Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Minutes of 4/12/2022

April 18th, 2022

Carroll Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
April 12, 2022

“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 Heather Brown, Secretary
Board Members: David Scalley, Ken Mills, and Robert Gauthier (remotely participating).

Members of the Public: Vern Amirault, Bobbi Amirault, Mike Gooden, Rena Vecchio, Chris Pappas, Greg Hogan, Brian Mycko, Imre Szauter, Tadd Bailey, Robert Lemoureaux, Ben Jellison, Erin Oleson

The meeting was called to order at 5:00 p.m. by Chairperson Scalley.

Pledge of Allegiance.

Selectperson Gauthier stated that he was out of Town and would be participating remotely. There were no other people at his location.

APPROVAL of 3/29/2022 SELECT BOARD MINUTES – Selectperson Mills motioned to approve the 3/29/2022 Select Board minutes as written; Chairperson Scalley seconded. Discussion-none. Roll call: Mills-AYE, Scalley-AYE, Gauthier-AYE.

APPROVAL & SIGNING OF MANIFESTS – The Board confirmed they had signed.

FD QUARTERLY UPDATE – Chief Duncan reviewed his department’s status through quarter one, highlighting the following:
• Ambulance calls are up 18% from last year (2021); 2022-73 calls vs. 2021-62 calls.
• Fire calls are up 36% from last year (2021); 2022-34 calls vs. 2021-25 calls.
• Total calls up 23% from last year (2021)

The Fire Chief further explained that his department has expended 28.74% of its budget through 24.66% of the year, noting the payment of $49,000 for Engine 3 was paid in March. The Chief is not concerned with his budget at this time.

Chief Duncan updated the Board that he is in the review process for the 2nd Firefighter position and has three applicants, noting there would be upcoming interviews to determine the best fit for the Town. Selectperson Mills inquired about the interview process and asked if he could be part of it, only for educational purposes. The Chief indicated that he would let the secretary know when the interviews were, so Mills could attend.

Chief Duncan also updated the Board on the status of the items purchased through the GOFERR grant, noting that he anticipates the items being installed around the first week of May and status of the fan that was passed through a warrant article was expected within the next week or two.

PD QUARTERLY UPDATE – Chief Bailey reviewed his department’s status through quarter one, highlighting the following:
• The new server has arrived and currently they are working on moving the server room out of the sally port to inside the PD itself, due to heat and moisture issues, as well as the area being a better fit to house the server for longevity and conditions. The Chief explained that they would be working through the venting of the A/C and possibly some electrical issues, but are checking into it now.
• Both cruisers are operating normally, and currently waiting on some brake pads for the 2020 Ford, noting there is a delay with getting parts and the garage would let them know when they arrive.
• 2,472 calls for service so far this year (as of this morning), compared to last year, which was 2,543. Chief Bailey explained that the prevalent calls that they are receiving are assaults, mental health emergencies, alcohol/drug related items. Bailey noted that they are up 26% on drug related calls compared to last year. The Chief also mentioned that PD is working on a couple of felony cases. Bailey also explained that there have been 14 reportable accidents so far this year, compared to the 11 at the same time last year. Bailey further explained that that a reportable accident is an accident with injury or damage over $1,000. The Chief wanted to remind everyone that the moose are out to watch out while driving, noting the first moose accident the other morning.
• The Chief has been working with the Town Clerk’s office to get Town ordinance violations and fines paid online, which is a work in progress and not implemented yet, but expects it to be soon. This would allow fines and violations to be paid online vs. mailing a check or dropping off at the PD. The Chief noted that the vast majority of ordinances and violations the PD does are from out of Town.
• Speed radar trailers will be going back out in the coming weeks, estimated the week before Memorial Day.
• The budget itself, the PD is on par compared to last year, noting they still have 75% of the budget remaining, noting last year at this time they were at 70%.
• New Part-time officer, Ryan True, has been outfitted and will be coming up in the next couple weeks to qualify and do a ride-along, and hopefully by the end of next month will be able to start taking shifts as a part-time officer to assist with coverage.

Chief Bailey explained that there are a couple things he is looking into for next year:
• Five-year Taser lease program is up this year, and would need to be renewed for next year. Bailey explained what the lease program provides (issues with taser, batteries, cartridges, etc.) and is covered 100%.
• Chief Bailey further explained that the taser company (AXON) also offer body cameras as part of a lease program too, and is going to be looking into it as well, noting a few perks with leasing vs. owning. Leasing the cameras would cover any issues at 100% and video storage would be cloud based, allowing easier access to videos for the PD, as well as the availability for legal to view, without having to burn a CD for a copy. The Chief explained that he is currently looking into the leasing option of the cameras.
• Looking into adding personnel at the PD, whether it be a full-time position or going a part-time route. The Chief would like to sit down with the Board at some point to discuss.

