It's open. All right. Meeting is officially open at 6 o'clock. We are being recorded. Um I would make a motion to approve the meeting minutes from November 9th n sorry 17 as written. >> Second.
>> Any discussion? >> No. >> All in favor? >> I >> I um action items. There are none, but we have a request to um do the where's my favorite?
Uh to do the motion for um the establishment of the energy project sighting engagement committee um which I'm fairly certain we did, but we'll do a motion to affirm the establishment of the energy project sighting and
engagement committee. Is there a second? >> Second for disruption. >> All right. Um, any discussion? >> Yeah. Who's on it? >> This is Jackie. The committee that Jackie, there was no vote, I guess. Or there whether or not it was
>> Okay. I I wasn't sure. >> Yeah. No, this is the same one. >> Yeah. So many committees in the past. >> I got confused. >> This one has all the chairs from the different >> all groups. All right. >> All in favor? >> I >> I All right. New business. Um, we are
meeting with the water commission. if you guys want to come on down and join us. Do we want um >> I'm just looking at the order for the um Okay, that's second. >> Okay, water. Do you guys want to come on down and join us?
>> Come on down. >> I see they're very enthusiastic. >> Hey guys. >> How's everyone doing? >> Good. >> Good. Hopefully you had a good Christmas and Newton. >> Always glad that it's over though.
>> Understood. [laughter] >> All right. So, we wanted to meet and um we touch base on a bunch of things. I know I think starting you want to talk about the superintendent. >> Yeah. Um where we at with that or what are you guys thinking?
>> That's good. with Superintendent John. >> You want to handle what else? >> Well, we discussed it all just a little bit. Been kind of busy lately, but uh didn't work out last time. I don't know if we should just uh re repost.
>> Yeah. >> Now, um tell us about I know that like we know but what uh what happened last time with we offered the job, right? >> We offered it. Do you know why he declined? Is there something we should change about the posting or
>> his exact words to me when I uh talked to him on the phone? Um he thanked us very much for the offer. He appreciates that. >> He said, "But uh I unfortunately can't take the offer at this time because I would be losing money." Okay. Coming to
work for you now that my other job has offered me a better position. So >> yeah, we kind of felt that like that was coming, >> right? >> Okay. >> So >> if he wasn't offered that other job, would he have taken it anyway? Do you think
>> he may have? He was leaning he actually took an extra day or two to call me back. >> Yeah, he actually said, "Well, let me think about it for a day." And then he kind of let me know that he wanted to talk to me later on. Then when he did call me back a couple days later, he was
like, "Yeah," he was um really appreciate the offer. Thank you. He was very polite, very nice, like I said, [snorts] and uh he said, "No." He says, "I I can't can't afford to do that. I'd be losing my disappointment." >> Do you think we should post it as a part-time job like they all? Do you
think we'd get >> any more bites where people would do it kind of like on the side? Because it's really the paperwork aspect of it, right? keeping up with Brighton peers. But >> that's yeah, that's probably about 85%
at that point, >> I think, >> cuz he's like backup operator for the other operator if you can do it that way. >> Yeah, >> because we talked about making him the primary operator. Mhm. >> But my concern with that was is like you just said,
>> chasing grants, chasing paperwork, following up, and then trying to do the regular paperwork, the day-to-day paperwork with your thing. But it makes more sense to have it be as like a backup to the regular operator did that for me. >> So, you're talking about reducing hours
and keeping the pay. >> Yeah. The same. >> Yeah, we did some combinations. I don't know if you got a chance to look at that. On the >> on the >> salaries, we did some we combine a couple things to make the salary go up a
little bit. >> But you still have burning up an oper? >> Yes, we do. Yes, we do. >> He did renewing or >> No, not at this point in time. He did renew his stuff if I remember correctly because he called me and told me he was renewing his all his >> Yeah. in order.
>> Oh, okay. >> What are you thinking? Do you guys want to Do you feel okay with the part time? I mean, it's really, you know, >> Well, I want to have the primary operator. He's not he's not just doing the full-time operator. He's taking care
of the monthly reports BB and um >> and dealing with all the contractors and all that stuff. So, his his license, his name's on everything. So, your heart goes into it at that time, you know. Yeah. Part time is
with all the construction you have going up there now going there. I don't tell if I will pay. >> So we talking like 30 hours part time or >> I think you were saying that part time is not a good idea. >> I don't think I don't think it's good.
>> Okay. >> You guys have you run the the operation. >> Do you guys have any good ideas? And I'm not saying that flippantly. like is is it anything that we haven't thought of? >> Right. >> We've been kicking a bunch of stuff forever.
>> The uh the flex time is a big benefit. I know he was asking me about that. He wasn't he didn't he didn't realize that that was available at the time. Only if you know you're out working on main break all night long, you know, and your salary, >> you know, it's flex time for that,
>> right? Do you think that we need to um we're not offering enough money for the position? I know we had already gone to special need money. I think right of that >> I think we're pretty close. >> We're pretty close to where? So you're
thinking we don't have the offering. >> Okay. >> I I think we're close. >> Um >> how much are we offering? >> How much are we offering? I think it was 80. >> Yeah. for the right amount of licenses
and >> Yeah. Right. >> amount of time that they've had experience wise. >> Yeah. >> And that varied on that too. We could move a little bit one way or the other with that too. >> I definitely think we need to repost. Um
I think wasn't it if I remember right that was also you know not quite in the middle kind of on the lower side. >> It was correct >> for that job out in the market. >> Correct. you were happy. >> Okay. >> Cuz we had looked at different studies
in different uh places and along with you had done some the same thing also. >> Yeah. >> And that's where we came up where that we were kind of on the low side. But then again, we were looking at we're a smaller facility versus >> a larger facility, >> right? >> Even though the D doesn't look at it
that way. They look at it as all is the same. You know, you know, right is right, wrong is wrong. It's basically look at it. You still have some of the big problems, right? Regardless of how small it is. >> Yeah. >> Um, so do you think we should be posting it someplace else? Maybe. I mean, are
you are you feeling >> I'd like to try I'd like to give it a try. Places. >> Where did we post it last time? Remember? >> I think we posted it in the uh state uh application or what we call that. >> I don't I can tell you >> OSD was it in the OSND or something like
that or something? >> Services division. I'm not sure. I know that I posted it internally publications on our website and indeed and then you guys had said that there were some like water association that you guys belong
to that I believe Jasmine was going to have them posted in >> post in Western Mass Water >> and Maya also Maya runs a thing in the back of their uh publication
WWE because we really didn't get any bites really outside of the one. >> Did we get very many? Did we get two? >> Two or three and then one of them we had to basically just throw out period because they didn't have any of qualifications. >> Yeah. >> It was kind of like somebody threw a
shot in the dark just to see if you bite, you know. I mean, quite honestly, I'm just a little I'm a little concerned because at that rate, >> you're expecting somebody to know how to manage engineers and projects and still understand the water plant and all that stuff.
