Meeting's open board meeting May 18th at 6 p.m. Please stand for the pledge of allegiance. >> Go ahead of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One
nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Thank you. >> So, we're going to change around the agenda just a little bit. We have folks that need to move and there's folks
visiting. So, um we will begin the meeting with the launch um and the budget review and it's recorded. >> Okay. And the meeting is being anybody's
joining >> first. >> So where is >> it was on the other side. Perfect. >> All right. So going down to okay and then we'll go back up to the rest of the agenda. So review the annual town meeting warrant and budget.
>> Okay. So what's in this package is prior to your bills. We'll need to take a quick look at that. I think most of these I've seen >> before we even put them on the war. >> Okay. Um so how do we proceed in reviewing the war? Do we go line by line
or we >> Yeah. um we've gone over the warrant the articles um >> if you would like to discuss anything amongst yourselves if you guys have about any of the articles there's nothing on there
>> that's new or shocking >> um I will say that we had discussions about the fire department and volunteer and the money for that and um we are looking into setting something up that
is enforceable Um and enforceable is the wrong word. It's that works for what we we have. We have a volunteer fire uh department and so a system needs to be established and put in place before we can fund it. This is coming from legal. Um it is not
falling off our radar. >> So we went back to zero. >> We went back to zero until a plan is in place. Um and legal also made the comment I well it was on there last year. >> Yeah. and um they were not aware that there was like it wasn't set up and we didn't have
>> wasn't understood. >> Yeah. So that's why it was on last year. Um it's not fallen off the radar. It's just fallen off this particular warrant because we haven't been presented with a way to disperse this or how we're going to go about it or >> so I don't want anybody to think that
volunteer firefighters are not a priority or that we don't appreciate them or that we're not putting a program together. It's just >> Do we have any idea when this the next town meeting will be. >> So, there definitely will be a special town calendar meeting in the spring. Um,
there usually always is in every town. Yeah. Um, do we know when? >> Approximate, but >> no. >> A couple of months maybe after >> Yeah. Because then at least we'll have a target date to get that the firehouse thing done. >> Yeah. Right.
>> If we know what the date is kind of so we can march towards that date. So, and then the only other difference that may be seen on here would be that the conservation commission doesn't need a revolving fund. >> Um, I spoke with um Mark about this.
>> What they take in wouldn't go into a revolving account. Um, >> so >> it just goes to general fund. >> Well, they have conservation has an account. So, but they would roll over into Yeah. St.
I haven't spoken to Mr. about it now. >> Okay. I've seen this multiple times, so I don't have any questions. No, me any questions about it? >> I do not. >> So, I make a motion to approve the um warrant for annual town meeting.
>> Okay, I second that. Any questions? >> All in favor? I >> So just to audience members, I just want to let you know there was an error on the elections um portion of the packet that was handed out. They have the
corrected one. I'm gonna go around and give you each a corrected ones that you budget or what do you want to know your paper this 18th day of majesty Very good.
>> You're gonna get that back, too. >> Yeah. I'm gonna give it to you. >> Okay. I'm gonna say let's uh change this up to Stephen a little bit more. And Greg, you know, since you're visiting, you might as well come up and we'll go through your stuff first.
That way, you don't have to wait. Here I am. >> Hi. >> Huh? >> Hi. >> Did your wife tell you that she accidentally texted me I love you this morning for you? >> And then she took it back. >> She took it back. That was
>> and then she said, "No, I do love you." >> It ended well. >> We have very sweet. >> Um, so I'm here representing the fairgrounds. Um for the 30th of uh May,
uh we're going to have a uh a truck pull. Uh this is just courtesy. We try to come in >> Yeah. >> you know, a week, two weeks, three weeks before an event so everybody knows what's going on, >> right? >> Um the fairgrounds will probably be open
about 8. Uh polls are supposed to start around 11 to 3, so we'll probably be out there by 6. Okay. I would guess. Um, I don't know how many people are going to be there. I imagine over a hundred.
And we're supposed to get a a special permit or whatever for that, but usually that's waves. So, >> yes. >> So, but I figure I'd mention it. >> Okay. >> Um, and I guess that's about it. The next thing that's after that would be the fireworks on the 26th
>> and then we're going to have a concert on the 18th of July, a fundraiser for the fairgrounds. Oh, that's great. >> So, I'll be back. Okay. >> To see it before then, >> but just a So, we're it's it's getting
there. I mean, another another couple of years, we're going to try to have something at least once every month. >> That's great. >> So, little bit of activity in town. >> Your water's turned on and everything. >> Yep. Everything's on, the bathrooms are are up. >> Okay. >> Just got to catch up on the lawn mower.
>> That's about it. Great. >> We have a few projects we're going to be doing this year, but it shouldn't interfere with anything we're doing. So, we're not doing anything major major this year. >> Do you need anything from us? >> Um, no, not I don't think so. I think we're in pretty good shape. Um,
we should be all set. >> Exciting. Thank you. Thanks. >> So, do we need a motion to wave the special permit? >> Special permit. It is >> a gathering for over 100. >> You have to have a special permit for that. granting authority. Yeah. >> And so we typically wave it for the
fair. Yes. I will make a motion to wave um the special permit for second. >> The Union Agricultural Society. >> Okay. I second that. Any questions? No. >> All I Thanks, Greg. >> Okay. Let's go back.
Um >> examination of the minutes. Did you read the minutes? >> Yes. >> Okay. Um >> that was the 16th, right? >> Yes. >> So motion to approve uh select board minutes from the 16th, both regular and the executive session as written.
