary be put in charge of this. Re-recording will not be permitted. The Secretary should be paid her hourly wage. The time frame agreed upon is that tapes will be made available 7 working days from the time of a written request. Part of this policy will to establish that the written minutes are the official records of the Select Board. Brian seconded the motion; passed with 3 votes. Glen offered to type up the proposal for review at the next meeting.
Brian pointed out that anyone can record any public meeting; he also suggested that the Secretary's recordings might not be necessary. Glen explained that she tapes the meetings for her own use for typing the final minutes, to avoid errors and fill in anything she missed. Discussions, in addition to votes and seconds are valuable to keep a record of; detailed minutes also provide an interesting history of the Town. The discussions often contain valuable ideas, while debates on various sides of an issue are good to be able to look back on.
Ron reported that Bill Pickford (Planning Board Chair) requested a copy of the Selectmen’s ordinance; Ron is inclined to cooperate, but wanted the Board to consider the request. Ron does have a review from Kristin Collins, but hasn’t yet received her letter, which will explain that Ron has no conflict of interest connected to the ordinance(s) issue.
Bill thinks the PB will use a good deal of the Selectmen’s ordinance, which was revised from the 2006 ordinance.
Also, Ron requested from Gunner Wood the draft minutes of the last PB meeting; Gunner replied that he would send them after the PB approved them. Draft minutes are public documents. Brian will call Gunner to explain the Freedom of Access rules regarding draft documents which have to be made available to the public.
Ron moved to authorize Cindy to buy a new receipt printer, seconded by Clint and passed. The old receipt printer crashed her computer.
A couple of abatement requests and foreclosures were briefly discussed, which will be addressed at the next Assessor’s workshop.
Ken Boulier reported, regarding the lighting for the flags, various kinds of lighting (low-voltage, LED, and HID), and recommended two floodlights in front and one behind. Ken happens to have some 70-watt lights. These should be on a photocell, remoted to the snack shack, and should cost 3 cents per hour.
He would estimate the job at $250-300, not including the trench. Brian moved to hire Ken to install lights, not to exceed $300. Ron seconded, motion passed.

Ron will look into having the trench dug.

The next meeting is scheduled for May 21, 2012 at 6 PM.

Motion to adjourn passed at 7:50 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Glen Bridges, Sec.


APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
APRIL 23, 2012

CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Price called the meeting to order at 6:03 PM. Present: Ron Price (Selectman), Clint Spaulding (Selectmen), Erna Keller (Treasurer), Dave Bridges (Comp Plan), Glen Bridges (Secretary), Scott Holmes (ACO). Planning Board members: Bill Pickford, Gunner Wood, Drew Fales, Kevin Malady, July Nilson, & Prentice Grassi. Residents in attendance: The Ascrizzis, Bennetts, Bruggers, Stefanskis, Kirk Thomas, Willa Dibner, Nancy Bailey Farrar, Sallyann Hadyniak, Frances Walker, Winn/Payne, L. Widdoff, and others.

MEETING WITH CHAIR OF PLANNING BOARD: Ron announced that 20 minutes would be allotted to discussion, and invited Bill Pickford to speak. Bill said he learned that the Selectmen were creating their own Commercial Development Review Ordinance. Bill asked for an explanation from Ron why the Select Board is taking this action.

Ron explained that after reading all the Planning Board (PB) minutes, and attending 3 meetings, he found it alarming that the PB would vote to adopt such a cumbersome and restrictive ordinance from Jackson, written for Jackson and not Freedom. Ron’s experience was that any opinion or evidence or input to the PB was falling on deaf ears. He further explained that anyone can write an ordinance, just as Steve Bennett did when he was Selectman.
Bill brought up the money spent on the Comp Plan, and recited that it called for a Commercial Development Site Plan Ordinance. He asked why Clint supported this. Clint said the moratorium called for one Commercial Development Review Ordinance, not a separate wind ordinance and water extraction ordinance. Bill complained that Clint didn’t attend the PB meetings, and noted that Brian Jones attended a number of meetings.
Bill asked what the rush is? He said all they are doing is adding wind and water portions to the ordinance. They listened to advice of people from Unity, Montville, Dixmont, and Jackson, who drew up those Town ordinances.
Bill suggested the only difference between Freedom and those towns is that we have existing turbines, so we put in a caveat that any expansion of existing turbines would have to come before the Planning Board.
Clint said the ordinance clearly reads that no upgrades are allowed. Bill said we are only talking about expansion; we only want to hear about it. Bill feels that PB’s job is to write ordinances and administer ordinances.
In response to Clint saying he has no personal agenda here, Bill suggested that Ron does have a personal agenda; Ron corrected him that the ordinance only concerns going forward, and has nothing to do with BRW. Ron’s opinion is that the Jackson ordinance will be unacceptable to the Town.
Bill quizzed Ron about what he thinks should be reviewed, such as a third story being added to Freedom General Store. Bill repeated his accusation of Ron having a conflict of interest. Ron replied that the first thing he did was get a legal opinion, and that he has no conflict of interest.
Ron said when the revised ordinance is fully reviewed, they will sit down with the Planning Board and talk about it.
Ron asked Bill if he had used the 2006 ordinance at all ?
Bill replied that he’s been using it verbatim except for the wind and water extraction portions.
Ron asked, “So you added over 50 pages on wind?”
Bill replied that it’s pretty complicated, but Ron countered that it can’t be very complicated with a one-mile setback.
Bill asked why every other town has done the same thing - spent years on this.
Clint said they were scared into it. Glen added, by fear mongering. Willa added that she knew where the propaganda came from [Freedom], and that Bill cannot say “every other town”. Our abutting towns of Knox, Palermo and Albion have not done this.
Lisa Widdoff offered, “I served on the BEP and every project permitted at the local level has gone to appeal at the state level, with issues of setbacks. Sound levels have been lowered. The problem is the process. People are upset because of the damage being done to our ability to come to a consensus”.
Prentice, with 8 years on the PB, agrees with Lissa’s comments, and suggested the PB is open to debating it further, and could come up with something else if necessary. If ultimately the Select Board is the proper entity to draft an ordinance, then that’s fine, but also feels that Brian should be here.
Ron asked Bill if he understood what the Board is saying, and repeated that the PB will get a copy of the ordinance once it’s reviewed. And if there’s a consensus we can talk about it, so that we don’t have two ordinances offered to the Town.
Ron said enough time has been spent on this now…we will move on to other business.
Steve Bennett interrupted, expressing his opinion that the PB has come up with a very good ordinance. Bennett then attempted to speak about the select Board Chairman’s personal finances, but Kurt Thomas objected, and Dave Bridges declared Steve ‘out of order’.
Kevin Malady said the PB put the ordinance together to protect the people, not having anything to do with wind, and inquired why both ordinances can’t be put before the Town.
Glen Bridges, speaking as a former PB member, resigned the PB in protest of what they are doing. “They started right off by inviting Bennett and all his quack experts to testify, then they listened to 9 hours of brainwashing.” Then the PB went against the advice of the moratorium, against the advice of KVCOG, who advised you not to cannibalize another Town’s ordinance or pick arbitrary setbacks. Bill disagreed, but Bridges countered that she has KVCOG’s e-mail. Further, MMA advises in their PB manual, that switching the town names on another town’s ordinance usually results in “Frankenstein’s monster”. The PB set and voted on a deadline of June 12…do you now think the town wants to wait until November? Carrie Bennett has complained time and time again that the Town needs an ordinance (five years ago).
Bridges finished with one question for the audience: “ If you all knew that the revised ordinance would prevent any more windmills on Beaver Ridge, wouldn’t you be happy.” When the reply from Steve Bennett was “no”, Glen suggested there must be an ulterior motive.
Ron explained that nothing in the revised ordinance would affect Beaver Ridge Wind in any way. That was done on purpose to prevent any question about conflict of interest.
Carrie Bennett said when Ron spoke to the PB he objected to regulating turbine replacements, she doesn’t want to live near 3 MW turbines.
Ron again attempted to close this discussion.
Frances Walker said it’s over when the citizen’s want it over. “We will not stop talking, so go ahead and call the police. I dare you!”
Ron repeated, yet again, that the discussion is closed, at which point, the meeting dissolved into angry chaos, with Ms. Ascrizzi and Frances Walker hurling insults and accusations at the Select Board Chair.
Eventually the audience left, and continued disrupting the meeting from outside the door until a citizen closed the door, and the Board was able to turn its attention to the agenda.

SOLID WASTE REP: Meredith Coffin handed out new tips for recycling. New memberships have been sold, five towns have joined. The Tire warehouse has no more tire recycling service.
Has the town received the mailing from Greg Lounder?
Nancy asked about research on possibilities for transfer stations? It’s still underway, Meredith replied.
Aaron is pleased, some prices are coming up; our product is very clean. Wants to talk to Sullivan to see how many he is picking up in Freedom.

FIRE CHIEF: Ron reported that Jim wants to put the rescue truck up on Fire Tec. Nancy asked if the FVFD going to replace that truck? Clint said no, they don’t use it except for Thanksgiving baskets.
Nancy raised the issue of the hydrant. Why should the town fund the $13,000; what is their capital improvement account supposed to be used for? Are they willing to spend the proceeds from the sale of the rescue truck? Ron estimated the FVFD had $11,000, plus $6600 from Knox, before adding the new $15,000. Ron feels the hydrant would be beneficial to the town.

OTHER CITIZEN’S ISSUES: Jerry Stefanski is concerned that with Ayer Ridge Rd. full of joggers, dogs, walkers, people are going 60-70 MPH past his house. The Board agreed to put up a couple of speed limit signs.
Meredith Coffin reported that 2 road signs have been vandalized along Palermo & Albion Rd. Clint will call DOT.
Nancy complained that huge trucks are being left all night on Palermo Rd. at Gould’s, out in the driving lane. Others parked in the townhouse parking lot. Clint will speak to him.
Dave bridges reported on three issues that should be addressed.
1. The old Boynton property barn is about the fall into Sandy Stream.
2. There are 6-8 five gal buckets, with lids, on the old Town property on Stevens Rd. where the garage was torn down. What is in them? They should be disposed of.
3. Dave feels that for someone to be using a personal e-mail list for notice of meetings as happened last week is unethical. Ron commented that it is Town policy to post meeting notices properly [Sec. note: traditionally in three places].

REVIEW MINUTES: Clint moved to accept the minutes from April 10, 2012 were accepted as written; motion passed.

TREASURER: Erna reported:
Payroll for week ending 4/16/12……………………….$3107.77
Payroll this week 4/23/12……………………………….$1614.78
Beginning checkbook balance…………………………$229,062.72
A/P this week…………………………………………….$8880.36
Ending checkbook balance…………………………….$220,182.36

1. A check for revenue sharing was received for $3319.07.
2. Flagpole donations total $240 so far.
3. PERC tipping fee is $73.
4. Eight tax liens are still not paid; five are sending their payment by overnight mail.

Clint moved, seconded by Ron, to accept the Treasurer’s report. Motion passed.
Clint moved to sign the payroll for $1614.78, seconded and passed.
Clint moved to sign the A/P warrant for $8880.36, seconded and passed.

GENERAL ASSISTANCE: Ron reported no new applications.

SCHOOL BOARD: The School Board voted on and accepted the budget.

EMD: Christine has a meeting tomorrow night.

RECREATION COMMITTEE: A new swing set can be purchased for $2700, $1670 of which the Rec. Cmte. already has. Clint moved to use $830 from the Park & Recreation Fund balance for the swing set. Motion seconded and passed.
Ron added that something needs to be done about the old academy foundation wall. Clint said Carol thought that was a Town issue.

