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Minutes of 09/14/2009

September 23rd, 2009

Carroll Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
September 14, 2009

"These minutes of the Town of Carroll Select Board have been recorded by its Secretary. Though believed to be accurate and correct they are subject to additions, deletions and corrections by the Select Board at its next meeting when the Board votes its final approval of the minutes. They are being made available at this time to conform to the requirements of New Hampshire RSA 91-A:2."

Minutes recorded by Maryclare Quigley, Secretary

Board members present: Chris Hancock, Bonnie Moroney, Ken Mills.

The meeting was called to order at 7:03 PM by Chairman Hancock.

Members of the public present: Roberta McGee, Jane Ikasalo, John Foster, Carmine Fabrizio, Ann Fabrizio, Claire Gritzer, Rena Vecchio, Edith Tucker, John Karpf, Evan Karpf, Jeremy Oleson, Marc Brodeur, Bill Rines, Mike Gooden, Don Gadbois, Meredith Gadbois, Jeff Duncan, Chuck Jellison, Ben Jellison, John Trammell, Kelly Trammell, Bill Smalley

Pledge of Allegiance

The board announced the approval of bills and signing of checks.

Chairman Hancock made a Motion to: Accept the minutes for August 31, 2009 as written. Selectman Moroney seconded and the Motion passed unanimously.

Stan Borkowski’s report was received and posted.

The following items were approved and signed:

Water Warrant – Pappas, Tetrault, Gillery
Bond Release – Piper
Carroll Water Works Emergency Plan
Tax Exemption, Fairpoint
Thank You Letters

The reclamation bond purchased in 2007 for R.M. Piper Co for the original excavation project on Bill Rines’ property expired and to be completed, the insurance company required a release from the Town. (This had not been done previously as Mr. Rines believed he owned the bond.) The letter expressing approval was signed by Stan Borkowski, who inspected and approved the reclamation and the Board of Selectmen.

The review and signing of Carroll Water Works Emergency Plan was discussed. This was an update by Iron Mountain Water Services of Glen, NH, who monitor the town’s water. This Plan consists of guidelines to be used during a water emergency as well as the Chain of Command and outside contractors. Bill Rines said there may be a few changes in that we would be using local contractors rather than those listed who are from the North Conway area, which would not be practical. Chairman Hancock asked that the portion that pertains to drinking water be copied for Dr. Karpf to look at from the Health Officer’s point of view. Discussion turned to our two current wells, which as discovered during the water emergency in June, are too close to one another. It was reiterated that the Building Committee has given this top priority and have been working with Provan & Lorber. They are expected to come to the Building Committee meeting with a proposal this Thursday. They already have a lot of paperwork from the early 90’s when they engineered to do the whole town, but then it stopped. They are also having discussions about an alternate location for an additional well – at this point they are looking into the Lennon Road area.

A final invoice for historic research from the Old Town Road bridge replacement was not received as expected. Chairman Hancock made a Motion to: Table discussion for the invoice until the next meeting. Selectman Moroney seconded and the Motion passed unanimously.

Selectman Mills attended a program at Princeton University called Veterans Campaign, whose mission is to encourage veterans to run for elective office and continue their course of service to their community. He was very pleased with the workshop and particularly grateful to Seth Lynn, Executive Director of Veterans Campaign, and his staff; as well as two presenters: Frederick J. Rast, III, Mayor of the Borough of Atlantic Highlands, NJ; and the Honorable Jim Marshall, U.S., House of Representatives; for sharing their personal experiences as veterans and elected officials. Selectman Mills felt a note of thanks to each gentleman from the entire Board would be more significant than one from only himself.

Tom Geser from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, though on the agenda, was not actually scheduled to come until the meeting on September 28.

Bill Rines told the Board he had received an estimate to do maintenance and repair work on the Highway Department tractor. Because the machine is 13 years old, the company rep also worked up an estimate to replace it, which was roughly the same as was paid when the current was purchased. Discussion took place about the machine and though it is on the older side, it was estimated to have about 4,000 hours’ use on it. Hours of use varied, but it was thought by some to be up to 10,000. Therefore, discussion of possible replacement was not pursued. The Rep came twice to look at it and advised that it would be three weeks to a month for the work to be done. The quoted price is $14,626 unless there are other problems found when they get into it, at which time any additional costs would be quoted. Included in the quote is $2,700 to rent a machine while the Town’s is out. This would be brought up when they come to pick up the one for repair. Discussion took place as to the necessity of renting and Mr. Rines said we know there is at least a 2” line to be replaced, and then there is the possibility of an emergency or so. It was asked if he could schedule the water line work to be done now and the machine could be scheduled to be picked up in two or so weeks. Selectman Mills said he has a tractor that he’d be happy to let the Highway crew use if there is an emergency while theirs is out. It was noted that the repair work is warranted. Chairman Hancock made a Motion to: Move forward with the scheduled maintenance minus the rental unless it is absolutely deemed necessary. Selectman Moroney seconded and the Motion passed unanimously.