Selectperson Mills inquired about the movement of the server and the electrical and if there was any impact on the warranty of the building, if any. Chief Bailey responded that he was not sure and was only at the infancy stages, and may not need to, as they are waiting to find out what the power requirements are for the battery backup and the server itself. Mills confirmed with Bailey that he was at the information gathering stage at this point.

Selectperson Mills inquired about the bodycams, asking if it was a new contract or lease. The Chief explained that the PD currently has 6 bodycams, noting that he budgeted this year to replace two of the bodycams at $1,000 each, but after looking into the lease program, he may not use the $2,000 this year out of the equipment line and sign a lease next year for bodycams, along with the taser lease.

Mills asked if there was impact of not purchasing those cameras now vs. waiting until next year. Bailey explained that to enter the lease right now, he does not have that expense in the budget, but in terms of the cameras right now, they are fine, as long as they have two operable cameras; currently the PD has four right now and there is no issue.

Chairperson Scalley asked what the lease program would cost. Bailey explained that he was waiting for the representative to call him back, but the numbers he has crunched it would be approximately $8,000 more than he currently has budgeted to do a lease program for both taser and bodycams. This would resign the taser lease for 5-years and do 6 bodycams as well. The cost would be broken up over 5 years. Bailey reminded that there is no coverage on the cameras right now, because they own them, so there is no warranty, and if one needed to be replaced it would $1,000 per camera.

Discussion regarding resale of bodycams, noting it may be an option.

Chief Bailey also explained to the Board that they have a dedicated computer for the bodycams because of storage and noted an instance where the computer updated and wiped the system, but because he was proactive, he had things burnt to CDs. With the cloud-based system, if they went with the lease, they would not have that issue.

Selectperson Mills asked Chief Bailey to put together a cost benefit analysis to better articulate to the lay person what benefits and value are to the community, noting $8,000 is a lot of money. Chief Bailey responded that was his plan, once he spoke to the representative, and then would break the information out, showing exactly what the lease covers, what comes with the lease, what the cost is, and the benefits of why bodycams and tasers are so important.

PD REQUEST TO EXPEND MONEY FROM THE COMPUTER CRF – Bailey explained that his breakdown to pay for the new PD server is: $1,190.00 from the donation to the PD from Bretton Woods Vacations; $2,500.00 from the PD Computer budget line 01-4210.10-304; and $989.01 from the Computer Technology CRF; for a total of $4,679.01. Bailey further explained that the total cost was originally approx. $12,000, but the PD got it for state pricing of just under $4,700.

Chairperson Scalley explained that he recalled that at previous meetings, that the Board agreed that if the budget passed, the cost would come out of the budget and not use funds from the computer CRF. Bailey explained that he said he would spend the donation, use what he had in the budget and whatever was remaining he would request to come out of the computer technology CRF. Discussion between Scalley and Bailey regarding if there was money in the budget to use for the server. Bailey confirmed no money was set aside in the budget for the purchase of the server and that if money was used from his budget he would lose it elsewhere, noting it was doable, but would affect some type of purchase down the line that the department had planned for this year. Ben Jellison and Chairperson Scalley commented that if the department did not buy the $2,000 worth of bodycams this year the money was still there, Bailey confirmed that if they went that route, it was certainly doable.

Chairperson Scalley also highlighted that the Chief was doing very well on his gasoline budget line (budgeted $7,000) and has only used $703 for the first quarter. The Chief confirmed, noting the State has been very consistent with their pricing.

They Chief also wanted to make the Board aware of another issue of outfitting the server, noting he would need to buy a rack and a battery backup, being additional expenses.

Chairperson Scalley asked that the server cost come out of the budget and not use the computer technology CRF. Bailey acknowledged and indicated that it would not be a problem. Chairperson Scalley asked if the Chief would have enough money in his budget for the rack and battery backup and inquired if it was a big expense; Bailey indicated that the estimated cost would be over $1,000 for everything the department needs to do. Chairperson Scalley suggested revisiting the topic when the Chief gets the pricing on the rack and battery backup; the Chief responded that he would find it in the budget.