>> Yep. I second that. Any questions? All in favor? I >> I next is a motion to approve warrant number 23 for accounts payable, accounts payable wired and payroll.
>> A second. >> Those are the ones we signed already. Yeah. Yeah. Okay. Payroll. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Sorry. >> I second it.
>> Any questions? Follow. >> Okay. >> We have several points. Yeah. You want to do it? >> Sure. >> Motion to appoint Douglas Emo, Inspector Veterans Graves for the term July 1st, 2026 through June 30th, 2031. It's a while.
>> You want to just go to each one? >> I'm uh >> Or you want to do each one? >> You'll have to do the second one because it's me Ferta, which I'm assuming you don't want the usually the Okay. So, I second that. Okay. Um motion to appoint Adam Dolby. So
you're gonna have this. >> Yep. Motion to approve Carolinder to the FRTA advisory board for the term July 1st, 2026 through June 30th, 2027. What is FRTA, please? >> It's Franklin Regional Transit Authority.
>> What's the really it? They provide rides for people who may need them in town. >> Oh, okay. Gotcha. Okay. I'll second. >> Any questions? All in favor? >> I. Motion to appoint Adam to position of
Forest Form July 1st, 2026 through June 30th, 2027. >> I second that. Any questions? All in favor? >> I. >> Motion to appoint Joan Oclair to the historical commission for the term July
1st, 2026 through June 30th, 2029. >> I second. Any questions? Can I ask a question? What's a forest w forest warden? They have a tree warden. >> It has a question. >> Yeah, I don't know exactly, but it has
to it's him as the fire chief. >> Yeah. >> Do you know Mary? >> Is that looking it up because I think the tree warden is the forester >> or forest warden. But let me let me finish looking. Obviously, it's happened
in the past, so there must be some difference. >> Yeah, >> because this isn't new. >> Anything new, right? >> Nope. >> It's always been the fire chief, but we just have to make it official. >> Okay. >> We want to go ahead and approve it and check it out. You want to
>> I'm sure it's good. If there's any issue, I will let you know. >> We already did. motion to appoint Nathan Mayor to the confirmation commission for the term July 1st, 2026 through July 30th, 2017. >> I second that. Any questions?
>> All in favor? >> I motion to appoint Judith McKinnon to the American Disabilities Act for the term July 1st, 2026 through June 30th, 2027. >> I second. Any questions? >> No. >> All in favor? >> I >> I. Motion to appoint Patrick Lombardo to
Council on Aging for the term July 1st, 2026 through June 30th, 2029. >> I second that. All in favor? >> Any questions? All >> I guess, you know, I mean, that's a such a valid point. There might be some things in here that have just been going
on forever and we haven't ever gotten reviewed it, >> which could be in the bylaws. >> Look, I'm sure it's not an issue. I just it was just a question, but I will uh I'll look into it up. and the audience ask a question >> uh at the
>> the chair may recognize uh the chair recognizes >> just a question to the TA or or the board of merit can you actually not approve the special permit as opposed to way payment for the special permit for the
fair isn't a special permit required under bylaws or whatever >> special license >> special license um should you wave of payment. You can't wave the permit switch. >> That's a question. The question is should you approve the
>> I thought that they had approved the event and the allowing of the event but waving the fee. Is that was that the intent? >> Right. >> Okay. So if if the minutes reflected in your asset because what you said was you wave >> wave the fee. Yeah. Good point.
>> So just so do I have to fill out a permit? The board is giving you approval for your event. >> Okay. So, we're defer >> recorded in the meeting minutes. >> Thank you.
>> Okay. >> We got Mars. >> Sorry. >> The other end. >> Do I need you? If you would like, >> please join us. It's actually not for the fire
department. This is in regards to Hilltown Ambulance. >> Okay. So, >> no worries. You'll just dock your pay. >> Um, so actually Ry was supposed to be my wingman on this, but he is obviously not
here, so I'm going to go on my own. Um, as you all know, the Hilltown Ambulance has acquired their trailer, which they will soon be setting in place for the theatics and such to reside in while
they are on shift. Um, what they already have the trailer all taken care of. It's kind of sitting and waiting for delivery. In order to set the trailer, a pad needs to be put in place. Mhm. >> Uh my suggestion at the last meeting was
that we use millings. >> Um it would be a easy enough thing. Um I have all the size and everything. So my thought was is that I was going to ask I've already spoken to Ry >> and he was the one that brought me to coming here to talk to you guys to get
the approval of. Um they have the millings there. So the trailer itself is 10 by 60 ft. The pad size that we would be looking for is 14x 65x 6 in deep. Um it's about 20 yards of material. So
either one triacle or two dump truck loads >> in order to just make the pad to set the trailer. They are looking down the road to redo their whole area, but in order to get things going for them, they need they need the pad to set the trailer.