>> Yeah, that's where it gets kind of >> or full time. >> It gets complicated at that point. >> Yes, I do agree. >> Okay. >> All right. Well, I I would say let's repost and see if we can get any more bites. And if we don't, we're gonna have to look at it or get feedback from
people as to why violates. >> Yeah. Yeah. Her just to repost it now. You know, Steve's doing a good job up there right now. >> Yeah. Yeah. >> What's the average pay scale for a physician like
is that like 105 106? Um, we had discussed kind of trying to split it. >> I was see you doing part of it what you're doing now and then >> I don't know how realistic that is looking at hiring someone to do just the sort of office part of it.
>> That's where a part-time person would probably be more into play. >> Yeah, that would be >> Yeah. >> I mean, what do you guys think about that? Does that see does do you think that that's a realistic someone's out there willing to do that? I mean, >> well, you want to make sure that they have their drinking water licenses.
>> Yeah. So, maybe not, >> you know, because if Bernie retires, you need you need the primary and then that >> because we're probably going to end up with what? Somebody coming from the water treatment industry is either retired or being like a partial retirement or some place >> probably with the part-times because
they're looking just to fill in some hours. I mean, that's just a guess that I have. I could be wrong. I mean the sooner we get somebody the more all that stuff is off the earth. Right now you guys are going down with >> right peers and eggs and
>> can we post it with a wider stand of salary to I mean is that is that possible just to get more interest and then >> you could as long as you can meet the you know the higher end and we haven't budgeted for like if the higher end is
108 >> we haven't budgeted for that. But at least then we would have the problem of well we have applicants and then the problem would be we have to vote. >> I'm just wondering if it's a waste of time. >> We just have to find the funding at that
point in time. >> Yeah. What's that? >> We'd have to find the funding at that point. And being that we're enterprise account, much as I hate to say this, I would have to look at what we got coming in versus what we got going out. >> It may end up impacting water rates,
which I would Right. try not to do if I if you need to. >> But I see what you're saying. Yeah. And put this if you put the total range in there, you might get somebody that you wouldn't even want to give them the high end, but they're able.
>> Yes. >> Like we've had already. And if they're like really great, then yeah, you want to >> come up with some leads. But yeah, that's past. I mean, if that was the case, would we want to say 85 to 100? I mean, because you were saying average is
106, >> right? I have to look and see what we put in for salaries for that position, but I think we did push it up that high this year. >> Oh, really? That high? >> I think we did. I won't swear to it. We combined >> for this coming year.
>> Yeah. >> The new budget, >> right? Correct. >> Gotcha. >> I think what we did was we combined a couple things. We got rid of one and buying another one to >> try to fill that position. >> Is she on there yet? >> I'm just looking at the budget request.
Is that what I'm should be looking at? >> Yes. The most recent email I sent you. >> All should have all the attachments. >> Oh, there's different tabs. There we go. >> So, staffing level >> things.
That was the discussion, right Pete? >> I don't see. Oh, water seeper. Okay, here we go. >> Um 96. >> Okay, so we did 86. >> That's getting closer. Yeah. >> So, we could then post
we could do 80. I think you could still do 85 and and 108, >> but then once you get the people in and you can determine whether or not they're worth 108 or not, >> right? Right. And if we had to >> and that's like what another >> we had some free cash, right? >> Oh yeah. >> So that way we could have a town meeting
and maybe vote some money out of that move over into that or something. >> Yeah. >> At that point in time. >> So let's do that then. Let's post that add those few sites that you mentioned >> and then change the range >> and see what we get. >> Okay. >> Once you guys finish updating it, just
send it to me. I'll have Wendy update it on the website. >> Put it on R&D. >> Perfect. So just to be clear this time around um you would do the initial interviews. >> Okay. >> Um and then you would bring forward any candidates to us. >> Sounds good.
>> That you um think are worthy of >> Yeah. >> Okay. That sounds good. >> Sounds good. >> What other budget questions you do? you know. >> Um, the only thing, you know, I said it
the only thing I wanted to just follow up on really quick is the amendments that B state gave us. The two was that A, I think, and >> A and the uh was the other one. >> Eight. >> Was it eight? >> Right. We bet we're looking to say
whether or not you really needed to do that. >> Right. >> And if we could kind of like put that one to bed. >> I'm trying to clarify that one right now at seven 7A. [clears throat] >> Okay. because I was under the impeach and I were under the understanding that that was an optional item.
>> Emergency stops. That's >> You would know better. >> That's when Sean, >> we want to drop that one. >> It sounded like it was optional the way he explained it. >> Yeah. Well, that's kind of what it sounded like to us, too. But then now all of a sudden, he's like, >> "Oh, no, no, you got you got to do this.
I I took the other part of it out." >> Yeah. >> And I'm like, "What?" >> Yeah. Yeah. >> So then I read it again and it had nothing to do with only just the stops and I gave it to Pete. Pete read it too and he's like yeah this is no we got to No. >> Okay. But it's you know that's like the
only thing that we need to do but and then the next step is >> I asked for a copy of the contract between us right and peers because remember the 29,000 we're like what is this coming from? >> Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. and the breakup of the 22,000 that state right and Jim's been
out so you know >> so um when we get that then we have a whole story >> but also >> we haven't gotten an answer on how the contingency has been already eaten up it's just not that's another thing >> that was part of that was the this
question that her and I had to Jim about the 22,000 was it was what 45 >> 45,000 >> 45 is a contingency 22,000. So where did the rest of them go to? >> Yeah. >> You know, that was the question that you and I had posed
>> and they kind of got walked around, >> right? And they haven't commenced work. >> No. >> So they won't commence work until we kind of get this off figure out. So Jim, I'm hoping Jim will get us that stuff >> right >> this week or next week later.