ACO: Scott reported that he contacted Maggie Smith and she will try to settle her fines within three months.

OLD BUSINESS: Clint raised the issue of a tax abatement of $221 for an error in taxing a resident who is in a nursing home. Ron will contact Jackie Robbins.
The owner of the Great Danes will have her fines paid in three months.
Ron asked if the Planning Board is holding a hearing about the floodplain Ordinance. Glen said they were planning to hold a hearing on April 10th, but didn’t seem to have posted it properly.

Bob Hermon started a challenge to raise money by donation for a new flagpole; so far the fund is up to $240. Sallyann offered to buy the flag.

Ron asked if Ken Boulier has looked into lights for the flags; he’ll talk to Ken again.

NEW BUSINESS: Ron read Glen’s letter of resignation aloud. Clint moved to accept the resignation and attach to minutes. Motion passed.
Clint offered his opinion that the Select Bd. should only appoint people to Boards who have the whole town’s interest at heart, not some special interest. Boards should have open minds, and not work for special interest groups. This happens on the school board too. Glen reminded the Board that their adopted written policy about appointments specifies that a candidate will work in the Town’s best interest, and not self-interest. This can guide future appointments.
Further, Clint suggested people have to prove an accusation of conflict of interest. Willa remembered Bill Kelly attending a meeting and addressing the issue.
Nancy asked why the Town would want an ordinance that drives business away?
Clint felt that even small businesses would be turned away by the PB’s version.
Clint said that the Selectmen have the right to be voting members of any Town Board or committee.
Nancy asked about the Planning Board ordinance. Aren’t they serving under the direction of the Select Board? Bill kept saying it is their duty to write ordinances, but Nancy felt that they weren’t doing their duty if they weren’t following the directions of the Select Board.
Glen explained that the Select Board gave the PB guidance and directions. Glen expressed her opinion that the Select Board is stepping in to prevent the failure of the PB.
Erna commented on how rude some of the audience members were.
Clint wondered if the turbines aren’t paying for the school tax increase.
Willa expressed her opinion that the reason some residents aren’t happy with the turbines is because they aren’t getting any money out of them.
Clint spoke about how a TIF would have benefited the Town by preventing the school tax from increasing. Without the turbines property taxes, Freedom’s mill rate would have been much higher for the last 3 years.
Nancy related how China has to have a quorum in order to vote at Town meetings. In order to do that, a Town has to have a charter. Clint spoke about how a charter would benefit Town governance; he’s been advocating a charter for years.
Nancy asked why the PB is working on a separate wind ordinance? Glen replied the PB had been working on a broad Commercial Development Review Ordinance, and spent a great deal of time (since Sept) on the wind portion, and are just beginning the water extraction ordinance. Their plan was to just keep working on it until they had a completed ordinance, which now will not be in time for the June 12 election. At their last meeting they voted to accept the wind portion. Glen pointed out to the PB, at that PB meeting, that it is physically impossible to “blend” Jackson’s stand-alone wind ordinance into Freedom’s former ordinance, to which Bill replied that they may have to have all separate ordinances and miss their June 12 deadline.
No vote was taken on that, Ron said, but said he felt the PB wind portion was not appropriate for Freedom, so he revised the 2006 Freedom ordinance, gave Clint a copy and sent it to be reviewed by KVCOG and Bill Kelly.

Ron asked if there was any other business - no.

Te next meeting is May 7th.
Ron moved to recess this meeting until April 30. Motion passed at 8 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Glen Bridges, Secretary

APPROVED MINUTES
FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
MAY 7, 2012

CALL TO ORDER: Ron Price called the meeting to order at 6:03 PM, with the following present: Selectmen Clint Spaulding, Ron Price, and Brian Jones. Also Scott Holmes (ACO), Rich Spinelli, Tim Biggs, Dave Bridges (Comp Plan), Pam & Bob Hermon, Chris Spaulding, Sallyann Hadyniak, Ken Boulier, Glen Bridges (Sec.), Erna Keller (Treasurer), Jim Waterman (FVFD), Hilary & Tom Fleming.

REVIEW MINUTES: The minutes from April 23, continued April 30, 2012, were accepted as written, to be placed on file.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES: Scott thought that too many people squeezed into the Town office on April 23, that it was a safety and fire hazard, and in the future should be moved to the annex.
Dave Bridges apologized for any inappropriate behavior on his part at the April 30 meeting. He also asked if the construction on Mitchell Rd. has a permit. Clint said the owner had come in for an application.

FIRE CHIEF: Jim Waterman reported that the ambulance, according to a FireTec appraisal, is worth about $7500-$8,500. One like Freedom’s sold for $15,000 with half the mileage. Freedom’s has 100,000 miles.
Jim said the parking lot would be washed down with the power washer.
Ron questioned Jim about the condition of the hydrants and how many we have; Dave Bennett had said they were all broken. Jim said they can use the ones near Avian Haven and Jim Little’s, and they are all OK. There’s one on Knox Ridge. He’d like to have one at the end of Rollins Road.
Ron explained that the Board agreed to put the request for a hydrant for $13,000 on the upcoming ballot, but that he is not sure how the Board will vote on where the money should come from, possibly some from the FVFD capital improvement account. Jim described how the hydrant would work.

ACO: Scott announced that all the dogs in Town have been licensed, there are still some fines not paid. He advised to be on the lookout for raccoons.

TOWN CLERK: Cindy needs to have all the information for the ballot by Saturday.

SOLID WASTE DIRECTOR: Hilary reported that she & Meredith have been researching the idea of a transfer station. We’d like to get more people to recycle. The opportunity to negotiate the GAT agreement is open from May 3 to July 6.

COMP. PLAN COMMITTEE: Dave reported the implementation committee has met once, and plans to meet every other Monday.

APPEALS BOARD: Dave said the AB should meet annually, and Addison was chair several years ago. Ron will call him to request they call a meeting.

HISTORICAL SOCIETY: The group is still trying to sell their usual items to raise money.

TREASURER: Erna reported:
Payroll this week……………………………………..$2481.00

Beginning checkbook balance…………….…..$239,052.09
A/P this week……………………………………………$43,002.95
Ending checkbook balance……………………….$196,049.14

Ron moved to accept the Treasurer’s Report, and to sign the payroll warrant and A/P warrant. Motion seconded and passed.
Vicky Larrabee has asked to use the annex on June 9 for a candle party. Cindy suggested she use the main office because the annex will be set up for voting. Ron moved to grant the request, but to come up with a policy by the next meeting addressing use of space, seconded by Clint and passed. Brian said he isn’t comfortable with commercial enterprises using Town buildings. Erna said most Towns have a policy letting residents use space; this event might involve 8-10 people.

OLD BUSINESS: Ron and Clint surveyed the roads. About 8 miles need to be repaved: Ayer Ridge, Mitchell, Bryant, and Greeley. Smithton and Rollins need major repair work. Paving now costs $55,000 per mile. There is only $50,000 in the summer roads budget, which probably wouldn’t even cover fixing the Smithton Road.
Ron suggested that we do it right, borrow money and make payments for five years. If $500,000 were borrowed from Key Bank at 2.5%, the yearly payment would be $107,623 per year, or about 1.8 mil. [See Treasurer’s report attached]. Bangor Savings would charge 2.85 % interest.
The town is looking at about a $140,000 increase in our school payment, amounting to about 2.3 mil increase.
The time frame for roads could be a problem, since it’s already May, and this won’t be voted on until June 12.
Brian thought that borrowing at 2.5% might provide a long-term savings for the Town. Tim Biggs thinks the Town supports this idea.
Culverts also need replacing; Clint said the Town can do culverts for half the cost of contracting them out. Some roads also need ditching.
Brian moved to request authorization from the Town on the June 12 referendum for upgrading, repairing, and tarring roads by borrowing $500,000 at 2.5% for 5 years. Motion seconded by Clint, and passed unanimously. Ron suggested having a written appraisal of work needed to present at a public hearing.

Ron presented the new proposed Recall Ordinance, which limits recalls of elected officials to one official at a time. This is modeled on the new State Statute. He read aloud the requirements for a recall, which requires evidence for specific allegations of unlawful or unethical conduct. Brian said he would defer to Ron & Clint, because they’ve been through it, but while he feels there should be no requirements for recall, he also understands the need for this. Ron asked the Secretary if the ordinance includes a ‘once a year’ provision. She will review it and add it if necessary. Tim said he’d like to see the threshold raised for signatures required. Clint reminded the Board that the current ordinance has to be repealed. Ron moved, seconded by Clint, to place adoption of this ordinance on the ballot, seconded by Clint, and passed with 3 votes.

Ron has been in touch with the surveyor, who sent an estimate for more than expected, but for now he is on vacation until May 16.

NEW BUSINESS: Ron reported a request from a citizen for copies of tapes from 2 meetings. MMA rules say the we do not have to make or furnish copies, we do have to allow people to come into the office to listen to tapes, under supervision. The Board needs to establish a policy addressing this. Discussion followed about availability of tapes and minutes. Dave Bridges suggested it is important to establish that the written minutes are the official record of the Select Board.
Ron moved to establish policy that the tapes be available for listening under supervision, that the Secretary be put in charge of this. Re-recording will not be permitted. The Secretary should be paid her hourly wage. The time frame agreed upon is that tapes will be made available 7 working days from the time of a written request. Part of this policy will to establish that the written minutes are the official records of the Select Board. Brian seconded the motion; passed with 3 votes. Glen offered to type up the proposal for review at the next meeting.
Brian pointed out that anyone can record any public meeting; he also suggested that the Secretary's recordings might not be necessary. Glen explained that she tapes the meetings for her own use for typing the final minutes, to avoid errors and fill in anything she missed. Discussions, in addition to votes and seconds are valuable to keep a record of; detailed minutes also provide an interesting history of the Town. The discussions often contain valuable ideas, while debates on various sides of an issue are good to be able to look back on.
Ron reported that Bill Pickford (Planning Board Chair) requested a copy of the Selectmen’s ordinance; Ron is inclined to cooperate, but wanted the Board to consider the request. Ron does have a review from Kristin Collins, but hasn’t yet received her letter, which will explain that Ron has no conflict of interest connected to the ordinance(s) issue.
Bill thinks the PB will use a good deal of the Selectmen’s ordinance, which was revised from the 2006 ordinance.
Also, Ron requested from Gunner Wood the draft minutes of the last PB meeting; Gunner replied that he would send them after the PB approved them. Draft minutes are public documents. Brian will call Gunner to explain the Freedom of Access rules regarding draft documents which have to be made available to the public.
Ron moved to authorize Cindy to buy a new receipt printer, seconded by Clint and passed. The old receipt printer crashed her computer.
A couple of abatement requests and foreclosures were briefly discussed, which will be addressed at the next Assessor’s workshop.
Ken Boulier reported, regarding the lighting for the flags, various kinds of lighting (low-voltage, LED, and HID), and recommended two floodlights in front and one behind. Ken happens to have some 70-watt lights. These should be on a photocell, remoted to the snack shack, and should cost 3 cents per hour.
He would estimate the job at $250-300, not including the trench. Brian moved to hire Ken to install lights, not to exceed $300. Ron seconded, motion passed.

Ron will look into having the trench dug.

The next meeting is scheduled for May 21, 2012 at 6 PM.

Motion to adjourn passed at 7:50 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Glen Bridges, Sec.


