Selectboard Meeting Minutes

Minutes of 4/19/2022

April 23rd, 2022

Carroll Board of Selectmen
Meeting Minutes
April 19, 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.

Members of the Public: Vern Amirault, Bobbi Amirault, Mike Gooden, Rena Vecchio, Chris Pappas, Judy Pappas, Greg Hogan, Brian Mycko, Tadd Bailey, Ben Jellison, Evan Karpf, Tim Cramer & Mark Hunter (Blaktop Inc.)

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

Pledge of Allegiance.

APPROVAL of 4/12/2022 SELECT BOARD MINUTES – Selectperson Mills motioned to approve the 4/12/2022 Select Board minutes as written; Selectperson Gauthier seconded. Discussion-Chairperson Scalley explained that secretary was made aware by Chief Bailey that under the PD quarterly update, page 2 of 6, the following sentence needs to be revised: “Bailey noted that they are up 26% on drug related calls compared to last year”, and it should read: “Bailey noted that they are up 26% on assault related calls compared to last year”. Chief Bailey confirmed. All in favor: Mills-AYE, Gauthier-AYE, Scalley-AYE.

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

ROAD BOND RFP’S – Chairperson Scalley explained that there were (3) bids that were received, noting all three bidders were present when the RFPs were opened at noon on Friday.

Central Paving - $1,241,959.00 (received 4/15/22 at 10:00am)
Pike Industries - $1,298,783.30 (received 4/15/22 at 11:44am)
Blaktop, Inc - $1,435,676.91 (received 4/15/22 at 11:53am)


Selectperson Mills asked several questions and noted that he would like to get Greg Hogan’s input. Mills explained that he knows Central Paving did work last year for the Town, but would like Hogan’s feedback on any pavers the Town has had in terms of past experience in previous years, quality of work, and in addition to the numbers, including timeliness, quality and durability. Mills explained that there were two bidders that, in his opinion, were competitively priced, and was looking to Hogan for any information. Chairperson Scalley noted that Blaktop was in attendance at the meeting.

Greg Hogan explained that he has had the pleasure of working with all three companies, noting they are all reputable, work, have the equipment, manpower to do what needs to be done, and quality of work is all good. Hogan further expressed that he could not choose one over the other when it comes to the quality of work, they are all good and he has never had any issues with any of the companies.

Discussion regarding standards with the State and federally in terms of roads. Tim Cramer with Blacktop confirmed there are standards and noted that all of the of the bidders are getting their materials from the same place, which would be tested to the State’s specs.

Selectperson Mills noted the cost increases daily, which Time Cramer (Blaktop) confirmed, and explained that there may be another increase in the month or so, but it is unknown.

Selectperson Mills asked about a time frame, and Tim Cramer (Blaktop) could not provide.

Selectperson Gauthier asked about a timeframe in terms of completion between the three bids. Hogan explained that deadline was put on, but has not heard of an issue that any of the bidders would not be able to meet that commitment.

Chairperson Scalley asked if there were any questions from the public. Tim Cramer explained lump sum job vs. by the unit. Chairperson Scalley explained that the bid package that went out was a lump sum price and the reason it was chosen that way.

Selectperson Mills explained that information he had been made aware of by residents, suggested that the roads may require additional considerations regarding the fill, rocks, etc. and inquired how it plays into the bidding process and getting the job done, noting he would expect more time and labor. Greg Hogan explained that the Town Highway Department was going to take care of that, like protruding rocks, etc. Chairperson Scalley further noted that the Highway Department would do this prior to grinding the roads, to avoid damage to the grinder and that not all of the roads need this, highlighting Blueberry Hill and Tuttlebrook will. Hogan confirmed and noted that it would not affect the availability of the Highway Department or traffic.

Selectperson Mills inquired about the timing of the project. Discussion regarding the best time to pave and the process, noting June, July and August are ideal, September at the latest.

Selectperson Mills inquired if a decision needs to be made tonight, Chairperson Scalley explained that it’s the Boards decision with Greg’s input. Greg Hogan confirmed his due diligence with the process.

The Board confirmed the Bond is for $1.3 million and anything above that would come out of the Town’s pocket. Chairperson Scalley explained that there could be additional money available because Birch Road was included in the paving warrant article, incase the other warrant article didn’t pass, noting it’s not a lot of money.

There were no questions or concerns from the public.