But from you guys, all we really need to know is is you to figure out do you want 7A done and 8A 8, you know, so we could decide. Nope, that's interal. >> We had my opinion was that I thought we had done away with 7A because of it was optional. And I think Pete felt the same
way. Um because he had dropped the price from what 20ome down to 7,000 or something or an 18 down to$7,000 all of a sudden after we told him that. You remember that? >> Yeah. >> Cuz we're like, "Wait a minute. Why did a price change?"
>> Then the 29,000 happened. >> Yeah. >> Oh, no. That's different. >> Okay. >> And then the capital expense, the narrative, >> you want to talk about that? Just adding it for your um budget. We had we got your
capital expense page. Um, but we need a narrative for each um particular go back and there was something on there that Jasmine wasn't too sure about and
I know I know Christine was busy and I went up and I asked her just put it in there and we'll deal with it when we get to the finance committee because Japan wasn't sure that it should be in there or it shouldn't be. >> Okay. So, >> was that the 50K the
>> I think I forget what it was, but it was something to do with something. >> Well, we could talk about that. I mean, it's not expected that everything's >> Yes. >> Okay. >> Um, the only other thing that's come up for um folks have asking and we talked about this briefly and I really don't
know what that total answer is is that folks want to get to where we're reading meters for them, >> right? >> What's the deal on that? like where are we? What what do we need to do? >> Well, we were making pretty good headway until the point of changing softwares.
We changed softwares. Then we kind of run into a >> change. >> Yeah. We ran into a brick wall for a little while because >> Vadar wasn't friendly with am I saying that right? >> Census. Yeah. So, we had to go through a
different program to get from Census to Vadar. Am I saying this right? >> Sorry. >> Because Jasmine was like really upset because it wouldn't go straight into Vadar, you know. >> Yeah. >> Um, so that's been causing us something, >> right? Soft break, right?
>> Soft break is the one that went work. Yes. >> Soft didn't work. And then then we moved to Vadar. >> Correct. >> And Vadar was supposed to work. >> It was supposed to. Yes. We were all excited because they said, "Oh, yeah. It'll work right. It'll go right in. It'll go right together." We were all
excited. So then Jasmine goes, "No, it doesn't." >> Okay. >> What do you mean, "No, it doesn't." No, it doesn't. >> We have to go roundabout way to get to there. >> I'm happy to go through it. >> Yeah. I think it it uh she had some problems getting
everybody to talk to each other because that other the >> census company wasn't talking to Vadar at the time and >> she was having problems with that. >> Um but once we get that sorted out once we get going with that uh we have been
reading a lot of meters doing you know preliminary readings so we know where everything is at >> and what's working and what isn't working. But there been a lot that have been changed. A lot of music readers that have been changed. >> Okay. >> And it's just a matter of getting them uploaded into the new system now.
>> And this new system with Vadar, we'll give Vadar that is that Vadar has been very good with uh all of our outstand balances percentages and interest rates and everything like that for the water. Uh
Badar has been very good with that. Once we get it to read since this is setting it, it keeps track of very very well. That's very nice job. I like the accounting part of that very lot better.
Plus, it's much easier to read. I think Jackie seen a couple of readouts a couple times. She was just amazed at how well that it tracks past past uh readouts. >> Nice. Good. help. What? Think Jasmine needs help?
>> Well, right now probably because she's out sick right now. [clears throat] >> No, I meant with this. >> Um, I will have to ask her if we can reach out to >> definitely do that. There was a lot of lawsuits in this with other with other
water departments with EJP. >> Really? >> Yeah. With the meters and stuff. >> Yeah, that that was a big issue with meters. What a whole pallet readers. Yeah, >> the readers. A whole pallet that was
check >> themselves. They were bad. >> Not the readers. >> But the readers the readers. The read. >> Some houses are on their third one. >> Wasn't there an issue with them at the beginning with the batteries? >> Yes. >> They're supposed to be They're supposed to take a reading like once every 10
minutes. They were taking a reading once every 10 seconds. So the batteries within six months. >> Okay. So, we got a second batch in, changed them to get the same result. Now, we're on a third batch. >> I mean, they they warranted the readers themselves, but they warranted the the
man hours of actually doing a work. >> Sure. Okay. They were not paying us. >> Yeah. That and just just the inconvenience of going into the resident's homes who thought they were all >> they get annoyed. >> They get very
Yes. be in my house for 20 years. Is that where is >> But no, we we actually can read what 70% or 80% right here in the parking lot. >> I think we're up to about 70%. >> Yeah.
>> So, we are making that we're making progress. I don't know. I'd love to be able to give you a timeline when we're going to start going. Um, I think I'd be jumping the gun if I didn't make make sure the radar senses. >> Are you get are have you thought about
the roll out of all this and you know be a shock to some people? Uh we have we we've we've actually we've actually discussed this with a few residents um water usage about some residents who are
getting a flat rate bill that later on once they start reading them their their bill is going to drop tremendously and then there are other residents who are getting a flat rate bill that theirs is going to jump tremendously. So, we've actually mentioned to a few
customers that maybe they need to start paying attention to what they're using for and how much usage they are, you know, because eventually it's on the start and
>> you might want to see that reminder. Yeah. Couple months or putting something in the bill. there. >> Um other other side of things um they just sold wretches to the fire
department. >> Yes. >> Purchasing hydro wrenches for >> fire department didn't really have anything that was very good. So we donated a bunch of just >> right. >> Um Stephen also as you all know we had
had some problems up at the pump house for a little while different things. So Stephen has been very diligent with working or uh fixing his problems. I think he's done very very well so far. We fixed the overflow issue.