[CONTINUATION OF APRIL 23 RECESSED MEETING]
FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN/APRIL 30, 2012

CALL TO ORDER: Ron Price called the reconvened meeting to order at 6:05 PM. Present: Ron, Clint, Clint Jr., Meredith Coffin, Bob & Pam Hermon, Dave Bridges, Glen Bridges Francis Walker, Erna Keller.

OLD BUSINESS: Ron moved to withdraw the Selectmen’s proposed Commercial Development Review Ordinance at this time, due to the furor that erupted and accusations of conflict of interest made at last week’s meeting. Clint seconded, motion passed.

Meredith Coffin explained how the GAP program works as an opportunity to negotiate our PERC fees for guaranteed tonnage of trash.

Ron got a quote from a surveyor to locate Mildred Skidgel’s line and set pins. Mildred owns a sliver of land between Town land and Gerry Spaulding’s land. She is willing to sell it to the Town; Gerry has made an offer also. Spaulding’s land has been surveyed. Ron is concerned that buyer and seller need to know exactly where the property lines are. Clint suggested that since both lines are clear, and Gerry has his own survey, a surveyor might not be necessary just to locate and extend the pin. But the section at the end of the Town garage towards the end of Skidgel Lane needs to be mapped, and added that the Board needs to be sure there are no liens on the property.
The Selectmen examined the Town lot survey from a couple of years ago. Our sand pad is a little short on setback distance.

Ron reported that he & Clint have inspected the roads, and Clint said he has been getting complaints about the condition of certain roads, especially Rollins and Smithton.
Seven miles of road needs to be paved, and with culverts, ditching, etc., that would cost about $500,000
The Town has not been able to borrow money in the past because audits were not done, but now that they are up to date, funds can be borrowed for 2.5% interest. On one side, we don’t know yet what our school tax will be this year, and on the other hand, at the moment, interest rates are as low as they’ll get, but borrowing what’s needed could mean an $80-90,000 yearly payment (for 5 years).
Ron moved to look into borrowing up to $500,000 from Key Bank at 2.5% interest. Clint seconded, motion passed. Clint commented that if the Town votes on a referendum question for road funds and it fails, then at least the Selectmen have done their part. The road budget has been going down, according to Clint, and we need double what we budget for roads. We also should be using our excise monies for roads.

Ron asked if there has been a public hearing on the Floodplain Ordinance. Ron tried to call Dave Schofield, but his call wasn’t returned. Glen said she thought the Planning Board had scheduled and held one. Ron will check into it further.

Discussion turned to the Little League field; Ron will call Wally to invite him to the next Selectmen’s meeting. Erna said the field does meet Little League specifications. The baselines were dragged by Glenn and Dylan. Clint mentioned that Facebook gossip has said the field is not ready, even though it is…these people haven’t looked at it.
Parents and the ball players should be doing some volunteer work on it like they have always done in the past.

Regarding the lighting for the Memorial flags, Tim Abbott has volunteered to dig the trench to install wiring; Ron will call Ken Boulier again about it.

TREASURER’S REPORT: Erna reported:

Payroll this week………………………………………..$1362.11

Beginning checkbook balance……………………$239,052.09
A/P this week……………………………………….…$14,020.90
Ending checkbook balance……………………….$225,031.19

Erna brought the Board up to date on the status of 2009 tax liens. Clint moved to sign the payroll for $1362.11 and the A/P warrant for $14,020.09. Motion seconded and passed.
Clint suggested discussing any foreclosures at the next Assessor’s meeting; Ron said the proper process has to be used.

NEW BUSINESS: Ron raised the question of replacing the Recall Ordinance. Discussion followed about having some definitive process based on factual evidence, or repealing the existing ordinance and simply using the new State statute. Clint brought up several faults with the old ordinance, and added that he spoke to the lawyer, who said another recall cannot start until July 26. People should not be able to start recalls because they get angry with a Selectmen or have a personal vendetta. Ron moved to adopt a proposal for a new Recall Ordinance, seconded by Clint. Motion passed.

Discussion occurred about a cheaper electricity offer; Meredith said the owners of this company are owners of nuclear power plants and questioned the politics going on. Ron thought there must be a “catch” to it.

Sullivan’s has been charging fuel surcharges that come into play when diesel is over $4.00/gallon.

Frances Walker was asked about bringing the website up to date, such as the year 2007 mill rate and businesses that no longer exist, and Erna asked that all the staff’s personal phone numbers be removed. Clint asked if the Selectmen can access the site to post things, and Frances said no, it’s too easy to make a mistake. She also said she volunteers her time as webmaster and relies on someone giving her information on what needs to be brought up to date.
Frances asked if the warrant & annual meeting vote results couldn’t be available digitally.
Frances said she felt the Board did the right thing in withdrawing their ordinance; Dave adamantly disagreed. An extended discussion followed about Freedom’s turbines; Frances offered the idea that our turbines and restored mill could be a great tourist attraction.

Vote to adjourn passed at 8 PM.
The next meeting is May 7 at 6 PM.
Respectfully submitted, Glen Bridges, Secretary


APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
APRIL 10, 2012

CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Price called the meeting to order at 6:10 PM. Others present: Clint Spaulding (Selectman), Dave Bridges (Comp. Plan), Scott Holmes (ACO), Erna Keller (Treasurer), Sallyann Hadyniak. Dave Bennett (FVFD), James Waterman (FVFD), and Tim Biggs each joined the meeting briefly.

REVIEW MINUTES: Clint moved, seconded by Ron to accept the minutes from March 26 as written; motion passed.

CORRESPONDENCE: There’s a meeting at the Waldo Town Office April 11 regarding the county trying to get into the animal control business.
There’s training for traffic control safety.
An evaluation has come in from Jackie Robbins on 26 new properties, to be filed in the Assessor’s folder.

ACO: Scott had reports of several stray cats on Palermo Road, and a dog, which he took to the shelter. Maggie Smith has agreed to pay her fines over a six month period. He dog license fees are paid, late fines are not. Clint moved that this should be paid in full within 3 months, seconded by Ron; motion passed.
Ron Price moved to adopt a policy that there will be no exceptions to the licensing late fee rule in the future. Motion passed. Ron advised Scott to keep a log, reporting his activity, conversations, travel, etc.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES: Dave Bennett asked the Board to consider putting an article on the June election ballot to appropriate $13,000 to install a pressurized hydrant when the mill pond is drained. He explained that most of the dry hydrants in Town have cracked PVC pipe. They looked into two grants which wouldn’t work out, and he thought the FD Capital Improvement Account couldn’t cover it. He didn’t know where else to look for a grant.
Tim Biggs inquired about the dimensions. It would be 208’ of pipe below 4’.
The Board agreed to Dave’s request.

TREASURER: Erna reported:
Payroll, week ending 3/31/12…………………………………$2085.69
Payroll this week……………………………………………………….$1865.51
A/P Warrant 3/30/12………………………………………………$2153.20



Beginning checkbook balance…………………………………..$272,442.01
A/P this week …………………………………………………………….$53,375.32
(includes April school payment)
Ending checkbook balance…………………………………………$219,066.69

Pike’s quote for grinding and laying down road for 6/10 of a mile is $12,000, or $20,000 per mile.
Erna brought up the issue of Scott’s mileage. His pay was raised to off-set his mileage, and his mileage was raised. The Town pays only for out-of-town mileage.
Clint moved that mileage be paid from local address (where an animal is picked up) to out-of-town locations only, seconded by Ron, and passed.
The liens are down to about seven; deadline is April 27.
Ron moved to sign payroll of $1865.51, seconded by Clint, and passed. Clint moved to sign the A/P warrant for $53,375.32.

FIRE CHIEF: Ron is still doing research on the value of the ambulance; Jim is getting an appraisal online.

ROAD COMMISSIONERS: Clint reported that the roads have been graded, and need to be touched up and graded again after the rain.
The Selectmen need to inspect the two sections of Smithton Hill that need work.
Clint was contacted by a BS Paving Co., who looked at Bryant Rd. and Greeley; the disrepair on those two roads are beyond sealing. He has also met with RC Paving, and is waiting for a quote per mile.
Clint said the Town does not have enough money to fix these roads.
A crew of three will be going out to do cold patch. Bob bought a tamper.
The new planks donated by Tom Piersack have been installed on the bleachers by the Public Works department. Another hazardous problem has come up, that children are running along the foundation of the old academy. The Recreation Committee has put aside money for a fence. Discussion followed on how to resolve this.
Ron and Clint decided to go over and inspect the foundation and old well.
The Road Commissioners will have to drive around and inspect roads, and get together with the Public Works Committee to come up with a road plan for the June election.

GENERAL ASSISTANCE: One applicant received assistance; Ron took care of it, and has some more work to do on it.

EMD: No FEMA funds are available for road repair.

BICENTENNIAL COMMITTEE: The committee is going to be getting information out to all the Boards and committees in Town.

COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: A letter was received from Dave Bridges requesting that an Implementation Committee be selected to prioritize, strategize, and “get the ball rolling”. Two groups are needed:
1. A Conservation Commission, which might require an ordinance passed.
2. An Economic Committee.
Clint moved to appoint Dave to get it started; motion passed.

RECREATION COMMITTEE: A candle sale is going on to raise money. Also, there is a new Facebook page, the flagpole challenge, and the bottle drive.

CEMETERY COMMITTEE: Jon Willette will take care of cemeteries, and also he would be interested in attending any training on restoring tombstones.

BUDGET COMMITTEE: Committee is in recess. Sallyann suggested an earlier start next year. Ron expressed his opinion that the committee is too large, and cumbersome. It needs to be streamlined, and it isn’t necessary for the committee to review articles for the Town warrant – that is the Select Board’s job.

HISTORICAL COMMITTEE: Sallyann reported that the committee is back in session, meeting at Viola’s house. The recipe books, coins, and photo scrapbooks are still for sale.

PUBLIC WORKS: Will need to meet to formulate a plan for road repairs.

OLD BUSINESS: Discussion centered on InfoME, the company that would set the Town Office up to take credit card payments. Ron read the InfoME material, and wants to be sure the Town doesn’t get locked into something they’ll regret. Erna is looking into how other Towns like the system.

NEW BUSINESS: The Secretary suggested that the Selectmen start up a quarterly newsletter, which would help resolve issues before they come up.
Ron inquired about the process for updating the website. Minutes go to Frances, and she also puts on items from Sallyann. There seems to be a lot of obsolete material. The Board decided to meet with Frances, or perhaps she could come to a Selectmen’s meeting.
Ron raised the issue of the Select Board’s policy about spending funds for legal advice. Clint thought that no Town Board has the right to spend money for consulting services
Ron moved to adopt the following Select Board policy: “Any Town Boards or Committees who need to use legal services of the Town lawyer, or paid KVCOG consulting fees have to be approved by the Selectmen.” Clint seconded the motion; motion passed and the policy adopted.
Ron brought up the subject of the Commercial Development Review Ordinance. He stated that the Freedom Planning Board voted on 4/3/12 to accept their version of the Town of Jackson’s Commercial Wind Ordinance. The Select Board does not believe this ordinance is appropriate for our Town. Furthermore, it seems unlikely the Planning Board will have a completed Commercial Development Review Ordinance anytime soon. The Freedom Select Board proposes to submit an updated version of the previous 2006 Freedom Commercial Development Review Ordinance to KVCOG and the Town attorney, Bill Kelly, for their scrutiny. The funds for this action will be taken from the legal account. Clint seconded the motion. Discussion:
Ron further explained, in response to a question from Sallyann, that instead of going with the Jackson ordinance, as the Planning Board voted, the Selectmen are going back to the ordinance Freedom had before, with updates
Erna asked how we can have an ordinance that won’t allow wind turbines when we already have three – does this mean ours have to come down? Clint said Jackson’s ordinance would prohibit upgrading or replacing them.
Sallyann thought this Plan. Bd. Action wasn’t final, but Ron countered that the Planning Bd. did vote to use Jackson’s Wind ordinance, then moved on to discussing water extraction.
Clint said the Town voters don’t want to use other Town’s ordinances; Freedom voters want ordinances written specifically for Freedom.
Ron called for a vote; motion passed.
Ron reported that the backstop fabric was not nearly as expensive as was predicted, but he thinks he might get a donation for it ($300).
Clayton told Ron how to get rid of weeds (use a rototiller, but keep it shallow). Erna asked if Clayton had mentioned putting a screen on a lawnmower to prevent damage?
Ron reported that the Recall Ordinance has been sent to Kristin Collins for review and revision.
A hearing for the Floodplain Ordinance needs to be scheduled – has the Planning Board taken care of this? Ron will check with Dave Schofield.
The next meeting will be April 23 at 6 PM.
Adjournment moved/passed at 8:06 PM.