Selectperson Gauthier made a motion to approve Central Paving’s bid, not necessarily because it’s the lower bid, but because of the work they did on Little River Road. The motion was seconded by Selectperson Mills. Discussion-Selectperson Mills wanted to point out in his opinion that it is his understanding that the previous work on Little River Road overall, was positive with the outcome from the vast majority of residents, which weighed in his consideration. They have the past experience, lowest bid, and making the commitment now will allow the Town to save money and buffer additional costs. Selectperson Gauthier likes the flexibility, in terms of buffer, noting it is not any indication or lack of ability to complete the job properly out of the three bidders, but having the wiggle room. Chairperson Scalley asked if there was any additional discussion from the public, there was none. All in favor: Mills-AYE, Gauthier-AYE, Scalley-AYE. The bid will go to Cantal Paving for $1,241,959.00.

RECREATION FIELD REQUEST – Chairperson Scalley explained that Whitefield Rec (Steph Cameron is the Coach) asked to use the ball field in Twin on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays for their practices and games this spring, noting the field in Whitefield does not have bathrooms. Chairperson Scalley further explained that it was only discussed last week under other because it was not on the agenda and no decision was made. There were no questions or concerns from the Board or the public. Selectperson Gauthier made a motion to allow the Whitefield Recreation to use the field. The motion was seconded by Selectperson Mills. All in favor: Mills-AYE, Gauthier-AYE, Scalley-AYE.

Rena Vecchio announced that the Fishing Derby is on July 9th, and wanted to make sure that it wouldn’t interfere. The Board asked the secretary to let Whitefield Rec. know so there was no conflict.
SIGN PERMIT REC AREA – Chairperson Scalley reminded the Board that last week Bobbi Amirault inquired about the fee for the permit. The Board reviewed the sign permit for the Rec Area. Selectperson Mills made a motion to approve and sign the permit for the Rec Area and waive the fee. The motion was seconded by Selectperson Gauthier. Discussion-none. All in favor: Mills-AYE, Gauthier-AYE, Scalley-AYE.

HUNT PROPERTIES, LLC SIGN BOARD EXTENSION (SCALLEY) – Chairperson Scalley recused himself for this topic and sat in the audience. Speaking as Hunt Properties, David Scalley explained that he came across the Board a few years ago and asked for a sign extension, for the sign he took down (old Paquette’s), noting the posts are still in the ground with the concrete base, which was discussed with the Select Board at the time (Mycko and Bussiere). Scalley explained that he has not had the time to put it back up, as well as Covid hitting, the three years has gone by. Scalley is asking the Board for a 3-year extension, and will have a sign up within that time frame.

Selectperson Mills asked if his understanding was correct that in the past it was to preserve the right to put a sign back up, Scalley confirmed and indicated that he will be putting a sign up, noting that it will not be any bigger than what was there, it would be the same footprint. Brian Mycko explained that at that time, the Select Board gave Scalley the exemption to keep that, so the sign that was there could be taken down, and preserve his right to put something back up. Selectperson Mills made a motion to approve the extension of the sign for Hunt Properties, LLC. The motion was seconded by Selectperson Gauthier. Discussion-Bobbi Amirault asked what the sign was. Brian Mycko explained that it was the old Paquette’s sign for the old motel. Discussion about what the sign board might say. Vern Amirault asked what was going to be done with the old sign, Scalley explained that the sign is already gone. All in favor: Mills-AYE, Gauthier-AYE.

Chairperson Scalley rejoined the Board.

WORDING PERMISSION FOR PLAQUE ON BASKETBALL FRAME (AMIRAULT) – Vern Amirault explained that they put plaques on the frames here and the Historical Society would like to put some sort of brass plaque on the basketball court in Town Hall. Discussion of the wording to appear on the plaque and placement. Placement was suggested to be a lower center bottom like the other frames. Amirault also indicated that they are hoping to put the trophies up beside it at some point. Mike Gooden will get the exact dates of when the court existed (date installed to date removed). The Board all agreed that the final wording was decided to be:

Center Court
Twin Mountain School Gymnasium

Fabricated by and in memory of Kevin Greenlaw

BIRCH ROAD (HOGAN) – Greg Hogan explained that the waterline is going to be done, noting the line was dug up the other day and they are going to tap, so they will not be shutting anyone’s service off. The date for this is to happen could be as soon as next week. Hogan explained that the Town is going to adding a hydrant, after that, that is when there will be 1,100 feet of pipe will go in.

Hogan further explained that he is having a hard time finding a contractor because everyone is busy, and in discussion with Scott, they both (as licensed providers for this water system), want to work with Danny Garneau (Dan’s Dirt Work) for a number of reasons, most notably his safety practices, as well as being a very good operator, is conscientious, and hands-on and involved with all aspects of the job.