>> The pressure relief we val about 5,000 lbs a day. >> So we fixed that. That's one pump >> has been replaced or repaired. And tomorrow we're going to be swapping out the other one. So we'll have two pumps
again. >> [clears throat] >> So all good shape there. >> Yeah. And then uh and we're finally in compliance for the disinfection byproducts. We passed the last quarters and now we're our running average is
actually in compliance for first time long. I can't tell you. >> Excellent. I applaud Steve and Bernie and those guys for hopefully the changes you've made are working.
>> So do you have a do you have a specific idea or thought of you guys want to be live? So it kind of like marched to that date support you know guys that date. What was what was the date originally? I
think >> the date originally was this year, right? >> February of 205. >> Yeah. Originally, that was the original. >> Well, you had brought up the um >> remember when we were talking, we said there's a there's got to be some kind of penalty for them not getting it done,
right? >> I went back and read it. It was supposed to be done in 574 days. It's 800 some days. >> Wow. So >> we need to have a discussion that >> we need to have that discussion. >> Yeah. Especially since you're trying to charge interest, which I'm finding out
you're not supposed to charge municipalities. >> That is that is correct. >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> Yeah. >> All right. Well, I'll keep helping where I can. Okay. But you know um as soon as Jim gets all that information out the
one contract I can't find is the one Christina's looked Jasmine's looked is the one between us and uh Pierce. >> I actually might have that >> for the bill. >> Yes. >> I might actually have a copy of that.
That was back whenever we were Chester >> the Chester Bford thing. And I remember >> I have some files that I have. >> So I'll check and see. >> Yeah. >> Before they go, this is the contract for the amendment to the grant that you guys
got for the 350,000. So like a portion of what was going to go towards the >> Oh, did they do the amendment on that? >> This is the standard contract form. So I they included with it like a payown and
dates and stuff. They're asking for my signature. I can't sign this to know what your draw down schedule is or like what I'll sign the contract as long as the select board wants me to sign it. But I don't know what I'm looking at here. I mean it's telling me like it's got dates
blacked out here. So it says fiscal year 27 or fiscal fiscal year 26 quarter three original contract amount 40,000 revised amount 92,000. None of this I I don't know where this money is going or what
you guys what your plan is. >> Okay. >> So you were copied on this when the state had sent it. It is asking for my signature on it. If you guys want to >> I didn't know that you guys were like her to sign it, but you >> I don't want to sign it.
>> That's from the state. That's not from a vendor. >> Yeah, but they can actually change that when the uh their skew their I don't want to hold you guys up. It's a state contract, so I don't mind signing it as long. >> Okay.
>> From one bucket, putting it in another, right? If I remember, right, I just don't it's a reassignment of grant funding. So, initially it was 350,000 and now they're taking a portion of that putting it towards one of the other projects that you guys needed. >> Yes. >> You remember how much money it was or
>> I think the breakdown is in there. >> Breakdown should be there for the design engineering bidding of the water storage tank and replacing booster pump for the construction of water replacement. And this letter request
that the 125 for water main structure be reallocated to 50,000 for the design and possible construction of the raw water strainer short-term goal number six and 75,000 for the design. I guess where I'm at that I don't know
what the number is supposed to be >> right that sounds >> Mike McManis out filled out part of this Mike is the gentleman he usually >> so um and he's he's usually really good >> yes he's very good
>> yeah and he gets back to you very well too >> that's fine do you want us a motion >> uh yes >> okay so can I just what do you want >> just make a motion to sign the contract amendment There you go. So, uh motion to have the uh administrator sign the contract amendment um for water
department and is it >> uh it's fast. Is there a second? >> Second. >> Any discussion? No. All in favor? >> I. >> Thank you. >> All right. Do you guys have anything else for us?
>> One one thing about Ray Pierce is they're not they're not scared to get all their engineering done. way before we do it. You know what I mean? It's like we keep getting all our engineering work done and we don't have any construction going on. You know, it's the way those guys work.
>> Yeah, that's a problem. >> Yeah, >> that's why we want to look at the contract because if they uh that contract I don't think is a fixed fee contract because they wanted to charge us that extra 29,000. So, they shouldn't be billing us
anything. Well, that's why I asked if you could send that to uh Mark or somebody to have take a quick look at just to make sure. >> I don't have that cont. >> Yeah. >> Okay. I I will look through that and see if I
>> don't I asked Jim. >> Okay. >> I don't think there's anything else I can think of. >> No. Did you get everything you needed for your budget from counting in from treasury and all that? >> Finally, they did come through for Jasmine.
>> Okay, good. >> Was very happy to put me in a bit rushed. >> She didn't get it to last, >> but yes. >> Cool. Good. >> Thank you guys. Thanks.
>> All right. You've got uh finance appointment committee. So that brings Dave on up and Doris and Alison. >> Alison, do you have a seat? Anyone over here?
[laughter] >> All right. Um, so we received your application and your resume. Um, applying to volunteer on the finance needed and we are down to two people definitely fill those seats.
Um, I myself questions and then I did not um, do you want to tell us about what interests you with joining the finance committee? Well, uh, most importantly, I just I think it's really
important to support the community and I've heard um from several people that um they needed another member. So, that's my Have you served on any other committees in other towns that you've been on or
>> No, no. Your first one, >> right? Do you guys have any questions while I try to pull mine off? >> Really question. Um, do you ever done any kind of did you ever happen to have a budget at at work or anything like
that that you managed yourself? Um well I have my associates degree in retail management. So mentioning that and I ran the school store um when I was a teacher
in um Chickpe at the school. Um so uh we would you know buy materials that kids would want and >> sell them. So that's not really that much better.
>> Question. >> I'm going to ask you the same question I asked everybody that is what do you think the role of the finance committee is like? >> Um say the last part of that again. >> What do you think the role of the finance committee is in life? Um, I
think to figure out if uh we have enough money for what the needs of the town are and where we should allocate it. Is that close? [laughter] >> Is she close?