Respectfully submitted, Glen Bridges, Secretary


APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
MARCH 26, 2012

Chairman Price called the meeting to order at 6:02 PM, with the following present:
Selectmen Ron Price & Clint Spaulding, Dave Bridges (Comp. Plan), Dave Schofield (CEO), Jim Waterman (Fire Chief), Meredith Coffin (Solid Waste Rep.), Derek Higgins, Roland Robitaille, Ingrid Robitaille, Glen Bridges, Secretary.

REVIEW MINUTES: The minutes from March 12, 2012 were accepted as written.

CITIZEN’S ISSUES: Glen Bridges commented on the impressive list of important accomplishments by the Select Board in 2011.
Residents from Rollins Rd. attended to explain to the Board that the condition (mud) of their road is worse than ever. One resident had to be towed out. They all have to park at Greeley Rd., and the kids have to walk out to the school bus. They all pay taxes. Someone cutting wood is hauling it out by pick-up truck, making the mud worse. They asked for the Road Commissioners to please put Rollins on their work agenda.
Clint responded that there will be reconstruction on it. Trees need to be cut back, and 1200’ needs to be re-built, a culvert is needed, and ditching should be done. Ron suggested these residents consider coming to Town Meeting to help influence appropriations for road repair.

CORRESPONDENCE: A complaint came in about Burnham Hill Rd., which is actually Montville’s road.
Notices came in about trainings on bridge building and property tax assessment.
Pete Curra wrote a note saying he is interested in participating again in the State program for eligible seniors to receive fresh farm vegetables.

TOWN CLERK REPORT: Cindy submitted a draft of Town Meeting minutes.
1. The Select Board needs to sign a Boundary Line Agreement. Ron moved, seconded by Clint, to sign the agreement. Motion passed.
2. The Mutual Aid Agreement was approved by Knox. Knox will pay $6800 for 2012, with a 4% increase each year for 3 years, payment due on June 1.
3. The Porta-potty contract is due. Kids will start baseball this week, but will be starting over at Larrabee Field. Clint moved, seconded by Ron, to sign the contract. Motion passed.
4. Cindy submitted a flyer for spring clean up, May 19th this year, door to door.
5. A mailing will be going out to the Town for: Spring Clean Up May 19th, the increased price of dump stickers, and notice of the June 12 election. Absentee ballots have to be available May 12, and information for the ballot to Cindy by May 7th.
6. Cindy researched credit card payment information and presented the Board with a contract: The “swiper” machine is about $85, and involves a 2.5% charge to customers.
Ron moved, seconded by Clint, to sign the contract with InfoME and buy the swipe machine. Motion passed.
7. Cindy asked for approval to buy red mulch, 10 bags at $2.49 per bag. Approved.
8. Flags for cemeteries will cost $108, or 75 cents per flag. The Town needs about 10 dozen. Clint moved to approve; motion passed.
9. Bob Hermon thinks the Town Office needs a new flagpole. He donated $10 with a challenge to office personnel to match his donation. We need to start a campaign to raise that money. Discussion centered on a 20’ pole.

10. Cindy inquired about repairs/maintenance for the Town Office:
a. Repair and hang window shutters.
b. Bathroom blind needs to be replace; heating unit needs to be replaced or painted (it’s rusted).
c. The walls need a chair rail, and re-painting.
Erna reported that there is $2700 budgeted for building repairs; $800 was designated to go for the EMD’s office. Ron suggested getting the shutters fixed, the bathroom blind, and heater in the bathroom painted, but to wait to have the whole office painted until the EMD’s office is finished.

FIRE CHIEF: The Knox Town Report, page 4-8 is a response to the Mutual Aid Contract.
The FVFD wants to sell their old ambulance. How to do that? Put it on E-Bay? Clint said it has to be put out to bid, or E-Bay would be all right. Jim said it is a 2000 E450 diesel with new tires; the battery is dead. Jim thinks it cost $8500 4-5 years ago, and might be worth $1500-2000 or more today. It doesn’t suit the need it was bought for. Ron said he would like to research what it is really worth, and Jim said he would do the same.

SOLID WASTE DIRECTOR: Aaron has signed a contract for another year as manager. Meredith is waiting for the envelope from GAT to negotiate a new contract. UARRC has raised the individual family rate to $25/year, or $40 to include battery and e-waste. Bolsters has picked up a lot of contracts. The market for recyclables is up; 119,000 lbs. were sold in 60 working days. Hilary is working with Meredith. They are researching options such as compactors. [Minutes attached]
Questions came up about ways to discard tires; Meredith will check into it in time for Cindy’s mailing.

TREASURER’S REPORT: Erna reported:
Payroll 3/19/12………………………………………..$4236.48
Payroll 3/26/12………………………………………..$3062.68

Beginning checkbook balance……………….……$266,405.72
A/P Warrant…………………………………………….$8189.86
Ending checkbook balance…………………………$258,215.86
Foreclosure notices were mailed March 13th, and are due before April 28. Out of 28 sent, 17 have not yet paid, to a total of $18,173.13.
Clint moved to sign the payroll of $3062.68 and the warrant for $8189.86; motion passed.

CEO/LPI: Dave Schofield reported that he needs a signature from the Selectmen to approve a holding tank. Ron moved, seconded by Clint, to sign the permit. A public hearing has to be scheduled prior to a vote for the Floodplain Ordinance. Other subjects for a public hearing would be a plow truck, and borrowing money for paving.

ROAD COMMISSIONERS: Clint reported that Smithton Hill is in very bad shape. It never should have been paved without being re-built underneath. Clint would like to have the paving ground up and laid back down, and rolled. Christine will look into any possible FEMA help, and she’ll take pictures. Ron suggested finding out what that would cost (Kevin Keller is looking into it with Pike). 3000’ of Smithton needs to be rebuilt, and 1200’ of Rollins Rd. also.

EMD: Christine has a meeting tomorrow.

BICENTENNIAL: Meetings are the 3rd Tuesdays at 4 PM; next one April 17.

PLANNING BOARD: Glen reported a meeting is coming up March 28, a site visit at the mill at 5:30, followed by a public hearing and meeting to vote on the project’s Shoreland Zoning permit. Another meeting is scheduled for April 3 to vote on the wind section of the ordinance, and to begin considering the water extraction section.
Glen asked to be replaced as liaison between the Planning Board and the Select Board
Questions arose about appointments to Town boards in general – Glen will create a list for the Selectmen.

RECREATION COMMITTEE: Cindy reported to the Selectmen:
1. Tim Biggs is fixing the scoreboard, the backside rotted from lying on the ground. The supplies are $11; his labor is volunteer.
2. Tom Piersack is donating wood for the bleachers. Volunteers are needed to paint the picnic tables and bleachers.
3. Discussion about the fabric or netting that goes behind the backstop. Ron will check into a possible donation. Clint suggested calling Clayton for information.
4. Work on the field still needs to be finished.
a. Finish the field
b. A hole in the field to be filled in.
c. Weeds growing on the baseline.
Clint suggested having Bob Hermon do the work, and to ask Clayton what to use on the weeds. Ron and Clint will meet with the former volunteer.
5. $1000 was budgeted for lights for the Veteran’s Memorial flags.
7. Junk metal was dumped in the woods near the ballpark. Cleaning it up could be a Boy Scout project.
8. Picnic table need to be painted with deck paint.
9. A gazebo is in the works for the Memorial area, to be built by students at the technical school. The RC will make a $500 payment and raise the rest $1000.

OLD BUSINESS: Clint moved to limit the Board meetings to 6 PM to 8:30; to not go overtime without a vote of the Board. Motion passed.

NEW BUSINESS: Clint suggested that the recall ordinance be revised so that a recall complaint has to be factual. Clint moved to send the ordinance to Kristin Collins for review and revision. Motion passed.
A letter has to go to a resident, certified mail, to register her dogs or be fined.
Ron, Clint, and Bob will attend the training on building bridges, April 25 at 7:30 AM.
The next Selectmen’s meeting is April 9, 2012 at 6 PM.
Motion to adjourn passed at 8:15 PM.

Respectfully submitted, Glen Bridges, Sec.


APPROVED MINUTES/SELECTMEN’S MEETING
MARCH 12, 2012

Chairman Ron Price called the meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. with the following present:
(Selectmen) Brian Jones, (Selectmen) Clint Spaulding, (Town Clerk) Cindy Abbott, (Treasurer),Erna Keller (Fire Chief) Jim Waterman, (ACO) Scott Holmes, (Acting Secretary) Sallyann Hadyniak

First Order of Business:
Brian Jones nominated Ron Price as chairman of the board and Clint Spaulding second it. Ron accepted.
Clint Spaulding nominated Brian Jones as General Assistance Administrator and Ron Price second it. Brian accepted.

Review of Minutes:

Brian Jones made a motion to approve the minutes as reported and to be placed on file. Clint Spaulding seconds the motion, motion made and carried. All were in favor.

Citizens Issues and Concerns:

None

FIRE CHIEF:

Jim Waterman reported that the air compressor is on its way and should be arriving soon. The department sold the SCBA (self contained breathing apparatus) with an even swap with Dalmatian Services out of Colorado. Their getting the 4 SCBA’s with the bottles and we will be getting 2 refurbished SCBA bottles with a spare bottle for each.
Jim is anticipating at the meeting tonight the volunteers will come up with wanting to sell the ambulance because it is not being utilized and will not be replaced.
The radios have not been ordered yet but when they do come in, Bret will program them. They have been purchased at $140.00 each for a total of 6 radios costing $840.00. Christine (EMD) will have two, one for her vehicle and one for the office.
He thinks that Knox will accept a three year contract with stepping increases from $6,800.00 - $7,200.00 - $7,6o0.00. These figures may not be correct but there is a three year stepping increase.

ACO:
Clint went down to see the woman whose dogs aren’t registered and no one was at home. He made a proposal that the ACO, Scott Holmes stop going there and that the Board of Selectmen send her a letter stating that she has 10 days to clear up this matter or further action will be taken. Ron Price will write the letter and she does not respond she will be issued a summons.
Scott reported that there are 3 people who have not registered their dogs and he notified them and they have not responded. It was suggested that the same letter that Ron was going to write be sent to them. Also a form letter/notice should be sent out to everyone in January stating the consequences of not registering their pets. This will hopefully eliminate the same problem that happens every year.
Scott went over to Carol Richardson to pick up a mother cat and 2 day old kittens. The kittens are too young to be placed into a shelter and Scott was asked to foster them until they were a bit older.