Mr. Rines also had several quotes for replacing the roof over the addition at the Town Hall. In the winter at times there are ice back-up problems and that is when the roof leaks. It was noted that there had been a problem almost since it was built as the metal roof had been installed improperly. It was asked why the quotes are coming in so late, and Mr. Rines said he had tried all summer, but couldn’t get anyone to bid then. It was also asked if there might be any recourse for the Town and because of its age, there is not. It was also asked about preventive measures that might be taken to avoid this in the future, and noted that more insulation had been put in up in the attic as well as additional ventilation being made. The insurance adjuster had come back in the spring and it was asked what the payment for the claim had been. The information was not at hand, but the Secretary thought it was in the vicinity of $8,200, with the $1,000 deductible. When asked if any of the contractors looked at the inside, it was noted that one did, as well as the adjuster. Further discussion took place and it was noted that all four contractors came to look at it and all are aware that it was leaking. It was asked if the Building Inspector would look at the information. During brief discussion, it was thought that Stan (Building Inspector) should review the proposals and contact the contractors. Chairman Hancock made a Motion to: Table the decision on a contractor until Stan can review the information and the contacts are made to be sure they understand the proposal, check the building where it was leaking, and to be sure that it stands up to code. Selectman Mills seconded, and the Motion passed unanimously. It was stated that the Board will review Stan’s recommendation at the next meeting.

The water meter problems are ongoing, but they are making great strides. Kelly Trammell explained she and Becki Pederson have learned that any meters ten years old or newer are under warranty, so that is good news! She went on to say that the majority of the problems are in second or vacation homes so arrangements have to be made to entry to do the repairs. It can be a drawn out process reaching the owners, but it is happening. Chairman Hancock stated that Bill Rines will dedicate one person from the crew to work on the problems until all the repairs are made. It is the thought that focus be on the fulltime residents to start and then set up appointments with the non-resident owners. Discussion took place about materials and equipment being on hand as well as assigning the task and concentrating on that until all meters are working properly. Mrs. Trammell also explained the reading process with the machine which is then uploaded to the computer. This is building the history to start the billing. They are hoping to do another reading in October when it is extremely important that they be able to read ALL of the meters. Mrs. Trammell also spoke of rules and procedures. She had requested copies from various towns to learn what might be in use and had made copies of those she received for the Selectmen to see. She would like to see these in place by October/November, as she said with more spelled out, enforcement will be easier.

Chairman Hancock asked if there was any Other Business, Evan Karpf said he hoped everyone was happy with the work done by the entry to the Town Hall. He explained that the Chamber provided the money for the plantings and Howard Hoffman helped him with the work. The Selectmen thanked Dr. Karpf and agreed it looks very nice.
He also said he had a thought that maybe next year an area could be set up so a vegetable garden could be put in and the children might come and be involved with it. Dr. Karpf also asked if a hookup could be installed for a hose, as it would be a great help for watering as currently he is coming with pails of water.

Donald Gadbois spoke of a culvert that had been put in on his property on Old Town Road. He said he wasn’t made aware of it and he wasn’t asked for permission to go on his land. He also said there hadn’t been any contact made with any state or federal people. He complained that the culvert is draining his swamp. Discussion took place as to how the road is classified as well as to the ownership as Mr. Gadbois believes he owns it. Bill Rines, Town Road Agent, explained this was a water emergency as with the heavy rain in June and July, there was flooding due to a beaver dam, and a real danger of losing the road. He went on to say that he had permission from town officials to put the culvert in and if the dam lets go again, the road will not be washed out. After further discussion, the Board stated they didn’t want to speculate, but would rather wait until more information and facts are received. DES will also be contacted to review the situation.

Chuck Jellison said he wasn’t sure if his was old, new, or other business, as he was here on the gravel pit. He said there are real issues with it. This morning, at twenty minutes to seven, machines were running and he asked the Selectmen what he is to do. He noted he doesn’t go to the police as it’s not a criminal event. He learned a cease and desist had been ordered, but the pit is still working. He said it’s been found in violation by both the Select Board and the Planning Board and he feels it is time to do something. Mr. Jellison asked the Board of Selectmen to do something about it. It is behind his house and it’s time to do the right thing. He noted if he has to go, he will go to Superior Court. The Selectmen said they understand Mr. Jellison’s frustrations and they noted that they were having a phone conference with town counsel later in the evening.

Jeff Duncan told the Board that no one wants to buy the old fire engine. They have done lots of advertising including trade magazines and the internet. It was stated there is an abundance of old fire trucks out there. Chief Duncan said he was looking for direction on what to do with it. Discussion took place with numerous suggestions from putting it outside the Station with a sign on it for best offer to having an auction or even to donating it to a charity. It was noted that regardless of what happens to it, it will still have to be winterized which will be done. It was left that Chief Duncan would probably try parking it outside with a sign.

Budget presentations followed with Joan Karpf and the Conservation Commission. Mrs. Karpf noted it is the same as the year before. She reallocated money under different lines but kept the same total. She added that the new line is for a donation to the Ammonoosuc River Local Advisory Committee, on which she and Leslie Bergum represent the Town of Carroll.