>> Very close. >> Yeah. I I think the problem is people misunderstand how all these pieces fit together. So the finance committee takes all the budgets from departments, looks at them and says is this reasonable amount of money to run a department on
uh within the confines of what we can afford based on tax limits. Lampford is pretty lucky recently our tax levy limits are are much higher than the money spending. Unfortunately
no one makes recommendations. So they can make any recommendations they want based upon what they've talked but at the town meeting when the actual decision is made and so when that's done the finance committee I mean you do have a role taking money out of stabilization
and things like that so very important committee but then it comes to the fact that the finance committee makes a recommendation at time meeting the select board makes a recommendation on time meeting time meeting votes whatever they uh usually what finance committee
recommends but not always. Um and then that amount of money has to be raised. The assessors get to do the fun job determining how people going to how much people are going to pay for that. And that's been a huge issue today because
tax bills went out in a timely fashion. U but people forget that finance community make recommendations. It's like we're making recommendations, but the town actually votes the amount of money to spend. And that leaves the rest of us kind of stuck because we don't
have a choice what we're going to raise and appropriate. Town meeting has done that. So you could say we only need to spend a million dollars and the county comes up says no, we need to spend a million one and when it's all said and done, we have to raise a million one. [clears throat]
>> Right? >> And and that's always an interesting process. I'm taking you've got some complaints went [laughter] out. I've heard a few complaints out. >> Yeah. And and unfortunately, I think everybody in this room understands it's
not the finest quinny's fault. It's not >> the select board's fault. It's not the assessor's fault. We all do things based upon what the state says. Yeah. >> We have to do. >> And so assessments went up in town this year on an average of about 9%. And this was pretty clear. We we shared that with
everybody um based upon sales. But because Blford had such a small number of sales, you have to do that over a number of years and your assessment this year is based on your value of your house last year because of the wage tax. >> Yeah.
>> So do has to approve what we say is the average price house whatever and then do has to look at all the revenue and all what we have to raise and then they set the tax rate. So as an assessor we don't have much choice. as a finance
community, you don't have a whole lot of choice. Realistically, the select have a choice. But when people suddenly come out and they say, you know, they vote overwhelming to spend $200,000 in October for a committee, not thinking about that $200,000 is
going to cost them 75 cents on their tax rate. But none of us have a choice. If the town votes it, we have to raise approval. So just I think you need to understand that you you are working with all the
town people or all the town councils and committees and they always do ask some very good questions about why do we really need to spend x number of dollars on xz but in the end it's the time being that makes that decision to move.
>> I guess the schedule is going to start to get busy correct for finance. So, I just want to make sure that you're able to I don't know. Are you pushing afternoons, evenings? Is that >> We haven't said it yet. >> Okay. Um I encourage us to be flexible.
>> Yeah. I'm retired. I can do anything. Sarah's going to try and work her best. Working still have as much flexibility. Are you >> Yeah. >> Okay. So, what kind of availability I have available.
>> Okay, that's you too. Yeah. So although we still have to meet them with the department head and I don't know that they'd be willing to night. So work that through. >> We've already made that schedule. So
>> I thought Yeah. Is it night time? >> It is. Yeah. Sarah because I knew that Sarah had her work schedule. >> Okay. I'm sorry. I didn't >> No, no, that's okay. The only one there's only one that can't make it um after 4:30. It's a 3:00 and off the top of my head, I can't remember who it was,
but everybody else will be um after and the budget hearings start next week. They go Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday. >> Well, you set up the time for >> Yep. So, uh I sent out everything. They
start they start at the freshman starts at 4:15 except for the exception of the three o'clock I forget that was that needed to come may have been Jason building inspector. Um and so the smaller boards of committees it's usually 15 minutes. The larger
departments get about a half hour but we don't rush anybody. You know if there's capital things that we need to talk about or issues that need to be clarified the schedules are to set up that. But as far as your independent meetings, you
guys as a finance committee, that's decide that >> and I'm gonna help but not really be making decisions or anything like that just to be able to say, "Oh, this is what they said last year." Yes. So, we have that.
>> Um, the other thing to just to make note of is that it's really important that all three show up all the time because otherwise it becomes is really there. I think you're supposed to have like five >> five and you know so you always have
backup in case someone can't come. So this it's very significant to this team that all three show up every time otherwise decisions can't be made. >> All right. So, >> so, so the meetings that start next
week, >> what days are they? >> Individually >> that be a problem for me because I'm not sure if next week we have um staff meetings. >> Oh, the day. Yeah, our extended day um
is until um 4:45. So that >> Do you have it there? I know you >> I don't know my schedule. >> Yeah. So it starts at 4:15 on Monday and goes until 5:45. Oh, but that one was
and then 5:30 the next day, 3 to 5:30 at 4:15 to 5:30. So that one of those days might be difficult for you with late day. >> Yeah. >> I'm I'm not sure. >> Is it one of the days?
>> Yes. Tuesday. >> Well, there's no reason why they can't do it without you, but they can't they can't really make a decision with them. So, it's better that you guys talk about it afterwards. >> Absolutely. Yeah. I mean, Sarah, right? >> Yeah. Sarah and I meet.
>> Yeah. with part afterwards only >> but also what happens sometimes is like out of the blue we may be in a situation we need to transfer money out of the reserve or something like that and that's when we need to have all three
guys in that kind of thing >> okay >> right >> just just a quick question probably an oversight on your part you're not working for chicken anymore you only Okay. >> Right. >> Oh, yeah. To say present. I was like,
"Wait a minute. How is she?" >> I'm sorry. You know, that was just an old resume. I couldn't find my an updated one. So, I just like typed in some extra stuff. It wasn't even the right like I figure out how to format
the new one to the new >> No worries. Not my best effort, but I tried. But you're mounted rental, so you should be good with numbers, right? >> Right. >> How's your Excel? [laughter] >> Um,
not great. >> All right. Is there a motion? >> Is there a motion? >> The chair? >> Yes. >> Okay. >> Technically, this isn't even your meeting. >> It's all yours. So any other questions?
>> No. No. >> So this one you want to make a motion? >> Oh, and we pointing here for how long? >> That was my question. >> I did three years. >> You did three years. >> Started today.