The Board discussed further, noting not buying the bodycams could be $2,000 savings, but that is not in stone, as confirmed by Chief Bailey. The Board agreed to have Chief Bailey use the money out of the PD’s budget and not use money out of the Computer Technology CRF to pay for the server, further noting that if it needs to be revisited down the road it can be.

CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY (SMITH; 211-007-000-054) - The Board reviewed the certificate of occupancy. Selectperson Mills made a motion to sign the certificate of occupancy for Smith. The motion was seconded by Chairperson Scalley. Discussion-none. Roll Call: Mills-AYE, Scalley-AYE, Gauthier-AYE.

APPLICATIONS FOR CURRENT USE (OMNI; 4 LOTS) - The Board reviewed the four applications for current use for Omni: 421-006-000-000 (118.67 acres), 208-006-001-002 (74.81 acres), 211-042-000-000 (10.47 acres), and 210-005-000-000 (110.77 acres). Selectperson Mills made a motion to sign the four current use applications for Omni as submitted. The motion was seconded by Chairperson Scalley. Discussion-none. Roll Call: Mills-AYE, Scalley-AYE, Gauthier-AYE.

WATER WARRANT (RIPA, RIPA, MYLES) - The Board reviewed the water warrant for Ripa, Ripa, and Myles, totaling $2,100.00. Selectperson Mills made a motion to sign the water warrant Ripa, Ripa, and Myles. The motion was seconded by Chairperson Scalley. Discussion-none. Roll Call: Mills-AYE, Scalley-AYE, Gauthier-AYE.

97 LITTLE RIVER ROAD CLOSING EXTENSION – Chairperson Scalley explained that the property was sold via auction, but there are couple things that need to be clarified and legal recommended that an extension be filed to allow for the closing to be done on/or before July 29, 2022. Selectperson Mills made a motion to sign the first amendment to conditional real estate auction purchase agreement and deposit receipt. The motion was seconded by Chairperson Scalley. Discussion-none. Roll Call: Mills-AYE, Scalley-AYE, Gauthier-AYE.

NCIC – Chairperson Scalley explained that NCIC sent an email indicating that there is a waiver that the state issued, that NCIC and the Town (and surrounding Towns) can apply for. The Waiver would be to see if the Town qualifies for 2023 grants, noting that it may or may not go through, and there would be no fee to the Town to apply for the waiver. The Board discussed applying for the waiver vs. waiting until 2023, the waiver would put the Town back in the que for this year to get grants in 2023, no fee for the waiver, noting the Board would have to further discuss if the Town was accepted to determine the amount the Town would want to put towards. The Board all agreed since there is no cost involved, to be able to at least have an opportunity. Chairperson Scalley made a motion to sign and accept the waiver for NCIC. The motion was seconded by Selectperson Mills. Discussion-none. Roll Call: Mills-AYE, Scalley-AYE, Gauthier-AYE.

250th ANNIVERSARY UPDATE (VECCHIO) – Rena updated the Board on the status on the 250th Anniversary.
• Met with Rek-Lis on 4/1. They are definitely doing the beer; it will be a lager called “English Jack the Hermit”. Rek-Lis is willing to do a tasting the night before it comes out. Depending on sales, they may do a second batch, and if it is a good seller, they will bring it back next year. Rek-Lis will either pay us a certain amount per can that is sold or they could give us a flat donation. We can have tasting parties, possibly in their new tasting room. We could provide them a video of the happenings in the 250th. They will put a barcode on the back of the label that will either take them to more information on English Jack and/or our events. They will put out a little flyer on our events and advertise it on their Facebook page.
• Met with Carol Carlson-Cunningham yesterday and the Chamber today. The Chamber is willing to sponsor a yard sale (2-day event) over Labor Day weekend. Everything would cover in the cost of spots being sold, with no expense to the Town. The company that does the vintage fair in Bethlehem, they are willing to come do this for us. Expect 25-30 vendors. The Chamber insurance will cover all of the vendors on other people’s property. Rena asked the Board if some of the vendors could be on Town property. The Board agreed that as long as they are insured. Rena mentioned that they were looking at having food trucks as well. On Sunday afternoon when vendors close (approx. 4pm), the winners of the raffle. Raffle items include a canoe, 18-hole golf for 4 people with cart, and Mt. Washington Hotel 2-day package with breakfast for 2 with either golf or skiing for both days. Vern Amirault explained that they had discussed that if the first person drawn does not want the item, they could choose which item they wanted. The Board indicated that is the committee’s decision. Rena explained the chamber was going get local band and have a dance and was hoping to have it at the information booth and close off School St. Rena asked if a section could be corded off for Rek-Lis’ Food Truck to sell beer, noting Rek-Lis’ insurance covers everything, and they have to follow rules and regulations. The Board did not see a problem with any of the items brought up by Vecchio, their concern is parking with closing off School St. and crossing the road. Discussion regarding parking across the street and having someone there to help people cross. Mills confirmed with Vecchio that tonight was just to confirm it could be done on School St. Scalley advised Rena that if parking was needed at the old fire station for the event, he was approving it for her as the owner of the property, but did suggest that a crossing guard would be needed for safety purposes.