ROAD COMMISSIONER:

There was a lengthily discussion regarding the roads and maintenance, Clint stated that the frost is still in the ground. Once the frost and mud season is over, they will be able to begin to spread a few loads of crushed stone here and there.
Approximately 100 yards of road needs attention.

TOWN CLERK:

Cindy said she will call Sullivan to see what dates he has available for spring door to door pickup, then let the board know so they can vote on a date. Her minutes of the Town meeting were incomplete at this point and she will post the results of the articles on the door of the Town Office.
At the Town Meeting the citizens directed the Board of Selectmen to write Letters to the following people informing them of the vote at the Town Meeting regarding the non binding resolution results to: Collins, Michaud, Snow, Obama, State Senators and Representatives
Brian wrote an introduction letter including the resolution, the Selectmen sign it, and the Clerk attest to it and it goes off in the mail. (This is regarding the petition)

GENERAL ASSISTANCE:

General Assistance offered one award in the amount of $565.00-$570.00; The applicants were notified that they had to apply for jobs. We had an emergency
From someone who did not qualify but we delivered 20 gallons of fuel oil that the town will cover,

HEALTH OFFICER:

Everyone is healthy!

Ron had a conversation with Heather Perry, the district is short 800 some thousand dollars of monies that they aren’t getting from the state and federal monies in our school assessment. We will be getting hit at the worse scenario with a 30% increase because of our increase in our valuation... Everyone got hit from 14-17%.
The school buses are going back to a one bus run,

EMD:

There wasn’t anything to report.

Bi-Centennial Committee:

The meetings will be held the third Tuesday of each month at the Town Office starting at 6:00 p.m. and volunteers are needed. Some ideas were suggested to have at this function.

TREASURERS REPORT;

1. Payroll Warrant this week is $3,213.86 (this includes 1 selectmen, ballot clerks from elections-town meeting and regular time cards).
2. Payroll for week ending 3./5/12 was $2,299.11
3. Beginning checking balance $257,778.03
Less A/P this week $12, 661.85
Ending Checkbook Balance $245,116.18
4. A/P this week is $12,661.85
5. A/P for week ending 3/8/12 was $3,444.56 (State Reports-Dogs, BMV, IF & W, Town of Knox, Town of Jackson, Waldo County and Rag of Deeds
6. The pink copy in the front of payroll folder-the new 2012 state wages.
7. Town Reports seemed to be a great success.
Clint recommended to pay Cindy and Erma $250.00 for making up the Town Reports. Brian second the motion, motion made and carried and all were in favor. Brian made a motion to purchase the binding machine at an approximate cost of $350.00 plus $80.00 for the covers. Clint second the motion, motion made and carried and all were in favor. Clint made a motion to accept the treasurer’s report and pay the Payroll warrant in the amount of $3,213.86 and the A/P Warrant in the amount of $12.661.85. Brian second the motion, motion made and carried and all were in favor.

OLD BUSINESS;

Ron was to write a letter to the lady with the dogs.
Brian has 3 abatements to issue next Monday at 4:O00 p.m. in the Town Office.

NEW BUSINESS:

Clint made a suggestion to limit the Selectmen’s meeting from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. A discussion followed. No decision was made but perhaps it can be brought up at the next meeting.

Erna stated that the 45 day notices were going to be sent out tomorrow regarding the liens.
Brian asked that the Town does not sell any of the properties until he returns back from vacation.

The next Selectman’s meeting will be held on Monday March 26, 2012 at the Town Office.

Ron Price made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:21. Clint second the motion, motion made and carried and ALL were in favor.

Respectfully submitted,



Sallyann Hadyniak
Acting Secretary


APPROVED MINUTES/SELECTMEN’S MEETING
FEBRUARY 27, 2012

Chairman Ron Price called the meeting to order at 6:11 p.m. with the following present:
(Selectmen) Brian Jones, (Selectmen) Clint Spaulding, (Town Clerk) Cindy Abbott, (Treasure) Erna Keller, (CEO) Dave Skofield, (Fire Chief) Jim Waterman, Jasmine Schmidt, Richard Spinelli, Scott Holmes, Myrick Cross and (Acting Secretary) Sallyann Hadyniak.


CEO:
Dave Skofield spoke to the board about the Public Hearing that was coming up on February 28, 2012 regarding Shore Land Zoning changes and the Flood Plain insurance. A one resident would be covered if they purchased the insurance. The town already has the insurance and but it will be running out in June because we allowed our ordinance to get too far outdated. The government wants it to be fixed. It does not cost the town any money to purchase it, but if a resident wants it, they must buy it. It would cost 10 times more if the town didn’t belong to the group. There is an article in the Town Office that Brian read as follows: “Shall the Town of Freedom amend the Flood Plain Ordinance to meet State and Federal Minimum requirements”? The answer is “Without this ordinance citizens of the town may lose their right t purchase Floodplain insurance from FEMA”. Dave confirmed that everything in that article is true.
Change in Article 37 now reads “wholesale or retail sale”, Dave did get the permission from the state to make the change in the paragraph.
Change in Article 38 a map amendment to the shore land zoning. The Main Street side of the river and up to the Mill Street side of the dam and from the dam to 137 will be a map change. The idea is to protect the two structures the town already owns.
Change in Article 39 a standard article allowing the Selectmen to sign the boundary agreement between Roderick and Betty Ann Powers-Luhn.
Cindy has copies of the above and will attach them to the warrant.
Copy of map attached to the warrant.
A total of 4 articles have been inserted by the Selectmen and the CEO Dave Skofield, regarding the Shore Land Zoning and the Flood Plain.
The Planning Board will go over the articles and if not accepted it will be passed over. It will be decided at the Public Hearing and only the Planning board can approve or disapprove of the changes. They want it done in time for the Yearly Town Meeting.

Review of Minutes:

Brian Jones made a motion to accept the minutes as amended and for them to be placed on file, Clint second the motion, and all were in favor.

CITIZENS ISSUES AND CONCERNS:

Jasmine Schmidt (aerobic instructor) who lives in Knox, spoke to the board about trying to find a place to hold low impact fitness classes once or twice a week for adults, seniors and children. She was advised to seek out Warren Spaulding, pastor of the Freedom Congregational Church. The selectmen will explore this situation and she can be contacted at 568-1073.

CORRESPONDANCE:

None

FIRE CHIEF:

Jim needs a purchase order for 6 portable radios through a Buy program which is located outside of Augusta. The radio’s cost $140.00 each for a total of $840.00. Jim is making a proposal that one of the radios is to be used by our EMD, Christine Spaulding. The County EMA will program her radio to the frequencies that she will need if this was an emergency center. If she wants a radio in her vehicle, Jim may be able to provide that for her also. It would be a total of two radios, one for her office and one for her vehicle.
Jim mentioned Electricity Maine once again and made sure that the people know if they are on a monthly budget, and sign up for the plan, their budget amount will stop and a new budget amount will be provided.
Brian made the comment about the fire department arriving at home in South Freedom in under 15 minutes, and a dozen firefighters showed up and shortly thereafter Albion, Montville, Luckily it was only plugged chimney and the house was filled with smoke.
Nicholas Larrabee from South Freedom signed up and will be taking a class in March, which is the basic fire school qualified for interior structural firefighter.
Rich Spinelli will give a report to Jim regarding the air compressor later in the evening at the firemen’s meeting. Jim also thanked the Board for maintenance on the furnace and suggested it be done once a year.

ACO:

Scott had a cat hanging around his house for a few days, picked
her up and took her to a shelter. He also received a call from Hazel Cross about a cat hanging out at her house, so Myrick will set a trap and when the cat is caught, he will call Scott,.
Scott also spoke to a woman about her dogs that are unlicensed and gave her two weeks to get them licensed. If he does not hear from her, he has been directed to go and speak to her again and give her a 10 day notice and report back to the Selectmen. All three of the Selectmen agreed to this after a lengthy discussion.

TREASURER:

1. Payroll Warrant for this week: $1,791.65
2. Payroll for week ending February 20th was $3,142.90
(Included 2 Selectmen and the CEO)
3. Beginning checkbook balance $280,049.21
Less A/P Warrant this week $47,611.98
Ending Checkbook Balance $232,437.23
4. A/P Warrant this week is: $47,611.98
(March school payment and Dwight Gould
Snow contract for March payment).
5. Received a check from MRC for $811.39
(4th quarter of 2011)

6. Do you want state wages added to warrants?
7. Binding Machine for the town book-prices varied from $150.00-$300.00.
8. The Town Reports are being printed this week.
9. Erna’s NIMS training was done on 10/21/2009. She has a copy from FEMA.
Cindy’s was done on 4/14/2006.
10. There is a report from Key Bank that $400.000.00 can be borrowed @2.5% for (Paving and roads)
11. County Tax is $98,161.15
12. The 2012 Municipal Revenue Sharing is projected to be $45,498.58.

Brian made a motion to accept the treasurer’s report and to sign the warrants. Clint seconds the motion Motion made and carried, all were in favor.

After a lengthy discussion regarding the paving and fixing of roads, that perhaps the best thing to do is to come up with a plan regarding the roads, then present it to the townspeople to vote upon as a referendum at the June meeting.
Clint suggested a straw vote be put on the warrant. Brian worded the following to be placed on the warrant:

This vote is advisory and does not legally bind the Town of any action.

To see if the Town will authorize the Selectmen to borrow up to $400.000.00 for the purpose of building and paving roads.

A motion for a straw vote and to include this article language was made by Clint Spaulding and second by Ron Price. Motion made and carried. All were in favor.
Ron suggested that it be placed on the warrant before the fire department\\

State wages were also discussed regarding Public Works. Discussions garbage stickers, Historical Society,
The Board of Selectmen looked over each article on the warrant and made the necessary changes that are seen and worded correctly in the warrant which is attached to the minutes.
Brian made a motion to accept the warrant as amended. Ron seconds the motion. Motion made and carried.

OLD BUSINESS:

There were 2 general assistance items; one was a pending decision among the Selectmen for a poverty abatement .and one was a general assistance case coming in tomorrow morning.

NEW BUSINESS:

Clint made a motion to try the thermal binding machine. The girls will pick one out to try it. Ron second it, motion made and carried. All were in favor. The Town Report will be dedicated to Bob Knowlton and Steve Cross and Janet Boynton. . Ron made the motion for the girls to pick out the color of the Town Warrant and Brian seconds it. Motion made and carried.

Ron wants to see the short copy of the audit and does not want all three years in the book. They can always be seen at the office. 2011 would be the short audit to go into the Town Report. Brian agreed and seconds it. All were in favor.

The next meeting is set for Monday, March 12, 2012

Ron made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:35 and Clint second the motion. Motion made and carried. All were in favor.

Respectfully submitted,

Sallyann Hadyniak
Acting Secretary


APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
FEBRUARY 13, 2012

Chairman Ron Price called the meeting to order at 6:06 PM. With the following present:
Selectman Brian Jones, Selectmen Clint Spaulding, (Town Clerk)Cindy Abbott, (CEO) Dave Skofield, (ACO) Scott Holmes, Donna and Glen Sporie, Jim Waterman, Ron Porter and Sallyann Hadyniak.