Are you willing to uh you know commit yourself to three years of being a bad guy? >> If he wasn't so [laughter] the bad guys change all the time. At one point it be the finance meeting. Now it's the assessors. >> Later on I'll be the moderator of the
select board. >> It's always the select board. Come on now. [laughter] >> All right. >> All right. I I'll start that answer then when people ask me about the tax break. I said just just talk. >> I'm already getting calls. Thank you very much. >> I got to change my phone number.
>> You just got to know the right answers. So, is there a motion to appoint Allison for three years to buy me? >> Is there a second? >> Yes, I >> is there any further? >> Pardon? >> Yeah, that's the next step. his line.
>> Yeah, >> but technically you're not supposed to discuss anything until after you make the motion. >> That's true. >> So >> So is there any more discussion on the on the motion? >> And if there is none, then all in favors, please signify by saying I.
>> Saying I Okay. >> All right. I All right. Congratulations. >> [laughter] >> send you an email tonight. It's going to have all the budget stuff that I send out today to everybody else. It's going to look very overwhelming. Don't worry,
it's it's not um we'll we'll we'll go over it together. >> Okay. Right. >> And then >> yeah, >> um I'll have you guys sign Deb and Sarah sign the
There's a signature there. >> All right. Who next? Oh, Joanne, you've got mileage rate increase. >> Yeah. I don't know why I didn't just write it down. I wrote it for you.
>> 70 to 725, I think. Is that on there? >> Okay. >> Thank you. >> That's from the state. And I'll make sure Kelly knows about it. >> Excellent. Thank you. >> Thank you. That's fine. Yeah, I'll do it tonight. All
right. All right. So, next up on our agenda. >> All right. Next up, we have um update on the budget process which I believe they already covered. So >> I don't know. >> So we're gonna go right
under. >> Yeah. And we just Yeah, we got this. All right. Um, we got administrator, so we're skipping to public comment and I know we have
historical. Would you want to um to listen about General Knox? >> Do do a very brief history lesson. For those of you who weren't around 50 years ago, at this very time, Blanchard was very busy getting ready for Oxtra uh
arrival of of really wonderful program we have here. This is one of 16 broadsides which we have started back in April of 1975 and we went right straight through till
the actual fourth of July and then the the signing of the duct independence. This this uh is the January one talked about uh Knox coming in here just to give you an idea of the enthusiasm
portraits that we saw as a community. Uh I just that says uh here General Knox and his band of cannon hauling men and beasts will arrive in Bford weather permitting on uh the 13th of January at
2 p.m. And he goes on to talk about all of the different things that were organized here in town uh for it. Uh most of the the trackers were put up for private owners. They had a big banquet down at the town hall and and then the
square dance afterwards. So really it was a major big big event and everybody was really excited about it was a wonderful thing to think. So that was that was 50 years ago post to day today. >> [clears throat]
>> And right now, state of New York is finishing up a wonderful reenactment from Fort Ticonderoga all the way down to the border on the 10th. Uh they will be
passing their [clears throat] train over to uh uh to us to to to be in charge of in in in Great Bington. And what's going to happen? Uh, the state of Massachusetts decided to go a
whole different route this time around and not have a re-enact. Uh, they said all communities should go to town and celebrate as best they can and the way they want and and uh that's what what
they said. And so when that came down to us, we said, "Here we are, the historical society. We really would love to do what we can to help make people realize that Blanchford was a really important uh figure in the
whole process of this this uh whole event. And it really was pretty pretty amazing um what happened uh many of you or most of you if not all of you uh were involved with the uh [clears throat] ghost walk uh that we had uh and
incredibly successful. People really loved it. whatever. That same group led by Jane Roman over here and her troops said, "Hey, this is an opportunity for us to jump in and really do our thing." And they did a lot of research, wrote
scripts, put together a really wonderful little it's it's less than two hours long. Uh very little little program and and really all excited. and Jane took the she I mean she she's I'm disturbed but want to have a a chat with you in a minute but and I believe actually Peter
actually got over to New York State and viewed some of the activities that were going on over there in terms of how seriously New York took it. Uh Massachusetts is sort of we've had varying amounts in different different places. What's going to happen with the
the sleds when they get to Great Bington? They're going to be loaded on a truck and taken down to Springfield or Springfield and the armory to do their thing there. And they're not they're not there's no reenactment kind of thing here. We really thought we're going to
try to give the spirit of of our town uh a a big boost. I think that the amount of of uh goodwill that we will create among those who really appreciate the fact that this is an really an important event. uh will
will really gain a great deal from it. And with that, let me turn it over to Jane because she's she is a the person that is really >> Okay, I just wanted to update you on this event. This is a poster. I don't know if you've seen it. It's like everywhere, the banners and whatnot. Uh
so, it's a cannon salute. We actually have um a cannons coming, pre-revolutionary war, and we've got men in uniform and everything. and we're going to be shooting off three rounds up there, but that's going to conclude the event. Um, and we're also have two
bonfires going. So, the reason I'm here is because >> And you that's all approved by the fire department. >> That's been approved. I've been with Adam. We got the cannon permit. You know, we we've done all of that. >> I we just had our we just met with the
fairground and, you know, we've worked all where were where the stage is. We've got the benches out. We're pulling the benches out. It's open air and it looks like it's going to be a good day. Uh overcast, but you know, 40 43 degrees, which is good. >> Y
>> um and then we have this performance um with a bunch of Bamford people uh from all age groups um participating. We've got General Knox, we got Solomon Brown who's like gonna put um Lamford on the map in a big way. and uh because
he's the citizen that really saved the day. Um and then we have other people we brought back in Jethro Jones. I don't know you know the DAR. >> Yeah, >> the he's coming back in. Um he's going to do the canon salute because Knox gave
him an honorable discharge at West Point >> and you know so we've really you know brought all the pieces together. So, um, we've got it's also free event with donuts, hot chocolate, and hot cider, which was a winning formula over at Ghostwalk. [snorts] So, uh, we're doing
that. So, I just wanted to make sure that you're aware of what we're doing. We went ahead and got, um, insurance, event liability insurance for one one day. Uh so we're doing that and um so that's done but we really need I need
assistance uh from the town with the highway department uh because we've got a lot of people we could have we don't know at with ghostwalk we thought 40 and 135 showed up just giving you an idea of the
appetite for history and people wanting to know about their own town and what happened. So, um, with that said, that's why I'm here tonight because I need help from the highway department. >> Okay. >> And, um, so >> you're looking for plowing and sanding. >> Plowing and sanding.