So, like I made the suggestion to Rey is that possibly the town could donate the two loads of millings in order to get the ball rolling for them. >> So, that's what I am here for today is to ask your permission approval to in
fact have the town of Blandford donate the two dump truck loads of millings to the Hilltown Community Ambulance in order to make the pad for their trailer. >> And Ray said he doesn't need them or anything else. No, he said he was totally fine with it. Um, it's just I
had to go through you guys to make it official or or what have you. Um, >> just did he say how much it costs or anything? What he's, you know, if he were to actually charge you for it? >> The material is different than than than
the trucking or the delivery. Um, sometimes like if you go through a company and they'll it's all in, they charge you a set price. But millings, if he has them sitting there, I mean, he did ask for a milling machine, did he not? >> I thought so. >> And if we have millings and we don't need them, we don't need a milling
machine. >> I'm not sure if I remember the milling machine. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. Did I Okay. >> Millings are left over when they grind up. >> Millings are used for fill for for different things. You can put um a layer over top of the millings to make it more
like asphalt. Um my job when they grind up the road when they it's basically yeah reused it's just black top that's been all ground up. >> Um and it's fine with me. I just don't want to make sure. Is there a legal procedure for donation? >> I don't know if there's a threshold. I
don't know how much a trial road of millings costs off the top of my head. >> Um >> we can get a I can ask a rate for a price and then just um >> I'll file up with um the legality of it. But >> are they deliver he's delivering it to you? Like loading it and delivering it
>> hopefully. >> When are you looking to do those stuff? >> As soon as possible. >> Basically, right now they're sitting on the trailer. >> So, it's a question of getting this down so then they can have delivery and actually get the ball rolling of
>> making it happen for them. >> Can I ask who's um doing the excavating of this? I know it's only six inches, but it's got to be obviously leveled and everything. I do not know. Um I'm not in charge of appointing their different people. I know when we last had the
meeting that Bailey said he knew someone local that hadn't >> sure if it was highway that was >> No no no we are only as far as this is concerned. We are just looking for the millings themselves and the delivery thereof. Just put them in a pile in the parking lot and whoever is going to do
the work is going to do the work. It's we're not asking for that. We're just asking for the >> stuff to be delivered, >> the product itself. >> Um, where where delivered? Where? I'm sorry. I don't know where >> to town ambulance. Uh, in Huntington. >> Huntington. Okay. >> All right. I sent my message. Um, a
motion to approve um >> the Millings. >> The Millings. The two yards of Millings donation to Hilltown >> 20. Sorry. >> No, that's okay. >> I had 20 yard two dump trucks. >> Two dump trucks. Right. Um, so county
influence. I second that. Any questions? All in favor? >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Thank you, >> Marty. Um, last lunchon we had a young
gentleman come down from the Hilltown Community Development who runs the CISA program, which is the vegetables for the seniors and things. >> Okay. >> Um, it's been a program in flux for the last couple of years, >> but um, they want to get back to being
able to deliver. Um he was asking if Blford would be a delivery site for Blaford seniors. Um they would package up, you know, whoever place the orders, they would package it up, they would label it and drop it off at the town
hall probably on Wednesdays. Um he said nobody needs to be here as long as the doors are open. Um, they have a refrigeration unit if we need it, but I don't think we need that. Um, so
my suggestion too, and I've brought it up to Joanne, was that if we had some seniors that were going to order these products, produce rather, um, but they didn't have a means of getting there, we
would use a COA vehicle to deliver. Um because we do that not for the brown bags. >> Yeah. >> You know, and um so I just um we have to wait to see they're going to advertise the program to see how much feedback he gets.
>> So they have to order in advance. >> Yeah, they have to order in advance. Um >> they know how to sign up. Like everybody in town knows how they >> Yeah, he's um they're going to do all the advertising and everything. Um that's what they've done in the past. If they had to deliver it to the individual
homes, they would add on a $5 fee. Oh. >> So, if we could just have it delivered here and if we need to deliver any of it, >> we'll do it with the COA vehicle. >> So, it's not So, in other words, it'll get either they're going to pick it up right away or you're going to deliver it
right away. So, it's not >> right. It's not going to be sitting around and and it's going to be emphasized that if you are ordering this, you need to get it that day. >> Yeah. I did tell them the town hall locks after seven. So >> we don't want mice or anything.
>> Well, no. Exactly. >> Right. >> Yeah. >> Sounds really good. >> Do we need a motion? I guess uh >> to approve that. >> Sure. >> Yeah. >> Motion to approve the Hilltown CISA um program delivering vegetables to Blford
Town Hall. >> Any questions? >> I second it. >> All in favor? Good. You're good. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. I think uh Nicole, we're skipping Nicole
because I told her she didn't need >> I'll just put table. Yeah, >> I would just take it off because I had a discussion with her. She does not need the need to come forward. >> Okay, that's right. I'll table it for today. >> Yep. Uh plan board update. Edna, is Edna
here? >> Right. Okay. >> Okay. >> And this is the other. >> So, uh, we had a hearing last Friday
>> on the bylaw says there now. So, we voted to move forward to the hearing and after the hearing, we will give you a letter of our vote at the hearing. And >> yes. So,
>> so we're good. >> Our job is to approve the uh Right. >> We're good for the board. >> Yeah. We already approved. Yeah. Right. >> So, you don't need us to approve anything. >> And we don't need to Right. We don't have to vote on anything. >> Okay. >> Yeah. >> Yeah.
>> You signed it. >> Yeah. That's >> So, we're good to go. >> Okay. >> Good to go. I mean, there you know, let's just say there may be little tweaks between now and the 29th, >> which we're allowed to do if we need to, but It is pretty much there now.