CEO
Dave Skofield, showed the Selectmen an agreement from Tony Grassi’s attorney regarding the borderlines (Mill Street had two boundaries by deed and they just want to agree on one and on the town’s side there are three lines, and they only want one). Cindy has a copy. They need a plan and DEP sat down with them and helped write an ordinance to make it work since DEP has to agree on it. There also will need to be an amendment to our ordinance for there will be different sections, such as a definition change and a setback change. It will be fixing the dam from the Unity line to the stream. It would be a big job to get the zoning changed so this will suffice. The next step is to have a hearing and then a public meeting, letters sent to the abutters. The Planning Board is the only one that can recommend state shore land zoning ordinance changes. Grassi plans to give the town a deeded right of way to get to the hydrant. Right now it is just a verbal one. A copy will be given to the town. Dave left documents with the board.

FIRE CHIEF:
Jim Waterman reported that a representative from Thompson’s Oil will make a list that will make the furnaces legally right. (Town Office, Fire House and Town Garage) A man is coming from the oil company to work on them Tuesday morning at 9:00 a.m. They will call Ron and Ron will call Kim Holmes to be at the fire house. Maritime Oil is doing the job.

CITIZENS ISSUES/PUBLIC COMMENT
NONE

MINUTES:
Ron Price made a motion to accept the amended minutes and place them on file and Clint Spaulding second the motion. Motion made and carried. All were in favor.

CORRESPONDANCE:
The Department of Human Services sent a letter stating that we were in compliance
with the General Assistance Program and that it meets the state guidelines.

PAYROLL WARRANT:
Cindy gave Ron the payroll to sign in the amount of $1,571.64.
Ron made a motion to accept the payroll and Clint second the motion, all in favor, motion made and carried.

No A/P Warrant this past week.

ACO:
Scott Holmes requested to go into executive session, therefore Ron made a motion to go into ES as per M.R.S.A. 4056A to discuss confidential records. Clint seconds the motion, motion made and carried. All were in favor. They went in at 6:36 p.m. and came out at 6:48 p.m. and no decision was made.
There is an issue with some dogs not being registered and the ACO has been directed to call on this person together with Ron if it is agreeable with all the selectmen to try to come to some understanding.
Scott picked up the list of 8 unregistered dogs and will be making house visits.

TOWN CLERK:
1. CMP contacted Cindy to say that Asplundh is in town tree trimming.
2. Cindy also called Frances Walker to tell her the Comprehensive Plan is going to be voted on at the Town Meeting. Also to change the wording so people aren’t confused regarding the dates. The voting is on the 9th and the meeting is on the 10th.
3. Article 3 (on the warrant) must say that the Comprehensive Plan can be viewed at the town office. Brian put the information in the Town Warrant Folder.
4. The State of Maine changed the hours of voting to 9:00 a.m. -8:00 p.m.
5. Cindy received complete packets filled with information regarding the use of a machine to be used to pay taxes, etc via credit cards. After a discussion it was decided to read the information and they would come back to it at another time. Brian took the copy to read.
6. Regarding Veteran’s they must be deployed from military duty combat for a minimum of 180 days otherwise they are not exempt for registration and excise. This is not ready for town meeting and more then likely there will have to be an ordinance for this. Most towns are adopting one.
7. Spirit of America award goes to the Rec. Committee. A motion was made by Brian Jones and second by Clint Spaulding. Motion made and carried. All were in favor.
8. Cindy reported that blue stacking chairs are missing. Apparently someone borrowed them before election and they were never returned. It was suggested that a sign out sheet should be made and that the chairs should be marked with a marking Sharpie pencil. There are still blue ones left but many are missing.
9. Cindy will be following up on the ordinance and the flood plain.

ROAD COMMISSIONER:
Nothing to report except, Glen was sent down to get the stuff for the damaged back wall in the town garage. Bob can’t do anything until the town meeting regarding the bad sills, pull out the bench and the whole wall needs to be repaired. All the signs have to come out of there also. New chains are in the garage.

GENERAL ASSISTANCE:
There was one property tax abatement did not qualify. One party received 50 gallons of fuel oil and due to an emergency. Another case recently applied for a
GA application. Clint met gentlemen that wanted poverty abatement and he needed help filling out the application and he should get something. Brian and Clint will meet with him.
Due to alternative heating, oil is down and gas is up!

HEALTH OFFICER:
Ron reported that there aren’t any health issues other then rabies has been reported in the southern part of the state. It’s a virus that is transmitted and we should all be aware of this.

EMD:
If everyone isn’t up on training, the town will not qualify for emergency grants or otherwise. The training has to be done only once and proof must be submitted that you took your training. The officers in the town of Freedom must have 175. Erna took 700 on line but proof has to be submitted. It can be done on line, Cindy took hers in 2006. That means, Cindy, Ron, Brian, Clint, Erna , Scott, Jim Waterman, have proof. It’s Chris’s job to keep track of the town according to Belfast.

BI-CENTENNIAL COMMITTEE:
There is a meeting on Tuesday, February 21, 2012 starting at 6:00 p.m. at the Town Office.

PLANNING BOARD:
The Planning Board meets tomorrow night (February 14, 2012) at 6:30 at the Town Office.

COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING COMMITTEE:
Sallyann reported that David gave her a letter from the Comprehensive Planning Committee to be put into the newspaper and Brian wrote a letter on behalf for grants for the community and Dave responded with some changes.

RECRECREATION COMMITTEE:
The bottle drive brought in $49.05. There will be a 50-50 at the Election and the Town Meeting for an upcoming fund raiser. The idea of a calendar will come up at a later meeting.

CEMETERY COMMITTEE:
We don’t have any rules regarding the vaults and should go by the state law because we don’t have an ordinance. Brian will look into it and get back to Helen.

BUDGET COMMITTEE:
Since we don’t know the increases of the county tax, the assessment of the school, in terms of money the town activities raise and appropriates, last year it was $485,678.00 this year it’s $447,100.00 so it was reduced about $40,000.00 so far.
Next budget meeting is February 27, 2012

OLD BUSINESS:
Clint and Brian will look at the audit reply form, sign the 1st page and send it back. The audit is for 2011.

NEW BUSINESS:
None

Christine talked to Tom Clay and he is a ham operator and is interested in helping and there was a discussion regarding an office for Christine, and just what could be done in the town office annex.

Monday there will be a selectmen’s workshop at 4:00 p.m.

The next meeting is Monday, February 27, 2012

The meeting was adjourned by Ron at 7:45 p.m. and all were in favor!


Respectfully submitted,

Sallyann Hadyniak
Acting Secretary


CORRECTED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
JANUARY 30 2012

Chairman Price called the meeting to order at 6:08 PM, with the following present: Selectman Ron Price, Selectman Clint Spaulding, Selectman Brian Jones, Erna Keller (Treasurer), Cindy Abbott (Town Clerk) Dave Skofield (CEO) M. Coffin (Solid Waste Director/ Regional Representative), Hilary Fleming (Asst. SWD), Tom Fleming, Sarah Bicknell, Rich Spinelli, Donna and Glen Sporie and Sallyann Hadyniak (Secretary).

Review Minutes: The minutes from January 16, 2012 were approved with the correction of the date of the next meeting. From Tuesday January 31, 2012 to Monday to January 30, 2012. Ron made a motion to accept the minutes and place them on file with the above change and Clint second the motion. Motion made and carried..
No task list was reported.

Citizen Issues and Questions: None

Review Correspondence:
1 The Board received a request for property abatement for property taxes but will be covered under General Assistance.
2 The Selectmen responded to a request from Mr. Backarack regarding shore land zoning, the meeting was held and resolved to everyone’s satisfaction.
3 The MMA request a document that Erna and the Selectmen have to deal with local government finance survey
4 Correspondence from MERC and the Unity Cycling Center that will be brought up by M. Coffin under Solid Waste Director/Regional Representative.

Town Clerk:
1. A petition was presented by Sarah Bicknell and Brian read the petition for a non binding resolution is placed on the warrant of the next regularly scheduled town meeting for consideration by the citizens in the town of Freedom. The intent of this Town Meeting vote is to influence the Maine State Legislature and the Maine and the United States Congress to amend the United States Constitution to explicitly state that corporation is not human beings. After a lengthy discussion it was agreed to have the petition on file in the office for those that would like to read it instead of attaching it to the Warrant. To sum up the petition; Ballot statement: The citizens of Freedom, Maine hereby urge the Maine State Legislature and the United States congress to amend the United States Constitution and the Maine State Constitution to clearly state that corporations are not human beings and do not have the same rights as citizens. FOR urging our state and federal elected officials to amend the United States Constitution to explicitly state that corporations are not human beings. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that, should it pass by a majority vote by the citizens assembled at Town Meeting a copy of this vote of non-binding statement on behalf of Citizens of Freedom be forwarded immediately to United States President Barack Obama, Senator Olympia Snowe, Senator Susan Collins, Representative Dennis Michael Michaud, and all members of the Maine State House and Senate. Ron made a motion to accept the petition and Brian second the motion. Motion made and carried.
2. A list of people that are on the ballot was presented to the Board of Selectmen, stating that Clint Spaulding is being opposed by Frances Walker for a three year term of Selectperson, and that Myrick Cross is running as School Board Representative unopposed. Erna and Cindy are unopposed. Absentee ballots will be available to be picked up at the Town Office starting on Wednesday, February 8, 2012
3. “Golden Rod” was chosen to be the color of the Town Reports. A motion was made by Clint Spaulding, second by Ron Price. Motion made and carried.
4. The Town Report will be dedicated to Steve Cross and Janet Boynton.
5. The Selectmen are to pick a local person, project or group to receive Freedom's 2012 Spirit of America Foundation Tribute Award for outstanding community service. Brian mad a motion to table this item and it needs to be in by the next Selectmen’s meeting. Clint seconds it. Motion made and carried, all were in favor.
6. Cindy received a letter from a woman that was sent September 30, 2011Rhe Flood Flan Management Ordinance is out of date. The respond time was 30 days and it has expired. Ron made a motion to turn it over to the CEO (Dave Skofield). Clint second the motion, motion made and carried and all were in favor.
7. Cindy has training on Thursday and Jo Ann can’t cover for her so she requested the office be closed from 9:30 AM-11:30 AM. Brian made a motion to accept, Clint second it, motion made and carried.
8. Unregistered dog license late fee starts February 1, 2012. Unregistered dog owners name goes on the warrant and it’s up to our ACO to follow up and the late fee is $25.00.
9. Cindy presented the Selectmen with a Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Report showing the difference over a 5 year chart the difference for each year. So that they can see how the excise tax is calculated.

a. The Tractor Excise Report for 2011 Total $1,289.76
b. Other reports given were the Tax Collectors Report for 2011 Abatements $14,280.00
c. 2010 Abatements $396.16
d. 2009 Abatements $194.59
e. Total abatements for 2011 $14,870.75

10. Tax Collectors Report for 2012 Abatements
a. 2011 Abatements $5,339.42
b. 2003-2005 Abatements $1,011,60
c. Total Abatements for 2012 $6,351.02 to date.

11. Non Zero Balance on All Accounts were given to the Selectmen.

There are 70 accounts which in total owe the town $68,896.67 for 2010 only.


12. There are a total of $143,985.00 outstanding real estate taxes for 157 accounts in 2011.
13. Outstanding real estate taxes for 2010 $68,896.67 Lien Summary
14. 2009 Erna sent out 45 day notice on January 13, 2012. The actual notice will go out 3/13/12 and the automatic foreclosure is 4/28/12.
15. One real estate in 2008. for a supplemental added for a garage amd the same thing in 2007. Cindy spoke to her.
16. 2006 nothing owed
17. Personal property separated individually 2011 outstanding from original is $6,299.40
18. No liens are filed on personal property,
19. Account 40 and 30 are asked to meet with these people and it is already set up.