Annual LCIP Monitoring 10.00
Membership NHACC 150.00
Workshops 200.00
ARLAC 50.00
Operating Expenses 90.00

Total 500.00

Mrs. Karpf noted that on her printout of expenditures so far this year, the membership line was at $175 and asked if it could be checked during the week. Mrs. Karpf also presented a Warrant Article which they include each year, requesting that any money left over be put into the Commission’s savings account.

Next Mrs. Karpf gave the Zoning Board of Adjustment budget. She said she went over the past two years to get an average. It’s a bit difficult so used her best judgment in some areas.

Secretary Salary 2,500
Board Salaries 480
Postage 100
Office Supplies 50
Advertisements 250
Legal Expenses 1,250
Miscellaneous 1
Workshops 300

Total 4,931

Mrs. Karpf noted that she dropped the Chair Salary at $120, as she does not take one. She also asked that postage and miscellaneous expenditures to date be checked for clarification.

Claire Gritzer then gave the budget for the Trustees of the Trust Funds.

Salaries 840
Treas. & Chair, 313.00 (5 extra hours of work)
Secretary 263.50
Bookkeeper 263.50
Miscellaneous (Supplies) 130
Education/Seminars 661.80
(Training & Travel
LGC Conference for 3
NESGFOR Fall meeting
NH Charitable Fund Session

Total 1,631.80

Mrs. Gritzer gave a brief summary of the funds the Trustees manage and the status of each.

Jeff Duncan continued budgets with the Fire Dept./Amb. Chief Duncan had summaries of current year revenues to date, as well as charts and graphs of ambulance and fire calls from 2001 to date available. He briefly summarized 2009 and also included a chart of costs for the past five years. Chief Duncan advised that they are only proposing their budget this year – there are no Warrant Articles.

2010 2009 % Change if any
Fire Chief Salary 3,850 3,850
Officers Salaries 4,500 4,500
Full Time Firefighter 37,485 37,485
Firefighter Salaries ($10/hr) 15,000 22,000 -31.82
2nd Firefighter Position 36,000 36,000
EMT Salaries ($10/hr) 13,000 15,000 -13.33
Overtime 18,000 18,000
NH Firefighter Ins. 550 550
Office Supplies 700 700
Telephone 1,200 2,200 -45.45
Medical Equipment 2,500 4,000 -37.50
Inoculations 1,500 500 +200.00
Office Equipment 800 800
Software Support 2,800 1,325 +111.32
FD Equipment Supplies 1,250 1,500 -16.67
Medical Supplies 1,500 1,750 -14.29
ALS Medical Supplies 750 750
Oxygen 1,200 1,200
Defibrillator Supplies/Maint. 1,000 1,000
Dispatching (Twin State) 4,750 4,000 +18.75
Mutual Aid (Twin State) 750 750
North Pact Mutual Aid 350 350
Equipment Purchase 3,000 4,000 -25.00
Radio Repair 2,250 2,750 -18.81
FD Vehicle Repairs & Maint. 3,000 22,450 -86.64
FD Maintenance 1,900 750 +153.33
Ambulance Repairs & Maint. 3,000 3,000
Engine 1 payment 65,000 65,000
Forestry Equipment 700 800 -12.50
Extrication Equip./Maint. 1,000 1,000
SCBA Equip./Maint. 2,500 4,000 -37.50
Gasoline 5,500 5,000 +10.00
Travel Reimbursement 750 1,250 -40.00
Clothing 2,250 2,250
FD Protective Clothing 4,000 5,500 -27.27
Ambulance Protective Clothing 750 1,000 -25.00
EMS Training 2,000 3,000 -33.33
F.D. Training 1,300 2,000 -35.00
Fire Prevention 300 400 -25.00
Inspections 500 750 -33.33
Miscellaneous 500 600 -16.67

Totals 249,635 283,710 -12.01

Chief Duncan noted that this is a reduction of slightly over 12%. He said the decrease in firefighter and EMT salaries is that they have a better idea of numbers this year, but also it’s a sign of the shortage of volunteers. He pointed out the overtime is due to an average of two calls per week each, which is another sign of the shortage of volunteers. Increases generally are due to contract increases.

Last was Stan Borkowski’s budget for Code Enforcement and Building Inspection.

Code Enforcement Officer 7,000
Building Inspection 6,000 reduced to 5,000 by Selectmen due to slowness
in building
Training & Travel 450 (a new line to property inspections which he is
asking his three major towns to split for Residential and Certification Institute
which will be held in the spring)

As there was no further business, Chairman Hancock declared the meeting ended at 9:18 p.m. and moved to go into Non-Public Session for personnel matters. The Board was polled and went into Non-Public Session.

At the close of Non-Public Session, Chairman Hancock moved to return to Public Session and seal the minutes from Non-Public Session. Selectman Moroney seconded and the Motion passed unanimously.

There being no further discussion, Chairman Hancock made a Motion to: adjourn the meeting. Selectman Moroney seconded and the Motion passed unanimously. Chairman Hancock declared the meeting ended at 10:23 p.m. The next meeting will be Monday, September 28.

Town of Carroll, New Hampshire ®2024