>> Yep. So, there was some question. I even had a question. I wasn't 100% sure. Just so that everybody's on the same page. It is allowed to be on the warrant even though they haven't or they did have their meeting, but it was allowed to be on the warrant because up until annual
town meeting as long as every draft is provided and made available to the public up until annual town meeting, it can remain on the warrant. Any changes that made are made prior to that must be reflected
obviously >> and available to the public. >> Yes. >> Yep. And then so that so that's why it was okay to be still included on the war. >> Okay. >> Yeah. I have some other distributed things to the overlay map here, but they're being distributed now and
they'll go on the website. So >> perfect. >> Yeah. >> Trying to keep everything up. >> Thank you. >> Thank you for all your work. really and >> yes don't leave us >> right don't leave us is right
>> is Ray supposed to come or >> he said he wasn't coming oh he's not coming >> he said he wasn't coming >> okay >> Christina hello >> is Edna also a table >> no that was Greg >> I'm sorry
>> was here instead of >> that was all >> so we approved moved annual town meeting more. >> Yay. >> Yay. >> Um, >> nice job on doing that, by the way. That was a lot of work effort. That was could not have been done any other way.
Everybody helped and thank you to everybody. Um, attached to you guys will find the budget that's we'll be voting on as well. Um, Kelly, our town accountant, has joined us. Thank you for being here,
Kelly. Um, again, we've gone over the budget um finance committee. Uh, Sarah, you're Sarah, >> are you the loan? >> I am the loan person. >> Okay. Um, so I mean, we're not going
over it in great detail. Obviously, it's the um the overview of the budget that is available if anybody wants a copy of it. It's on the table right up here. Um, if anybody had any questions, I'd be happy to try and field them for
you when Kelly here. Um, or any questions about the orange for me. >> We're going to go through it again right before the meeting, right? We already went through it once. >> Yep. I just needed it signed and approved so that we can get it posted.
>> Yeah. >> In time. Um, so these are all available will be available uh once I scan it, send it to Wendy. She'll put it online and the constable
is posting them today. >> Uh, what else do we have? I we are working on setting up our audit for FY26 with Roselli and Clark. Uh
Sarah and Kelly. Kelly, are you there? >> Okay. Uh so it looks like the only day Sarah can't do is Tuesday the 26. Um but
Kelly, so it's May 26. Tony wants to start the audit. Um he's already done most of it. Um I've been working with him for probably two months now on getting him everything. They've got everything they need. They just have to always do some work on
site. So that's the date he'll be there. >> Oh, I see. I see. Okay. I thought he was starting it on the Okay. >> No, no, no. We're we're I mean, yeah, we're down to just the minor things that need to be finished that he needs to do some onsite work. I couldn't get to him.
>> All right, perfect. That works. Thank you, Kelly. Um, >> it's the 25 audit. >> Oh, the fiscal. >> It's the fiscal >> because we're still in 26. I know it's
always 25. Yes. Thank you. >> Um, that's really mostly what I've been working on really, just the warrants and the budget. >> Yeah. Right. >> And that's it. Right. >> Jackie and I have been talking with a
company. I mean, we're looking to do the gazebo. What we can do with the gazebo, right? >> Um, >> they What else did they give? Oh, >> the >> We're waiting for the gazebo. >> Yeah, they right
>> the post office chimney. >> Yes. And >> here the roof repair. Um, >> and we're waiting for a quote on the back part of the building where the water's coming in. >> Yes. >> So, they said within another week or so,
but it's been a little bit already. >> Okay. >> Yeah. >> We can't do anything until after the boat anyway. So, >> but this company um I do feel confident with because they are on state contract. So they're vetted by the state in the lowest price and we can always negotiate a lower price, but this avoids us having
to go out to bid because they're state contracts. So for these in the interim until we have a maintenance program in town for town own properties, um I think it's important that we focus on maintaining what we
have as opposed to waiting for things to go disastrously wrong and then having to spend a ton of money. Um, it did go up on the roof already and there's a hole up there. So, yeah, I found where the leak was. >> Yeah,
the chair recognized. >> Thank you. Just backing up for the budget. I see that the assessor's work salary is still at a 98% increase. >> We we um budgeted for the position, not
for person. So although Michaela no longer can work three days a week, the position we budget for the position not. >> So we've budgeted. So what is the actual salary to be? >> Um
>> whatever two days is out of that. >> So I can get you that number, Mary. I don't have it in front of me right now. I can get it for you, but it's budgeted for three days. Although Michaela works two right now. So you're looking for the hourly rate
>> just so that it makes sense. Sure. >> Can you see that 98% increase? Uh >> so it looks like a 98% increase >> but it's not. >> But it's not because this was this change was made midyear by identifying funds from other line items within the
assessors in order to fund the extra hours needed. Um now Michaela has become quite concession at it and has caught up. Um but again we want you don't want to get in a habit of
budgeting for a person's personnel the role preference or availability versus the role and we know that the role could require addition. Thank you. You're welcome. >> Thank you.
Good. You got anything else? >> Anything? Um, >> no. Just thank you to everybody's patience with me while I work through some things, but anything that anybody needs, don't hesitate to reach out. I'm here.