Chairperson Scalley explained that Greg and Scott would be installing the water line, and they feel best that Danny works well with both of them, as well as very familiar with water lines, cares for the safety for the Town as well as his own team, does an excellent job with clean up, and if there were any issues, he would be there to resolve. Scalley explained that in speaking with Hogan, the plan would be to go down Birch Road first, grind, dig the water line, and then it would be one of the last roads paved; Hogan confirmed.

Scalley explained that it is hard to find a contractor that works well with others, and on this job the Town (Greg & Scott) will be installing the pipe and hydrant and work in conjunction with Garneau. This would also save money for the Town, with Greg and Scott doing a piece of the job. Scalley feels that this would save the Town, time, money and expenses, if Greg uses someone he wants to use. Selectperson Gauthier agreed, and pointed out the safety aspect that Hogan mentioned. Selectperson Mills confirmed with Hogan that he did check with other contractors; Hogan confirmed and further explained that everyone is booked, and he and Scott work well with Garneau. Mills confirmed with Hogan that Hogan’s reasoning for choosing Garneau was safety, availability, and working relationship. Hogan reiterated that they would work together, vs another company coming in and the company doing it all at a higher price because the Town would not be doing a piece of the work, like they would be with Garneau. Chairperson Scalley also mentioned that Birch Road is not a very big water project; the Board noting that it would have to be worth a bigger company’s time, and the option of using Garneau might work better for the Town and the department.

Chairperson Scalley is all in favor of Greg and the highway department to make the decision on who he would like to use to install the waterline on Birch Road. Selectperson Mills and Selectperson Gauthier agree.

Ben Jellison, agrees that using Danny Garneau is a great idea, but asked if it was all figured in the cost of what was voted on. Chairperson Scalley confirmed that it was all within the budget, warrant article; Greg Hogan also confirmed.

Chairperson Scalley also confirmed that the warrant article for Birch Road was for waterline and paving, noting the Bond also included the paving of Birch Road, noting there may be a little bit of money left over.

SELECTMAN GAUTHIER ANNOUNCEMENT – Selectman Gauthier informed the Board that effective 5/9/2022 he would be resigning from the Board, as he will officially no longer be a resident of Twin. A copy of what Selectperson Gauthier read is attached to these minutes.

The crowd applauded Gauthier’s announcement and Chairperson Scalley thanked him for everything he has done and wished him the best on his new endeavor, noting you can’t hold someone back from bettering themselves.

FOLLOW-UP:

SCHOOL WITHDRAWAL – Chairperson Scalley explained that he went to the meeting on April 14th with Chris Pappas. Chris Pappas reviewed the meetings highlights, noting the next meeting is May 12th, and that the decision could go either way. Chris Pappas thanked Selectperson Gauthier for everything he has done with this. Chris Pappas further explained that the SAU is having a meeting this Thursday, which he will not be able to attend, however Ben Jellison will be going in his absence. Chairperson Scalley explained that with Gauthier leaving, he would be the Selectmen’s rep, with Chris Pappas and Ben Jellison, further nothing that Chris Pappas would be the go-to person; Chris Pappas confirmed he would be the go-to person. Selectperson Gauthier also confirmed that he is planning on attending the meeting on Thursday.

Ben Jellison reviewed information pertaining to the upcoming May meeting in Durham with the State Board. Jellison also explained that it has been the same argument in the past, 1987, 1988, again in 2004, and now.

250th ANNIVERSARY UPDATE – Rena Vecchio updated the Board with the status of the celebration’s happenings:
• A sample of the banner was shown to the Board. They are $130 each and they want to get 10.
• Shawn from Bethlehem and the vintage market at the Wayside has 5,200 people go through last year in two days, and he is offering a space for us to put the canoe, tee shirts, ornaments, etc. at no charge.
• Unveiling of Henry Ward Beecher’s historical marker on July 8th at 1:00pm. They would like the Selectmen to be in attendance if they could. The marker is on Route 3 North, somewhere across the street from the information center.
• Aaron & Alex Foti with Bretton Woods Vacations is sponsoring the Fireworks the Sunday night of Labor Day.
• Ordered 3,000 tickets for the raffles last week. There are 3 prizes.

OTHER:

Selectperson Mills wanted to make everyone aware that his availability is going to be shifting and may stabilize later in the summer; explaining that has his flight physical tomorrow and expects to be in touch with his employer to the point of availability. Mills also thanked Selectperson Gauthier for his service and voiced that he has enjoyed working with both Selectmen.

Chairperson Scalley explained that there may be a couple of months where the Board might have to have meetings on different days and times because of Mills’ changing schedule, noting it could be last minute, but they would let the public know in advance with as much notice as possible.