TREASURES REPORT:

Ron Price made a motion to pay the warrant in the amount of $2,048.28 from last week. Brian seconds the motion. Motion made and carried. Just
sign. Checks are in with the warrant..

1. Payroll Warrant for this week is:$2,048.28
2. Payroll for w/e 1/23/12 was:$2,043.92
3. Payroll for w/e 1/23/12 was: $16.l5 due to an error on Erna’s part,
4. Beginning checkbook balance $224,804.22 less A/P this week $11,166.92+$127.50=$11,294.42
5. Ending checkbook balance $213,637.30+ $127.50=$213,764.80
6. Clint made a motion to accept the A/P warrant $11,294.42,
Brian seconds the motion. Motion made and carried.
7. $7,236.00 to be removed from the Historical Society recommended by the auditor, a motion was made by Brian Jones and second by Clint Spaulding. Motion made and carried, all in favor. The auditor suggested that all cash accounts be put into. the general fund, where they belong. Brian made a motion giving Ernar permission to transfer the cash accounts to the general fund, Ron Price second the motion. Motion made and carried. Motion made and carried, all in favor. The ball field and town park are all in one account. Park and Recreation. It is now one account. Erna needs to get permission to close the accounts and bring the checks back to the office. They then are handed to Cindy to be put through cash receipting. so it is done properly. Brian made the motion, Clint second it. Motion made and carried, all in favor. Erna reported that they have been having issues with Trio and they had to do the work manually. She and Brenda have been working together and they will go over the form1099 to get to the original balance. The Waterville Maine Humane Society has gone up to $1,020.98.
There is a contract in the folder that Clint signed. We received a refund check from the snowmobile club for $370.72 state of Maine Revenue Sharing for January in the amount of $4,347,06. Clint made a motion to accept the Treasurer’s report, Brian second, motion made and carried all were in favor.

CEO:
Dave Skofield wanted to make the Selectmen aware about the issues that are going on down at the mill is going hands down fast. He wants to be able to meet with Bill Kelly, the town attorney and get a revised ordinance in play to fix it so that it would work. Mr. Grassi’s attorney has already contacted him and Dave wants it .in time for the town meeting. He is working with the DEP and the state. Clint made a motion for Dave to continue doing a good job and to contact the town attorney, Bill Kelly. Brian Jones seconds the motion, motion made and carried. All in favor. Dave received an e mail from Grassi’s attorney and there are about 15 issues that need to be tended to.

SOLID WASTE DIRECTOR/REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVE:

Meredith Coffin welcomed Hilary Fleming as her assistant. They will be working together. Unity Area Cycling Center passed their annual budget to $166,916.00and it’s the third year in a row that they have dropped. Our bill is due 4/1/2012 in the amount of $5,349.70. She and Hilary went through the large packet they received from Brian and also Gary Stacey from PERC itself talking about GAT, The big thing to watch for is the GAT (guaranteed annual tonnage). The Budget committee has been asking how we can save money because our solid waste is huge. The big thing to watch for is the GAT trading period. (Guaranteed annual tonnage) which we missed last year and this year we want to be sure to send in our little ticket. Last year was the first time they imposed a penalty and we would like to avoid that. Right now we are unchanged at 250 tons. This year we would like to reduce our GAT so that we can know how much we can lower it by, Meredith has copies for the Selectmen and will send her report to Doug Van Horn. Regarding all the information she spoke about at the meeting. A lengthy discussion was held regarding tonnage, dumpsters, etc. We have a three year contract with Gerry Sullivan. The board will negotiate the contract with Sullivan. Ron thought a scale on Gerry’s truck would be helpful and he would weigh each dumpster. (He collects from several different towns and fills up his truck). Ron supports Gerry and stated that the cost would be a major consideration. We cannot expect Gerry to negotiate his contract until it’s up in two years. In the meantime we should think about what will happen at that time.
Increasing garbage stickers is a good idea and PERC is much cheaper then Sullivan’s.

ROAD COMMISSIONER:


ROAD COMMISSIONER:

No report except we have 1/3 of the sand left and it depends where you buy the sand on the cost per yard. Clint feels we don’t need to get more sand now, for he wants to get to the bottom of the pile and use up all the sand that has been there. Ron suggested that we buy 2 new bed chairs. The chains on the trucks are bad, they need to be replaced or links be replaced. Clint will take care of what needs to be done.

GENERAL ASSISTANCE OFFICER;

There was one applicant and he did not qualify for poverty abatement... The property owner is dead, the person lives on the property, and it is in probate.
Therefore it cannot be granted.

HEALTH OFFICIAL:

Ron Price reported that everyone is healthy!

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT DIRECTOR:

An office will be partitioned in the back part of the trailer for our EMD.
Glen Spore is working on that... There is wood in the snack shack to make the patrician,

BI-CENTINELLE COMMITTEE:

Moving along slowly but being worked on.

COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING COMMITTEE:

David Bridges, Chairman of the committee sent a letter to Sallyann to post in the column and in the newspaper. He also requested that the Board of Selectmen send out a letter to the resident’s. It will be on the ballot; you can read it on line or pay $5.00 per copy from the Town Office.

CEMETERY COMMITTEE:

John Willett is willing to work on the committee but does not want to be in charge. If you know of anyone that would like to be a supervisor, call the Town Office.

BUDGET COMMITTEE:

Is moving ahead and dealing with a lot of issues. They are trying to come up with a budget that will be friendly to our mill rate which is going to be tough. Next meeting will be on Wednesday, February 1, 2012 starting at 6:30 at the Town Office.

OLD BUSINESS:

Several abatements were settled, and other then that no other old business.

NEW BUSINESS:

We received a copy of a letter from Knox to Brooks regarding the fee schedule. Brooks sent out a sales proposal to the town of Knox and we also did the same thing. They will present it at their Town Meeting we are requesting a total of $6, 600.00.

Next Selectmen’s meeting will be February 13, 2012 starting at 6:00 p.m. at the Town Office.

Ron Price approved the minutes as amended and Clint Spaulding seconds it.
The meeting was adjourned by Ron Price and second by Clint Spaulding at 8:18 PM. Motion made and carried. All were in favor.

Respectfully submitted,



Sallyann Hadyniak
Acting Secretary


APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
JANUARY 16, 2012

Chairman Price called the meetin
g to order at 6 PM, with the following present: Selectmen Ron Price, Clint Spaulding, and Brian Jones. Also Town attorneys Bill Kelly and Kristen Collins, Scott Holmes (ACO), Dave Schofield (CEO), Erna Keller (Treasurer), Jim Waterman (Fire Chief), Tony Grassi, Dave Bridges (Comp. Plan), Chris Spaulding, Myrick Cross, Sallyann Hadyniak, and Glen Bridges (Sec.)

REVIEW MINUTES: The minutes from Dec. 29, 2011 and Jan. 2, 2012 were approved, with the correction of fire equipment SCVA to SCBA (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus).

OLD BUSINESS: Brian introduced Bill Kelly and his associate, Kristen Collins, who wrote Freedom’s recent moratorium, to Toni Grassi. Bill Kelly is here to provide guidance regarding the moratorium and Toni Grassi’s proposed mill renovation.
Bill advised that water dependent uses could be given a different setback, or spot-zoning in the Comprehensive Plan, Shoreland Zoning, and Commercial Development Review Ordinance.
Since the moratorium has lapsed, the Town would have to hold a special Town meeting to create a new one. A particular project, such as Tony Grassi”s, could be exempted. If nothing is done, and a building permit is applied for, there is a 45 day retroactivity available for a moratorium. Brian inquired if that is prejudicial; Bill replied no. However, it would be prejudicial if substantial money had been spent on project construction.
Retroactivity has recently been limited by State statute to 45 days from the date
of the ordinance being enacted.
Clint asked about the water extraction project, which is all developed. State permits have lapsed. The business has not been active because it is well water instead of spring water. In a moratorium, “new use” should be defined as opposed to “old use”.
Bill said what is already developed is grandfathered. If the Town were to pass an ordinance prohibiting artesian water being sold, he would consider it a “taking”. You can put into an ordinance that any use that is not active for a 12-month period is no longer permitted.
The water extraction project is ready to run but hasn’t been started because of marketing issues; Bill thinks this use would be grandfathered. Brian asked if you can go back and revisit the possibility of damage to local roads, could you impose impact fees?
Kristen replied that impact fees are very specifically controlled by State statute.
Dave Schofield asked if the Town could pass an ordinance limiting the amount of water extracted? Kristen said yes, but Bill said this is limited by having to have a rational basis, some scientific fact backed up by a qualified expert.
Ron pointed out there are 9 wells on the property, rated by the state for 10,000 gallons per day. When the Town did have an ordinance, Dave Pottle agreed to limit it to 5,000 gal per day. Bill Kelly said that when the State regulates a specific use like this, State law would trump municipal law. Town ordinances can be more strict than State if the State or Federal law allows for it. Bill said Home Rule is granted by the State; likewise they can take it away.
Ron directed the conversation to Tony Grassi’s project. Ron thinks the Town needs to give Tony a definitive answer so he can go ahead.
Brian moved to not extend the lapsed Commercial/Industrial moratorium, and to not call a special Town meeting to create a new moratorium. Clint seconded; motion passed unanimously.
Discussion followed with Tony Grassi. His plan would replicate the footprint of the mill. Dave S. mentioned there will be a lot of Shoreland Zoning issues. Tony said separate permitting processes would be required for the restoration of the mill and the hydroelectric generation.
Bill asked if a zero setback would help Tony’s project; Tony replied that the footprint would be replicated. The costs are not working out with costs he’s just been given. If he can qualify for tax credits, he might be able to make it work. Bill recommended putting in a zero setback, or “spot zoning” in the Shoreland Zoning Ordinance.
Ron asked Tony if he expects to be paying taxes to the Town? Yes, although it could be affected by being set up as a not-for-profit, but that doesn’t work very well for the project.
Brian mentioned a letter from the ME Historic Preservation Commission saying that the mill property is being considered. Would comment from the Select Board or Historical Society be helpful in pursuing being listed? It couldn’t hurt, Tony replied, but they are mainly looking to see if anyone objects. Being listed doesn’t preserve the building by any regulation, but without it Tony can’t make the tax credits work
Dave S. asked which ordinance to amend with a zero setback; Bill replied Shoreland Zoning. Bill mentioned that he doesn’t agree with Deidre Schneider of DEP that the project is not a water dependent use. Tony wondered which district the mill is in; Dave S. replied Limited Commercial. Glen mentioned that Deidre said she would classify a bakery as “light commercial”.
Bill & Kristen left at 7 PM.

FIRE CHIEF: Jim asked if we’ve heard back from Knox. No. Jim asked if there was a date yet for him to appear at the Budget Committee. A tentative date was scheduled for 1/25/12. Jim also asked for authorization to buy a new Porter-Cable air compressor on E-Bay for $399. Ron said he would like to look into this, check with Northern Tool, and get back to Jim.