Um, FPSC update at this point, you know, obviously the solar and u the bylaws are done, the map is done. um we'll again do little tweaks here and there, but after the vote then that will go to the AG
um if it's approved. The uh other things that are going on is I'll be writing a letter to the senator of ways and means to talk about the pressures that the towns are under. That's the gentleman that we saw at the meeting. um he seemed to be interested in hearing
the expenses that are incurred at these small rural towns whenever you have to deal with these energy projects. >> So I've already started a letter to him. So we'll turn something around on that. I'll bring that in before we send it. >> We should share that with the towns that
we met with that are also and then encourage them to >> Oak or Beckett or Yeah. Um we're going to talk at the next meeting about fees. Fees that are charged by planning or uh during the whole permitting process and
just look I've started some review and analysis of what's happening in other towns what other towns are charging for fees. It triggered looking at the fees because when the state put their fee structure out it was kind of astounding as to how much
they're going to be charging. um when they start doing the larger solar programs or vest programs. So, we just wanted to take a look at it to make sure that from on these commercial programs that we're charging fees for what we do. The state tries to charge enough to pay
for the manpower that's working on the project. So, as an example, um our planning team doesn't really have administrative support. They do their own administrative support. Yeah. at the state level, they would charge for that.
We don't charge for any of that stuff. So, it's a it's so, you know, it's good to look at it and make sure that we're covered so we don't burn out our boards. >> Yeah. >> Um the other thing, the last thing that the
EPS team will look at is we're going to review the process for when applications come through the door. Um it's been a you know as all of them have been talking at the table um I mean obviously I don't get involved with this but they do each one of the
chairs and these applications can come in anywhere and it may be that planning doesn't get it for three or four days after it came through the door. >> Yeah. Um and so there is a lack of
let's say uh there's a lack of process around when that application comes through alerts need to go out no matter where it lands. >> I think that the application shouldn't be considered as received until it is stamped as received by
>> doesn't the state have >> there's other reg clerk is the one that has to stamp it. Once the town clerk stamps it, the time starts. Now, it could be an incomplete app, >> right? >> So, you know, they may send it and the mail gets stamped and it's incomplete.
Um, but there is definitely challenges with it. Everybody in the room said there was a problem. >> So, there's not a fixed place that the permits come in. They're coming fit and fourths, >> right? >> Coming into groups, >> but with what the EPSC had done, you're outlining,
hey, this is your first stop. This is your second stop. We don't have that now. So people come, they look at our if if a vendor wants to do something here, they're looking at what they hoops they have to jump through on our like our website, how it's set up, and they're not seeing like this is where you go first, this is where you go. So they
just go wherever they want. >> Yeah. >> And board of health gets left out, fire department gets left out, building gets left out, zoning, things like that. >> Right. And once and I mean it was a learning experience for me too and Greg's here. You know, we talked about
they have from the point that app comes in, they have 65 days in which to have their first hearing. So, everything has fewer toear in that 65 day period every every month. >> Um, and that's tough on some of these
larger energy projects. Um, so that's something we're going to be looking at to say how are we going to manage this better uh to make sure people are made aware that >> the permits come in digitally or
>> I don't think so. Greg, do the permits come in digitally or do they come in via mail >> or that the application? I'm sorry. >> They have to come in >> in person. >> In person, yes. But it's it is problematic where
clock is starting. >> Yeah. >> And I get a little nervous about with the legal power that some of these energy people have. >> Yeah. >> If it's signed as received here and it's incomplete then it possibly gets.
>> Yeah. Right. Chair recognizes Mary. >> Thank you. Who determines whether it's a complete application or not? Planning. Planning. >> Right. Greg. >> Yes. >> So that is those two things fees and
that and I said that the FPS team would remain in place till the end of June. So let's hope that we'll get all that done by the end of June. Now, we will may have to come back together if the AG gets the which they will once they get
the U bylaws and the AG says you got to get rid of this or that you can't say that or whatever. Those will have to be revised when we get that information. Um I will be taking there is in the bylaws
there are charts in there uh that lay out the power of the systems. Um one thing that we did call out when we got together this last time was to call out that residential is kind of sits outside of a lot of this because they don't need
a special permit. They only need a building permit. Um, but I'm going to check with the DOER to make sure that we have our choice exactly the way the state has it laid out because we don't want different power levels that we're
going to review versus they're going to review or we'll be following along with each other. We need to make sure that we're aligned with the state. So, I'm just going to do one more check on that. >> Um, >> I think Greg's strong. >> No, I I just want to make a comment on
on the mission. I talked to Jason the building inspector. >> Yeah. >> About the best that goes along with President that's all covered at building codes. He doesn't sign off on everything until everything code electrically with the
fire department and and everything. So that's all covered under small that go along with the >> okay >> the solar residential solar. Um the one thing that I do want to say at this
meeting about this from the EPSC team is you know we are in real need of more planning people. >> Yeah it's a real problem. If the team gets any smaller and someone comes in here with an application and we don't
have a planning board, the next step is they go to the state and if we want to keep it here, we need more planning people that are really interest. This is very, you know, I mean, from reading the bylaws, I was like, wow, this is a the planning board's role is really
>> what is our limits of planning board numbers? We know. >> We do know. >> Seven. Five. >> I believe it's seven. >> How many do we have right now? >> Five. So, and then an alternate, right? >> We have We have no alternates. >> So, we But we have room for two more
alternate. >> Please let me double check and make sure I'm saying that correctly. >> So, we need to get the word out there. >> Yes. >> Well, there's an election planning's on there twice this year for five years. >> Are people running? They're they're in
Congress. >> Yeah. So then they're not taking up any new spaces. >> So if they're not on the ballot or on the um >> Yeah. the ballot they get and we pass the election. I
think they get appointed. Is that right, Mary? for I think we can fill a space with an appointment >> until the next election >> election >> if the planning board and the board of selection >> would meet together. Yeah. So at that
point if we if someone's interested and they want to come into the select board meeting we can meet with planning board and appoint people I misspoke. It's five members elected by ballot for a five-year term but correct if there's an opening. Okay. So, like if someone were
to leave planning in the middle of the year, that allows us to fill it so that it's not only four people. >> No, they do have to ask four >> that you have to have four for a quorum of five or three. >> Four. >> That bolts.