Ben Jellison asked the Board what their plan is to replace Gauthier. Chairperson Scalley responded that the Board has not decided yet. Jellison confirmed that it would be discussed at a meeting, Scalley confirmed it would. Jellison wanted to personally encourage the Board to do so sooner rather than later, knowing that Mills’ schedule is going to be changing, and that if something should happen and an emergency meeting is needed with majority vote, there could be issues if Mills’ is not available. The Board agreed. Jellison explained that he is looking at it from the election perspective, as the moderator, noting that it was a pretty close race this time around (within 5 votes) and the Board should bare that in mind as the Board makes some decisions.

Chairperson Scalley wanted to thank Selectperson Gauthier again for his service and appreciates everything he has done.

Evan Karpf wanted to bring to the Boards attention on a life safety situation, as the Selectmen’s attention on this matter is needed. Karpf indicated that Chief Bailey is in agreement with him. Karpf went on to explain that trucks park in front of Yaya’s and you cannot see to get out, noting multiple times where cars almost got into an accident. Karpf explained that he has contacted DOT, the Department of Safety, and Edith Tucker, which he was told it all comes down to the Select Board, even though it is a state road. Karpf explained that it is an easy fix with “no parking” signs being put up in the area. Karpf noted that some trucks are aware and they do park a little further up, so it does not block the view. Karpf showed pictures to illustrate the situation to the Board. A copy of the pictures is attached to these minutes. Karpf believes that a few no parking signs would eliminate the problem and would not impact the business. Karpf brought up the no parking signs that were put up on route 3 South and by the Cog Train. Karpf is bringing this to the Boards attention because it is a life safety issue, he has witnessed and experienced the events that have occurred and believes it’s a simple fix. Chairperson Scalley explained that this was not noticed and would be on the next meeting agenda for 5/3/2022. Karpf acknowledged.

Discussion of thinks coming up under other and not being noticed properly.

Selectperson Mills asked for any information that Karpf has received regarding this, and is glad that Karpf is bringing this to the Boards attention.

Karpf also stated that someone at DOT told him that may take a warrant article, while someone else said it needed to be requested by the Select Board of the Town, which is confusing because it is a state road. Karpf then explained that he got copies of the RSAs for the no parking signs that are already in the Town. Karpf indicated that he would do his due diligence in regards to if a warrant article needs to be written or can it be a request by the Select Board.

Selectperson Gauthier asked if Karpf had gone to Yaya’s to ask if there was anything they could put out there to get the word out to the truckers, in terms of where parking. Karpf responded that he has not, but noted that signs that get put up, get taken down by DOT, because they don’t allow you to post signs by the road. Karpf agreed that it may be worth while to make that request.

Discussion of no parking signs over by Zealand. Discussion of responsibilities of who posts the signs.

The Board with Karpf that he would be on the agenda for 5/3/2022 and asked that he give any information that he has to the secretary before next Thursday. Chairperson Scalley wanted to acknowledge that he is the owner of the building that Yaya’s rents.

Rena Vecchio asked the Board to look into the lights in the Town that we pay for, noting the intersection is dark at night, and the state or Eversource took out the lights. Vecchio remembers previous conversations about wanting to lower the cost of the lights/electric bills. Chairperson Scalley responded that the cost of the street light bill has gone down. Selectperson Mills explained that the lights are tariffed, but there is nothing that precludes citizens from calling Eversource that there is a light out, they ask for the pole number and they are very helpful.

Brian Mycko asked if there was a decision made on sweeping streets, with paving coming up, and Little River and Woodcrest being brand new. Chairperson Scalley suggested that they would sweep the newer roads that are not going to get paved, but they have not made a final decision on when the grinding/paving is going to happen. The Board agreed that now that it has been determined Central is going to do the paving, it can be discussed with Greg Hogan to schedule so it coincides with grinding. Noting the sweeper does not normally come up until the middle of May normally.

The next Select Board meeting will be May 3rd, 2022 at 5:00 p.m.

At 6:22 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 Gauthier and polled; Mills-AYE, Gauthier-AYE, Scalley-AYE.

At 7:15 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; Mills-AYE, Gauthier-AYE, Scalley-AYE. The motion passed unanimously.

Chairperson Scalley made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Selectperson Mills seconded. Mills-AYE, Gauthier-AYE, Scalley-AYE; and the motion passed unanimously. Chairperson Scalley declared the meeting ended at 7:15 p.m.

Attachments to 4/19/2022 Minutes:

Gauthier Resignation Letter as of 5/9/22

Route 3 North Parking Pictures