ACO: Scott reported he tried to trap and shoot a skunk at Cross’s, but missed. He picked up a stray dog on Mitchell Rd and a cat in Town, both taken to the shelter. He got a call about a raccoon full of porcupine quills. He advised the caller to put the raccoon down (the caller did not want to do that).
Ron asked Scott if he is obligated to answer calls for wildlife. Scott said he’s been told both yes and no. Ron also reiterated “firearms and Town Officials don’t mix”. Scott said the Select Board needs to authorize him to use any weapons or he is prohibited. Brian confirmed that the Board needs to come up with some protocol for Scott using any weapons. Scott said he wouldn’t want to approach a rabid raccoon without a gun.


TREASURER: Erna reported:
Payroll Jan. 2, 2012……………………………………………..$1501.54
Payroll Jan. 7, 2012………………………………………..……$1945.67
A/P Jan. 6……………………………………………………………$44,522.68
(includes Jan. RSU 3 payment)
Beginning checkbook balance……………………………….$173,802.96
A/P (Accounts Payable) this week………………………….$15,908.95
Ending checkbook balance…………………………………….$157,894.01

Erna will be away from Feb. 10-19. She will do the A/P on Feb. 9th, and Cindy can do the payroll. The W2s are done and 1099s are next.
Vernice will be here tomorrow morning, Jan. 17th, and the Selectmen should be here to decide which accounts to roll over. Brian said he can’t make it.
The Selectmen moved, seconded, and voted to sign all the warrants.

CEO: No business is happening other than the Grassi project questions. Ron asked if someone wants to build a house, do they need a Plumbing Permit before they can get a building permit ? Dave said an approved subsurface septic design is needed to get the building permit. He thinks earth work, without any foundation construction, does not require a permit.

ROAD COMMISSIONERS: Clint reported that the Town needs to be thinking ahead about what to do about a truck for the future. There has been repeated trouble with the power steering lines on the truck. Seven or eight power steering hoses have been replaced since last year at $117 a piece.
The Town garage does not have adequate lighting, and is due for another inspection in March. Also, used oil can be more safely stored outside. A storage building is needed.
Brian moved to authorize Clint to purchase adequate lighting for the Town Garage to pass inspection; Ron seconded; motion passed. Ron said he’d like to see some figures before expenditure is made.
Brian moved to authorize Clint to have the Garage insulation finished; motion passed.
The Budget Committee wants to meet Wednesday, Jan 18 with Public Works.

GENERAL ASSISTANCE: Brian reported one applicant who didn’t qualify. Brian needs to know when the original GA ordinance was adopted; he will call the State to see if they have the information.

SCHOOL DIRECTOR: No report; Myrick Cross had to leave the meeting.

EMD: There is a training Jan. 30 which Selectmen should attend. The Select Board will meet Tues., Jan 31.

PLANNING BOARD: The Board is still working on a new ordinance, and meets Jan. 19 at 6:30.

RECREATION COMMITTEE: Brian reported that he wants to start on a skating rink. If he can’t find someone to donate plowing, then it won’t happen. Erna suggested creating a rink on the ground to avoid danger from snowmobiles.

PUBLIC WORKS: Clint called Lane for an estimate for paving per mile, information needed by the Budget Committee in order to discuss a long-range road improvement plan.
Tim Varney was quoted as saying a mile of 20’ road with 1” of asphalt = 650 tons at $750 per ton. Eighteen miles = $877,000.
The Town needs an inventory of Town culverts. Steel culverts last 20-25 years.
Plastic culverts last 75-100 years.

CORRESPONDENCE: Brian & Erna will take care of the Local government Finance Survey. Brian received a package for insurance coverage with certificate from MMA Casualty Pool. Regarding MMA insurance, Ron said we should be getting a reduced rate now that the audits are up to date. Ron will call MMA Casualty Pool.
Brian received an estimate from Barbara Vanderventer regarding Freedom’s tax rate resulting from the wind turbines inclusion in the State evaluation, with 2 options, assuming the school budget stays the same.
1. If State keeps existing mill rate, our increase would be $70,911.
2. If the State increases their mill rate, Freedom’s school share would increase
by $82,962.
Brian roughly estimated that would mean a 1.5 mill increase in Freedom.
PERC has notified the town that the tipping fees will be $76.50/ton.

OLD BUSINESS: Brian reported he met with Jackie Robbins after meeting with a couple of property owners. Mr. Bachrach wants to meet with the CEO and Selectmen.
Nancy Bailey had an abatement in 2010 that was not carried over; it should have been corrected in the records.
Brian moved to hold Assessors meetings/Selectmen’s work sessions on Mondays between regular meetings at 4 PM. Ron seconded; motion passed.

NEW BUSINESS: Brian raised the question of maintenance to buildings. Discussion followed about having the road crew work on buildings or other projects for less money, meaning they lose about $4/hour working on buildings. Ron pointed out that the office needs interior painting. Clint said overtime is not allowed. Brian thought this would be a good topic for a work session. Speaking of hours, Erna said the office time clock is missing.
Another discussion, what to do about the extra radio that came with the new fire truck, was tabled.
Chris Spaulding agreed to do the snow shoveling at the Town Office and Annex.
Brian said a sealed barrel has turned up at the Town Landing. Ron will call Jerry Sullivan.
Brian asked Glen to ask Cindy to post the change in Board meeting date from 1/30 to 1/31, and the new work sessions at 4 PM on Mondays between regular meetings.

Tuesday morning, Jan 17, meet with Vernice.
Meet Wednesday at noon Jan 18 with Jackie Robbins.
Emergency Management Training Jan. 30, 6 PM (check time & place)
Next Select Board meeting Jan. 31 at 6 PM.
Assessors/Selectmen work sessions every other Monday at 4 PM, starting Jan 23.

Motion to adjourn at 8:06 PM.

Respectfully submitted,
Glen Bridges, Secretary


APPROVED MINUTES/FREEDOM BOARD OF SELECTMEN
JANUARY 2, 2012

CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Price called the meeting to order at 6:11, with the following present: Selectmen Ron Price, Clint Spaulding, and Brian Jones. Also Dave Bridges (Comp. Plan), Chris Spaulding, Meredith Coffin (Solid Waste Director), Myrick Cross, Erna Keller (Treasurer), Cindy Abbott (Town Clerk), Glenn & Donna Sporie, Bob Hermon, Sallyann Hadyniak, and Glen Bridges (Secretary).

FVFD: Ron reported for Jim Waterman that the bill for repairing the fire truck pump came to $7696.82. The department is in need of a new air compressor.

ROAD COMMISSIONERS: Brian reported the roads look good, but warm weather has caused rutting on some roads such as Smithton.

GENERAL ASSISTANCE: One case is pending.

SOLID WASTE: Meredith reported that Hilary Fleming has accepted the position of Alternate Solid Waste Director. Brian moved to appoint Hilary for a 3 year term. Clint seconded, motion passed.
Meredith asked Aaron Paul the question Ron had previously asked: if UARRC’s recycling products are so clean, can we get a better price? Aaron said no, but we are assured that they want our product.
Aaron is sending a letter to 13 area non-member towns to offer them associate memberships (Albion, Belmont, Burnham, Carmel, Newburgh, Monroe, Stockton Springs, Liberty, Stetson, Waldo, Etna, Glenburn, Swanville). Meredith asked for references to contact. Kathy Littlefield in Waldo, Beverly Bradstreet, Albion, and John Krueger of Liberty, were mentioned.
Meredith is planning to go to the Budget Cmte. Meeting Wednesday. Brian asked about the future for cost cutting on waste management. Discussion followed and various ideas were exchanged. Our 3 year contract with Sullivans runs for 2 more years.

SCHOOL BOARD REP: Ron said the Town needs a nominee; Myrick Cross expressed interest, and will take out papers.

EMD: There will be a Waldo County Emergency Management Disaster Exercise and Program Jan. 30 from 6-8 PM, which Clint suggested Selectmen attend. [Secretary’s note: A select Board meeting is also scheduled for that Monday night]

TAX COLLECTOR: Cindy reported that receipts from the new computer are not printing properly. They don’t show which amounts go to which accounts, nor do they print a yellow duplicate for the customer. Brian explained the new computer program is not compatible with the receipt printer. She will call TRIO to see what they recommend, and also had a couple of prices from Staples on the cost of a new receipt printer ($299 and $499). Vernice advised to use only one computer for transactions.
Clint moved to authorize Cindy to investigate what it would cost to solve this problem, and Brian added to the motion to authorize Cindy to make an appropriate purchase to be approved by two Selectmen. Ron seconded; motion passed.
The Pitney-Bowes postage meter contract is due to be renewed. Since the current machine has been troublesome, Cindy suggested spending $1.50 per month more to rent a new meter. Clint moved, seconded by Ron, to sign the contract for the new meter. Motion passed.

BICENTENNIAL COMMITTEE: The committee meets Jan 10 at 7 PM, and is still looking for new members.

RECREATION COMMITTEE: Brian described his idea for having a Town ice-skating rink. The Town would probably have to pay to have an area plowed, and the FVFD could flood it. Cindy pointed out that it would have to be well marked to keep skaters safe from snowmobiles, and separated from ice fishermen.

PLANNING BOARD: Glen reported the next meeting is Jan. 10 at 6:30 PM.
Ron revisited the issue of having Planning Board minutes submitted instead of a verbal report. He moved to continue having Planning Board reports given as in the past. Motion passed unanimously.
Brian moved to have the Planning Board minutes be submitted. Ron seconded, but after discussion, withdrew his second. Glen pointed out that the Planning Board minutes are in a loose leaf on the counter, and offered to simply provide the book. Brian expressed concern that a verbal report could be biased; Ron replied that any committee report could be biased.

CEMETERY COMMITTEE: Ron repeated that a chairman is needed for this committee.

APPEALS BOARD: Dave reported that no meeting has been held; Ron replied that one should be held following Town meeting.

COMP. PLAN COMMITTEE: The vote will be March 9th; the Board will send out a supportive letter to the Town.

BUDGET COMMITTEE: Meets Wednesday, Jan. 4 at 7 PM.

OLD BUSINESS: With the moratorium expired, Clint doesn’t think the Selectmen should decide something that he sees as a Town matter. Brian repeated the advice from Kristin Collins, who said the “airtight” way to do it would be a Town meeting; if the Selectmen extended it, it could be challenged.
Brian moved to call a special Town Meeting to put it before the Town to extend the moratorium. Motion failed for lack of second. Ron doubts an expired moratorium can be extended.
Clint pointed out that a new business venture is coming to Town, and the water extraction business is grandfathered. He’d like to find out from Bill Kelly if the moratorium would prevent any small business from coming to Freedom.
Brian feels that the Town has the right and responsibility to regulate commercial development, and may petition for another moratorium. He read from the ordinance to clarify what is exempt, which listed home occupations and professional services.
Ron moved to have Bill Kelly come to the Jan. 16th meeting to advise the Board. Motion passed; Ron mentioned that it could be Kelly would send Kristen Collins.
Glen asked about having a 3 month moratorium as a compromise.
Clint suggested drafting a moratorium that would be specifically aimed at real industrial businesses.
Dave Bridges expressed his opinion that the moratorium is driving away any potential business, tax relief, and is unnecessary. He suggested all this energy be put toward attracting productive development.
Brian said he was elected to represent the will of the Town, and would like the Town to decide on another moratorium.

NEW BUSINESS: Clint brought up the problem of the heat in the Annex being left on when the building is not being used, wasting fuel. Chairs of committees need to be notified to be responsible to turn the heat back down at the end of a meeting.
Brian took the Select Board office computer to Belfast Ccomputers for repair; it could cost $150-200.

The next meeting is Jan. 16th, 2012 at 6 PM.

Motion to adjourn at 7:35 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Glen Bridges, Secretary