>> Now, did did is the fairground okay with the highway department doing this? >> Yes. Oh, yeah. Absolutely. >> Okay. No, I just want to make sure that all the, >> you know, other other question I would have is is this need for event insurance
for a two-hour event. It's the first time I've ever had to I put on many many events up at the White Church and we've never had invent >> Yeah. But this this is private property private property.
>> So is the So is the event put on benefit the white church, >> right? What are your thoughts on plowing and sanding at um the fairgrounds? >> Uh one truck put down some sand and you
know chip. >> Okay. >> Basically just to make sure that no one's slipping, no one's, you know, sliding around on ice. >> Yeah. >> Who knows what's going to happen. It's going to warm up, might get cold, everything that melts could freeze over. So >> I think it'd be smart just so we don't
have to have Hilltown Ambulance coming up there multiple times, you know. Okay. >> And the fire will be there, too. >> Already. >> So, you're ready to do that on the morning of? >> Yeah. I don't I don't believe I need a whole crew. I I can handle that myself. >> Okay.
>> Now, you have uh >> clear area for parking. >> Yep. We've completely cleared the area. We've met We've got the logistics down to uh >> Yeah. All on the east side of the the
horse ring is all going to be open and okay and it's all open now. That looks great. >> Yeah. Uh we really marked it all up. You know, we have cones every place. We know where we're packing everyone >> going to be there taking care of that and the two hours that people are there
if they are in desperate need they will be taken care of in that department. >> So that arrives on Friday and leaves on Monday. >> Yeah. TJ, you said it's an event put on by the historic society at the fairgrounds, but it's really a townwide
event, but it's still private property. >> That That's why you have to have >> I'm not arguing the insurance. I don't I was the one that got it. So, >> yeah, we're fine. >> Yeah, we're fine. >> Um >> Um do you have the fairgrounds turning or the water department turning the
water on for you guys? There's no water that's going to be out. >> No water. Okay. So, but you have bathroom facilities. >> Yeah, we have a porta body. >> A port of body. >> Then the food truck um from the general Bford country store, the the doughnut truck. >> Yeah,
>> they're pulling that out. So, that's going to be running and they're going to be, you know, hot cider and they're going to be doing all of that. But I hope you all come for I think it's going to be a good event and like I say the state's been really behind us big way because we're one of the few small towns
doing a big thing. >> I I would read one last little paragraph in here with with with among the the approximate 35 truckers uh back in 50 years ago. Uh
the the there are two that are local. my my brother Jeff and and Josh Yosh Toddell uh were uh uh there and and the town then decided that because of they were so impressed with them that they would give each of them 50 bucks to help
pay for their costumes. >> And so the town was behind it and and uh their the potential need potential for you know waving uh different kinds of things. they were very much in in in favor of or
whatever. So I I I I still am a little confused about uh the fact that this is uh a town event. I mean when we we have have uh uh events at the historical society. We're not raising money with
them. Everybody's free. It's just we're not a fundraising thing but and it's a private deal. >> Well, you have to talk to the state because they're going to make the regulations. for the fair wait for the fair and just for the fair. Yeah. Okay.
>> So, let's uh let's continue. I just have the special event um form >> application for you to fill out. Typically, it's done two weeks in advance. Um and typically we do we there's a $25 fee, but I would make a motion to wave the fee for the Okay.
>> Um second >> discussion. All in favor? [laughter] Hi. Hi. >> Um, okay. So, if you don't mind just filling this out for us um and then turning it in just so that we have that file >> and then should we alert the police?
>> Yes, that was my other question if you haven't already. >> I I went and spoke to them, but I have to now send an email to >> to the chief. Yeah. Yeah. Okay, that would be great. >> Do you want a copy of this? >> If you have it, you're all set. >> Okay. One more thing I've I uh have been
in touch or by email and uh phone with the supervisor of the Springfield Armory and um said please include us in your if you look in the paper there our name is not there >> and invited her up so we'll see what happens.
>> Great thank you. Well wish >> yeah thank you guys. >> You're welcome. >> Well thank you for your research they did into writing the scripts is pretty amazing. I'm >> sure lot >> I'm sorry I can make it I'll be track
but I look forward to hear >> Well, thank you for doing it. >> Yeah, we're going to be filming it. >> Oh, cool. >> Good. >> It'll be on the news. >> It will be on [clears throat] Some people can't come and they want to see the full production. So, we're going to shoot it and then we
>> have a slideshow down at Society for anybody who wants to see 50 years ago. for what all our our thing. >> Yeah, we're doing um the 50-y year anniversary of the reenactment of Blandford and we have this most incredible footage that a woman uh dug
out. What was her name? >> This was the Montavani right the the granddaughter of of of Montavani Paul and Montavani took the pictures and it's coming up the hill. This is a a movie coming up the hill for
notice right at at the historical society and you see that all the light. >> We're trying to get anyone any reenactors, anyone who witnessed it, anyone who's interested to come on by after >> the smoke clears. Yeah. [laughter]
>> Love it. Well, thank you guys. >> Thank you. >> Thanks. >> All right, we were going back. Is there any more public comment and stuff? Um, we're back to Christina, town administrator skipped you. >> That's okay. >> Um, so we kind of talked about how I've
now distributed I organized everything that was sent to me for every department. Organized it all, distributed it to everyone. I will send Allison a copy tonight before I leave so that she can take a look at it. Um, I did a little just precursor review of
everything that I looked at. >> Yes, sir. The budget hearings start as we had said on Monday. >> So we go from there. >> Are you missing any still? I know I saw there were notes that someone wanted level funding. >> So Marget requested to level funded
but I have printed out everything by 26 so that when we do sit down we take a look and see like >> what she spend, what didn't she spend. Yeah. >> There's also grants. Um, I noticed that a lot of departments did not include anything about their grants or their
loans or or anything like that. Um, another department, who was it? Uh, >> can't remember. Oh, um, Peter, he said, I think it's level fund. I'll take a look closer to the end of the year.