>> I would think three makes a form. >> By Robert's rule, three makes a quorum. Unless you have a bile for >> We'll have to check it because this is concerning, right? Because if all of a sudden I mean it's kind of slow right now. >> Yeah.
>> Um but if all of a sudden you get two or three of these through the door. >> So we should probably get a an extra then the um >> y >> alter. Alternate. Thank you. Now I have talked to Beckett and they're also
looking and then there's another town that has just appi has put up a posting out there. Problem is is that it's hard to hire somebody because the hours are like you know you might not work for four days and then you might work for three weeks straight or you might work you know so it's very difficult to make
it a job unless you're sharing >> sharing. So um we're just putting the feelers out to some of the other towns as Well, I know there's some question about the involvement of PVC um >> PVPC >> PVPC, but that's what they've done for
us in the past is help us to sort of establish a shared position anyways. I mean, it doesn't have to be that we're hiring through anyone they're recommending, but they can help us establish like they set up the meetings, so we're meeting with other towns and like work through the
legalities of sharing a role. >> I mean, that's how we did the regional police. It's how we did the when we were sharing for a short time we were sharing financial positions. >> Um the operator the shared operator >> it's something we could certainly talk
to them about. I mean I talked to someone there this this year about just supporting administratively and they said we don't do that. So like they >> they don't have someone that would fill but they can help us create a shared
position. >> That they could probably too. Yes. >> So that might be worth I can follow up if you want me to. >> Yeah. >> That would be good. >> That was it for a sec, but it's getting to the tail end. So
>> who were the other towns? >> Becket was one. I don't remember who the other one was. >> All right. if you think of it later. >> Um, I did forget to mention that the fur cog fuel bids were opened this morning at 10:00 a.m. and sent out. Um, Ray did
text me and ask me if I got them. I did. So, I forwarded them to him and I asked him to again make sure that he's on that. >> I thought they checked that last time. >> They did. They told me he was on it. He said he didn't get it. So, I sent it to him. There's a deadline this week to
lock in pricing, >> right? So I said please read this in its entirety because there is a deadline this week. >> Okay. >> Right. Any questions from the residents? >> Yes.
>> I have um four bids for a repair wall. >> Oh, you do? >> Yes. >> So would you like them? >> Yeah. >> I got four. >> This is for the wall. >> Yeah, the wall hard of Okay.
those. This is for the wall in Bsentennial Park, right? 2900 or wait 27 29 3,000. >> It's 3 to five. >> Mhm.
>> 45. Yeah. 43,000. This is great. This is great. Thank you for dealing with bridge. It's like this fun least expensive and they all have the exact same sculpt sequence.
>> They will replace it with goen stone. The original blue go stone. So it doesn't. >> Okay. >> But it does need a complete tear down. >> Yeah. And this is coming out of the trust. >> Yes. >> Okay. We don't have to vote on it right now, but um we'll take a look at this
and we'll put it on the agenda and have a discussion about it. Thank you. Thank you. >> And um I wanted to bring um the meet the candidates and Is this a town sanctioned?
>> No, this is idea. >> I noticed the return envelope says town hall. >> So I was wondering what was going on with that. I was going to bring that up. Okay. >> Um I've gotten a couple of emails from residents about this because it looked
like a town sanctioned Yeah. >> meeting because it says town hall. We didn't approve using the town hall. >> So, we needed to Thank you for bringing that up. We need to talk about that. Um, >> yeah. It So, it was George's idea. He
>> came up with it and I think I guess sent letters out to everyone that's I don't know if it's everyone in all the positions or just the positions that are >> don't know. Wasn't right. >> I don't know. >> Yeah. That's all. Um, yes, Mary.
>> He he came to the town clerk's office and asked for the list of all of the candidates who are on the ballots and he gave him the nine names. >> Okay. So, it's it's all the vote on >> all the positions. >> I mean, >> so he can do that. I mean, that's we shouldn't even get involved with it, you
know, if the residents want to do stuff like that to he wanted it as a meet and greet type thing. Um, but the question is, you know, we can't just someone arbitrarily use the town hall for stuff. That's not the way it works. It's got to be approved >> and Joanne has to make sure it's
available, >> right? So, the question becomes, do we want to approve using the town hall for this? But it's not a town saying it's not the town behind. What I don't want to have happen is people think, well, we're going to do this every time. >> Town did not agree. We have nothing to
do with it. >> That's what I think. That's what the confusion is because you know they held up the town hall in the gym, >> right? >> And >> well that's what George said. He didn't come to us for approval. So I guess that's what he's assuming but
>> Yes. >> Yep. Um he went he's following a a plan designed by the League of Women Voters, >> right? that will be absolutely unbiased
>> and he's following it to the letter >> inviting the candidates and they will be given five minutes to do a presentation I understand >> and then any questions will be written that night and submitted to the candidates and it won't be a give and
take it will just be >> you will answer this question please um and that's And the candidates can decide if they want to come or not. Basically, they don't have to be there if they don't want to be there. >> Right.