The Board asked that Rena keep them in the loop and that they would like this topic on the agenda as a follow-up for future meetings, noting if she had something she could discuss and if not, it would be tabled until the next meeting.

Rena asked the Board about having an awareness/coming out party for the beer and if the Board would be ok with using Town property, noting Rek-Lis’ insurance covers everything. The Board agreed that it’s been ongoing dialog.

Rena wanted to mention that Ken Mills and Sandy Pothier have opened the Busy Bee for the Historical Society to use this Summer for the 250th. Vecchio expressed her appreciation of Ken and Sandy letting the Historical Society use the building.

Chairperson Scalley wanted to remind everyone that anything that needs to be discussed should be added to the agenda, so when it is posted the public can see what is on the agenda vs. when something is brought up under other and a decision needs to be made by the Board, further referencing a few weeks ago with NCIC. Anything needing to go on the agenda, needs to be to the Selectmen’s office by Thursday afternoon prior to the next Selectmen’s meeting, especially if a decision needs to be made by the Board. Agenda is posted Monday.

FOLLOW-UP:

SCHOOL WITHDRAWAL – Selectperson Gauthier explained that we have received the SAU’s objection to the Town’s proposal/motion to the Board of Education and gave a brief overview. Gauthier advised that he would not be able to attend the meeting on the 14th in Concord due to his work schedule.

Discussion regarding who would be attending the meeting on the 14th in Concord. Chairperson Scalley and Chris Pappas will be attending, noting Chris will be sitting at the table with the attorney and Scalley would be there as a Selectman.

ROAD BOND INFORMATION – Greg Hogan explained that they are moving forward and only waiting on one thing, once received he can send to the Bond Attorney. Scalley confirmed that there is a conference call with the Bond Attorney on Wednesday at 12:30pm and Greg Hogan would be there as well.

OTHER:

Selectperson Mills asked about the DWSRF email that was received, further clarifying what it was asking. Mills indicated that he would not be able to do extensive research on this, as his schedule is going to be changing and would not be able to follow up.

Chairperson Scalley announced the new Library Hours effective Monday 4/18/2022:
Monday 4pm-7pm, Tuesday 11am-4pm, Wednesday 1pm-5pm, and Saturday 10am to 1pm.

Chairperson Scalley explained that Bobbi Amirault submitted for a sign permit today for the rec. area and asked if there was a fee. The Board confirmed that the fee is waived because it’s part of the Town.

Chairperson Scalley explained that they received an email from the Rec Director last night. Erin Oleson explained that the Rec. Committee was approached last night by Whitefield Rec., asking if they can use the baseball field at the rec. area for practices this Spring, because they had twice as many kids sign up, noting the team that would be using the field has a majority of Twin Mountain children, as well as the Coach also being a resident. The Board indicated that because it is another Town wanting use the field, it would need to be approved by the Selectmen. Oleson explained that she was unsure if the Rec. Committee could approve or if it had to be the Select Board. Scalley confirmed that it would be on the agenda next week.

The next Select Board meeting will be Tuesday, April 19th, 2022 starting at 5:00 p.m. and May 3rd, 2022 at 5:00 p.m.

At 5:55 p.m., Chairperson Scalley made a motion to go into non-public session per RSA 91-A:3 II legal and personnel. The motion was seconded by Selectperson Mills and polled; Roll call: Mills-AYE, Gauthier-AYE, Scalley-AYE.

At 6:24 p.m. Chairperson Scalley made a motion to return to public session and seal the minutes. The motion was seconded by Selectperson Mills seconded and polled; Roll call: Mills-AYE, Gauthier-AYE, Scalley-AYE. The motion passed unanimously.

Chairperson Scalley made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Selectperson Mills seconded. Roll call: Mills-AYE, Gauthier-AYE, Scalley-AYE; and the motion passed unanimously. Chairperson Scalley declared the meeting ended at 6:24 p.m.