That's not really how that works. Um, so but the budget hearings are beginning next week. I reached out to Kelly today. She asked, you know, how do we typically do it? Should it be one spreadsheet, blah, blah, blah. I asked her if she could provide what she's used to doing,
what she thinks works best, and we'll look at what we normally do with the one spreadsheet and it's a separate tab. So, if she has a different way of doing it, so we'll take a look at that. Um, I submitted the quarterly report for the hazard mitigation plan grant. Um, and I
think you guys all know that I have created and then sent around and posted the um, internal document for our inclement weather policy. >> Yes. >> So, everybody's aware of that now. >> Great. >> Um, Cara, this came addressed to you.
It's from PBPC. I think that they're looking for a volunteer. No, thank you. Um, I don't know. It does say it's for Cara. And then would this be you or would this be Jason?
>> Jason. >> Yes, it's clear to me. It's during the week at 10 o'clock. What do they think? What is it? >> They think people don't work. Um, it is for a metropolitan planning organization.
Um, they're looking to recruit members to serve uh they approve all federally funded road, bridge, and other major infrastructures. >> I don't know. It start. And at the bottom, it says something about a memorandum of understanding. So, I just wasn't sure if this is something that
you guys had entered into before and had a representative and they're looking for >> It says any chief locally elected official, mayor, select board chair, town council president is welcome to be considered as the member. Yeah, only if we want to be considered. I would have zero knowledge to be helpful with that.
Can I just put it in the circular file? >> Got it. contact with [laughter] it. Um, and then we got a just a thing in the mail from the Census Bureau, and I wasn't exactly sure who this is going to go to, but it's going to go to Jason. They're looking for a report of building
or zoning permits issued for new privately owned housing units. So, I have this to Jason. And then the contract form that I signed today, I will get back to um the state for the water department stuff. and I sent over all of the contracts for the
board of health's grants they got for the compactor >> and the PH. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Um we don't uh Ray, do you want to um come on down here?
>> How's it going? on you. >> Huh? >> Oh, it's a little small. >> Well, it's warm. >> It is warm. >> I was prepared that the heat wouldn't be on, so left my gloves in the truck. >> Um, what what do you need from us?
>> I was just seeing I know I mentioned uh I think two weeks ago on the 15th about another grant that I wanted them to sum up. need you guys send up signing the approval for me so I can get this process before Friday. >> Got all my ducks in the row and
information that I need uh to get the application filled out and submitted to through grant central. So on top of getting the budget taken care of and everything else I had going on in the shop, now I'm done with that. So I wanted to see if you guys could end up
signing this for me. So you get this process. >> And that one was for support provider. >> This is for Colbert's a Colbert grant. It is a two-phase grant that DOT has put
out. The first phase is $150,000 that do pays directly to a design team that is approved by them and they come up with the plans, the engineering for the process of the construction of
the replacement of the culvert which would be on Julius Hall is what I'm shooting for. >> Okay. And so the second phase is the only >> second phase is 150 or one million up to $1 million that
the grant covers for the construction. >> No chapter 90, right? >> Exactly. >> Um unless we want to end up running it on our own and doing procurement on our own, but no, let's not do that. So,
um, this cover is one of the red line. Well, it's one that needed attention that PVPC ended up, uh, outlining in the Bible that they gave us >> for the culvert pipes in town.
And I see it as being a very important one to get taken care of because if we could end up paving Julius Hall Road up until the end for the residents on that road, I wouldn't have to be sending a truck out to Beach Hill
Road with S and Chip anymore. >> I could send one truck out, have that whole section done. There's no other dirt roads on that section of that road. And we there is you know two steep hills on that road. So for safety too it would
be a benefit honestly. So now the 9th it's due during the winter of 26 is when they're going to end up uh awarding the grants. So it's worth putting it in just see if we can get it. If we can't get it then okay. You know
at least we we tried. >> So that's uh >> okay. want to try catching you on that between everything else I was asking today. So, thank you for doing that. >> Yeah, thank you. >> Any other questions for me?
>> No, >> no, roads look good. I know you guys were out there today and it's looking bad on Wednesday in front. >> Yeah, it's Oh, jeez. It >> seems like it's going to rain and then it's going to freeze and if it's going
to be cold, let it just be cold. So, you're saying I'm gonna have a delight? No. >> Bford. >> All right. >> You never know what's going to end up happening out there. >> Why did they take today off, Carol? The
schools. >> It Well, only Springfield because we have professional development tomorrow. So, the kids aren't actually getting back until Wednesday. >> I don't know why they didn't just do the professional develop school. >> Oh, Gateway, too. >> No, he doesn't go to Gateway. We go to Westfield.
>> Oh, I have no idea why. It doesn't make sense. We've had weird. It's been the longest vacation. >> I'm like, do I remember their names? I don't know. See when we get back tomorrow. >> All right. Thank you, Ray. >> Thank you. >> I think we're good. We don't You want to have anything else?
>> Okay. Seven. Oh, sorry. Go ahead, Mary. Could all could an announcement go out please to all the departments to send their information for the annual town report by February 9 to town clerk of
town of Blandford electric uh electronic version 250 words is fine. >> So are the town clerk sending that announcement out? >> Um I Christina has a list. She sent the
list out on the budget and I did speak to her and ask her if she could use that same list to send out the request for town reports. >> I think you can just do a reply all, Mary, and then use that. >> Can I use a reply all? >> Do a reply all and just uh delete her
email and then you Yeah. And you can use it. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Yep. >> I always look forward to the town reports. Those are fun. Mary will bother me last minute to write it done. All right. >> Yeah.
712 712 right before the speaks again very much. >> So TJ, you have the right answer for all these people talk. No, move out. I
checked with Jackie before I responded and we were we came up >> we came up with a group answer >> but I saw that people were complaining on like a Westfield >> stuff. I responded in a bit. Well, just in general, towns
around here are complaint I think about taxes going up. has a lot to do with the set.