>> Yes, sir. >> I'd just like to make one comment. Um, >> I was at the caucus and I know that George did stand for particular people who are being nominated. So, I kind of feel like if this is going to happen, it should be a completely impartial. Maybe someone from out of town
>> to kind of moderate it. That's the spicy stuff. >> Yeah, there there is a third party from out of town somewhere who will moderate it so that there is no bias shown in intending and in asking the questions
and I did get that information from George and all you have to do is look at the women voters model and they'll spell it all out for you. I mean, we have to >> I mean, it's I think it's fine to use
the town hall. That's what it I mean, >> I don't think I I'm going the direction of saying no. And I'll tell you why. Because I don't want people to think that this is a town. >> That's fine. So, he'll have to just >> he'll just have to come up with another place.
>> Otherwise, people are going to think that we're the ones that are doing this. We're not. >> I I think that's an overreaction. Do you have a suggestion for an alternate place? >> Um, just library can't do it at the
laundry room. >> Oh, they're close. >> They don't need a ballroom. >> No, you don't. >> Historical? I maybe I don't know. >> Can I ask a question? >> Sure. >> Do you allow other people to use the town hall? >> Yeah. I mean, that's I feel >> if you do then under what jurisdiction
are you not allowing someone else to use the town hall for this? say that it's under any jurisdiction. I gave my opinion out of an abundance of caution because as you know during elections anyway like you can't be within certain this is this is a voting polling place
right so you can't conduct certain things in a polling place I don't know I can certainly send a letter out to or a note out to legal okay >> and say is there any conflict if a resident is requesting to use the
gymnasium to host an impartial meet the candidates event >> and we would need to have TJ here because I wouldn't recuse myself. >> Excuse me. Precedence, we've done this before in the town hall. >> Oh, you have? >> We have. Absolutely. >> I just want to make sure that we do it right. That's all.
>> And and I think that's the right way to go because realistically if who collects pan wanted to use that, you couldn't turn it down, >> right? >> Because once you open it up for public, anybody can use it. And if you want to know why I know that, it's because
again, we've been for 18 years. We had those issues come up and we were always told that >> you could Yeah. >> It's good for the goose. It's good for the gator. >> So, I guess we should put that on the agenda for next. >> So, would you like me to send the note? >> Yes. >> Give me the date that you wanted on the agenda, please.
>> Uh, is there our next meeting June 1st because of the >> June 1st? >> I mean, the only thing I read about it was >> What's the date of it? this June second was that everybody needs to be equally invited, right? As long as you invite all the candidates, you're good. >> I don't think we'll time >> that we're, you know, supposed to be
invited, right? That are on the ballot. >> And the approval for the town hall and I think Gabe, your point is >> we can't approve for some. >> Yeah, >> that's fair. >> Your hands are kind of tight. >> Is not >> I think the letter was really unclear. I
was under pressure that it was just a certain amount of people coming not all election people and what was this part of I knew nothing that was part of the lead >> right >> what he's following I didn't know anything about another monitor >> you know so I mean everything was very
unclear >> and kind of I don't know >> that's why I reflection I'm not confident about isn't available. So, just don't go. >> Yeah. >> Christine, the other thing I would I
would ask if you ask council is is there a time limit before the actual election >> because you couldn't do it on the election day? >> Obviously. Correct. Yeah. >> It'll be on the June 1st agenda then. So he will have to reschedule. Do you want
to reach out to George? Do you want to read? >> Oh, I see. >> It would have been June 2nd that he was planning it. >> I'll send June second, >> right? That's when he was >> I just know it caused a lot of emails
coming around from residents saying, "What is this? Is this town sanctioned? is this do they have to attend you know etc etc so it can it caused a lot of friction okay any other questions I I may have missed it u when you were doing your
appointments um the uh inspector veterans graves is a five-year term I assumed it was a one-year term like um veterans agent or measure of bark and wood you know there are some boards that
are three or fives, but I I don't know. Maybe Mary knows about the single >> five years. >> She's saying five years. >> It is five years. >> Thank you. >> On last year's town report. That's why I wonder. >> Any other questions?
>> Just is the Mintown meeting actually at seven or is this are you including this as the Mintown meeting? Because >> for one like clarify the Minitown meeting. So >> because >> yeah I I'll clarify it for you. >> Finance committee two weeks prior to for
the annual town meeting holds a meeting run by the finance committee to go over the budget >> and you call that the >> it's historically been called the mini town meeting. I don't know why >> we did that. >> That's what it is but it's really it's a finance committee meeting. >> We had that um with I don't remember
what the date was off the top of my head. >> The finance committee did Sarah we did go over all that. So this Minitown meeting name gets me very confused. I'm not trying to be flippant at all. I want to make sure that I'm un I'm speaking
blanket correctly. So, for a long time I thought that um the select board meeting that took place at 6 before the either before the annual town meeting was the mini town meeting because in my head
>> um in my head that made sense like the Minitown meeting was happening before the big show, right? Clearly that's not the Minitown meeting. That's just the select board meeting that's taking place before the annual town meeting >> still here. >> Good claims.
>> Um, >> so with that being said, the Minitown meeting with which you are referring the finance committee has already out. >> I Mary correct me if I'm wrong. was in the bylaw of Mintown meeting or final >> at least two weeks. >> At least
>> we were at >> it's on the calendar as today. >> Historically, it's been two weeks before, right? >> So, how many people did you have at your finance committee review of the budget? Normal >> because who knew about it?
>> Whoever read the finance committee's posting of their meetings, >> right? So, again, traditionally it's two weeks before. Traditionally, it's a big thing. interest seeing people turn out, but it it wasn't anywhere other than on the calendar for today. >> Then I'm
>> I mean it was posted I think the topic was finance select board review budget for warrant >> it does that not count because it didn't say mini town meeting. >> If somebody stands up in a town meeting I'm going to say >> you >> no we were we weren't sure because we
had some questions at that meeting if that was that was >> historically. Yeah, >> you have a presentation >> in the gym >> on the budget with the whole slides and whole thing being put forth and you just approved the warrant today.
>> Did you disapprove the budget today or was that approved? >> That was approved at that meeting with the finance. I believe >> finance committee has made their suggestions to the select board based on the budget. We've gone over it with legal and accounting. >> I put it together with the warrant and
now the town gets to decide if it's okay. But I see what you're saying and I think that the big problem here is me because I don't know Minitown Meeting like what what what is viewed as Minitown meeting, right? And I think that we were also
really trying to get a finance committee together even to have a quorum to even vote on anything, do a budget or have a mini town meeting. And thankfully we did end up getting volunteers to sit on the finance committee. But you're concerned that historically people expected
rightto happen at that time. So now they're going to go to the meeting to say what happened to the finance meeting. >> And historically it was really I think Dave correct me if I'm wrong. um conceived so that the town meeting
wouldn't be what about this, what about this? So that if you had some questions, you came in, finance said, "No, no, it's not this, it's this, and then somebody would say, so it was like a like a preview to get through all the craziness that is inherent in the warrants and
everything. So that when the town meeting came, it didn't go on for seven hours with people going, "Wait a minute, what about five?" So I think that's why it was the Minitown meeting with residents there to learn so that >> I think that that was the purpose.
However, his typically we didn't get many people coming to the Minitown meeting. >> I will say that they're very >> recently. Yeah. >> Um in the last few years but I mean worst case scenario can people ask budget questions at the annual meeting? >> Oh yeah right.
>> So I mean they will do. So my recommendation >> like legally we uh we have done what we're supposed I'm just like questioning. Yes. So it's not the end of the world. >> No, >> there are pl there's time for people to ask questions on the annual town meeting. There's no need to rush through
anything. >> I would just recommend as you move forward >> for the following year that we actually post that as a finance committee review of the budget >> quote unquote. two weeks prior. Two weeks before >> it's got to be at least two weeks prior. Prior
>> understand we did it but it wasn't and it was posted as a finance review. >> Yeah. >> Meeting with the appropriate people in attendance. >> What we're saying is we did it a little earlier than the two weeks before and you're saying make sure that it's two weeks before because that's what
historically people are used to. >> So historically we would have approved the budget then we would go to the Mintown meeting because those would be two separate things. Right. >> Right. >> But like we said, it's okay. People can
ask questions at the annual town meeting. We're going to be fine. >> The people who have come to >> town meeting are not necessarily people that come and ask questions. >> Correct. They already know everything and then >> yeah,
>> as Joanne pointed out that has attendance has been dismal last few years. I just wanted to say since mini time meeting is not an official title, can we get one that's more descriptive that we can all understand? Sure. >> Maybe confusion.
>> So if it's a finance meeting, you know. >> Yeah. >> So I think you're all set this year. I just would >> Yeah. >> And that you do something different next. >> Dar, would you mind relaying that to Deb? Just an overview. Thank you. >> You'll need to unlock your iPhone first.
Ah, sounded like >> I we did talk at my >> We did. Yeah. And it was posted, but I completely understand because you know how many times I've heard Mintown meeting and I still can't I know that that's what residents are used to and if
they're not seeing it, if they're not seeing that word, they're not going to think this is the meeting, right? So, I I get it. >> Yes. Also, I'm very confused about this whole mess because it's generally it works like this and this year it did not. >> Planning had issues, finance had issues
issues everywhere. >> So, yeah, I'm not surprised. >> No one's fault. It was just a lot of Yeah. >> Doris sent out here are the upcoming things from the town clerk's office. >> Yes. >> And so, it was listed as a Mtown meeting for two weeks before.
>> Yes. >> Okay. I see >> it was it was listed for tonight. It's on the website for tonight. >> Yeah. And it also >> I think when we >> look I think when we decided to do it earlier, we just felt like we could do it earlier. There was no planning around it. It was just we were ready to do it
earlier. >> What's that? >> I also just didn't think that that was the Minitown meeting, >> right, >> at the time, I guess. >> And and again, it's not a huge legal issue at this point. It's much like you changing your your select board meetings to night other than Monday.
>> Oh, >> I've heard a lot I've heard a lot of people complain about that because they're so used to having it on Monday that when you have it on a Friday or something it's like >> Yeah. throws off. >> Well, sure. >> When do you usually go to every other >> Oh, summer schedule. Um when school gets
out. >> July. >> Yeah. >> Speaking of that, Memorial Day. >> Yeah. So, we're not meeting until June 1st unless we need to meet in between. could be Tuesday. >> Pick a day >> Tuesday following the month of that week.
>> Tuesday after Memorial Day. >> It doesn't have to be Tuesday, >> whatever that week. >> But if we're going to get it out there today's point, we need to get it out there. So >> I can do Tuesday. We have to ask TJ.
>> I mean, unless you want to skip it all together. I just don't know if there's anything. No, just just in case something comes up. I think maybe we can have it posted and ready. >> So, I have to follow up with >> any other questions for the residents.
>> Okay, it is 703. 703 meeting. >> Yes. Yes. I did get this one. >> I know. >> Yeah.